Join Michigan’s State Appellate Defender Office (SADO) as an Investigator working statewide to represent people as they appeal their felony convictions. We focus on our clients as people and actively work to challenge injustices and disparities in the criminal legal system based on race, class, ability, behavioral health, and other identifying characteristics and statuses. The position pays from $53,953 to $90,535, depending on experience. Our office follows a hybrid workplace model that mixes in-office and remote work to offer flexibility and support to staff. This position is for either our Lansing or Detroit office.
Job Responsibilities
Investigation can be the heart of a successful appeal. We are seeking a tenacious and creative person who is skilled at interviewing, researching, and communicating. Knowledge of the criminal legal system, however obtained, is a plus. A commitment to social justice is essential.
The Investigator will lead efforts to obtain and analyze the evidence needed to zealously defend our clients in their appeal process through client and witness interviews, record review and analysis, and many other avenues. Assignments range from single-task requests to ongoing multi-faceted projects, but always move toward holding police, prosecutors, and the system accountable.
SADO investigators advance a client’s appeal by engaging in the following duties, and more:
• Analyze the facts of a case and discuss strategies of defense with attorneys and defense team members
• Evaluate available evidence and develop evidentiary leads
• Locate and interview witnesses, complainants, defendants, and suspects
• Travel to, view, and analyze crime scenes
• Enter prisons and jails to visit clients and witnesses
• Locate, contact, and evaluate available experts and arrange consultations
• Prepare experts, lay witnesses and clients for evidentiary hearings
• Create comprehensive reports of interviews, research, and other results
• Arrange for and serve subpoenas as necessary
• Assist attorneys at hearings with witness preparation or by preparing questions
• Testify in court
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills and mindfulness of what is needed to work across cultural differences of all kinds
• A commitment to indigent defense, public service, and racial equity
• The ability to accurately and completely preserve the investigation with written memos and reports
• Good internet research and analysis skills
• Knowledge of the criminal legal system
• An ability to work flexible hours (some evenings, early mornings, and weekends)
• The ability and means to travel occasionally throughout the state; a valid driver’s license (the office reimburses for mileage and/or provides car rental for longer trips)
• The ability to visit and interview clients housed in correctional institutions
• Resilience in the face of difficult work and the ability to navigate difficult situations
• Prior investigation or related experience is a plus
• Specialized knowledge in forensic science, open source intelligence, digital forensics, and/or multiple languages or cultures is a plus
Those wishing to apply for the Investigator position should submit a cover letter and resume. Please include in your cover letter a discussion of your commitment to social justice. Successful applications will convey the applicant’s fit with the position as described and explain how your experiences make the position of Investigator a good fit for you.
Applications should be emailed by November 10, 2024, to [email protected] and include “Job ID 2024-20” in the subject line.
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
