Litigation Investigator

PURPOSE

Investigators will perform a wide variety of investigations of child abuse allegations made by the County of San Diego Department of Children and Family Services, (DCFS), in preparation of Juvenile Dependency Court defense cases. Position assists Attorneys to fulfill their mandate to provide zealous representation to the client by doing the requisite field work as needed on a case-by-case basis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Compile, analyze, and evaluate information to draw logical conclusions and make sound recommendations to attorneys and prepare clear, accurate, and detailed written and oral reports
• Communicate effectively with clients from different cultural backgrounds in a non-judgmental, diplomatic, and empathetic manner and assist in finding services
• Professionally respond during emotionally charged situations and interactions
• Conduct field investigations as assigned by attorneys such as home assessments, including but not limited to taking photographs, assess safety of home and surrounding areas
• Pro-actively track down and obtain legal documents through the court and other locations such as medical records, death records, family, criminal and probate case records
• Locate incarcerated parent clients and gather pertinent information for legal representation, and coordinate with attorneys to meet with clients incarcerated in jails, prisons, or clients held in court holding areas
• Prepare subpoenas for service, including, but not limited to medical records, documentary evidence, and witnesses
• Maintain proper record keeping, including timekeeping, case file records, JCATS entries and administrative records including time and attendance, mileage, expense reimbursement, and other records
• Communicate with local and county offices, international government agencies to obtain case information such as from the Mexican Consulate and Family Health Agency
• Assist attorneys to interview clients and subpoena potential witnesses, and as necessary interview family members interested in a permanency plan with the minor
• Arrange interviews and schedule court calls, including trial witnesses for hearings
• Translate for attorneys during client phone calls, intake, interviews, and correspondence

ESSENTIAL SKILLS

• Models a strong work ethic with a team player mindset that is open to feedback and constructive criticism.
• Conveys a positive attitude that provides leadership and problem-solving within the position to meet challenges.
• Ability to accomplish organizational goals and tasks within the time assigned to meet management requirements and litigation timelines
• Fosters coordination and collaboration with good conflict resolution
• Exhibits active listening skills when working with management and staff, and is non-judgmental

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCES

Education, training, or paid experience that demonstrates possession of knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the above-referenced Essential Functions and Essential Skills. Examples of qualifying education and experience include an Associate of Arts degree from an accredited college or university, or certification in a related field, or minimum of three (3) years of related paid employment experience.

· Interviewing and investigation methods and techniques

· Laws, regulations, and court procedures

· Principles of human behavior and family dynamics

· Child development and adolescence, parenting techniques, substance abuse causes and treatment of child abuse and family violence, and the effects of abuse on children

· Needs of individuals from diverse socio-economic and cultural and ethnic backgrounds

· Community and court resources and organizations

· Spanish fluency a plus

Verification that applicant has their own vehicle, the employee must have active and up-to-date liability insurance which must be presented on demand. A valid California class C driver’s license which must be maintained throughout employment, is required at time of appointment, or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel. Employees in this class may be required to use their own vehicle.

Must supply I-9 documentation for eligibility verification.

Required to work throughout Los Angeles County including high crime and potentially dangerous areas. Required to interview and subpoena potentially aggressive clients.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES

Physical activities include, but are not limited to, on a continuous basis: sitting at a desk and use of video monitor, standing for a short period of time in court or offices, repetitive motion and typing when using computer keyboard. Communicate through use of keyboard and written means and talking with staff and clients on the telephone. Hearing well enough to understand light speech. Intermittent twisting and reaching with some bending, stooping, or squatting, and lift up to 25 pounds. Considerable ambulation may be involved.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed or as logical assignment for the position.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $28.12 - $29.81 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Mileage reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• San Diego, CA 92108 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• San Diego, CA 92108: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $28 - $30