ABOUT US: We represent indigent individuals convicted of felonies in Michigan. Our clients come from all over the state with a concentration in metro-Detroit. SADO believes strongly in human dignity and its potential as a force for change in the criminal legal system. We seek to provide every client with the quality defense that the constitution demands and that they deserve. We have several internal committees and projects aimed at being an active member of the community, including Michigan Department of Corrections Quality of Life, Project Reentry, and the Racial Justice Initiative. Our fifty-plus staff members form a community advocating for clients and a fairer criminal legal system. Visit www.sado.org to learn more.
POSITION DETAILS: The Investigator position is a full-time position based in Detroit (SADO employees are working from their home during the COVID-19 pandemic). The position reports to SADO’s Chief Investigator and works directly with SADO attorneys and team members.
An Investigator may be required to:
• Analyze the facts of a case and discuss strategies of defense with attorneys
• Evaluate available evidence and develop evidentiary leads
• Locate and interview witnesses, victims, defendants, and suspects
• Locate and contact available experts and arrange consultations
• Prepare expert and lay witnesses and clients for evidentiary hearings
• Create comprehensive reports of interview, research, and other results
• Arrange for subpoenas as necessary
• Assist attorneys at hearings with witness preparation
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Excellent inter-personal communication skills and mindfulness of what is needed to work across cultural differences of all kinds
• Commitment to indigent defense, public service, and racial equity
• Ability to memorialize the investigation
• 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 (the office reimburses for mileage and 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
BENEFITS: State employees benefits are comprehensive and include:
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401k plan with up to a 9% employer contribution
• 12 paid holidays
• 3 weeks of paid vacation in year one
• Paid sick time and, for eligible employees, paid parental leave
• Long-term disability insurance
• Flexible work hours
• Work from home options
• Paid training opportunities
• Casual dress
TO APPLY: 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 submitted by March 22, 2021 to:
Attn: Wendy Dealca (she/her)
Human Resources Manager
State Appellate Defender Office
3031 W. Grand Blvd., Suite 450
Detroit, MI 48202
Email: [email protected] Fax: 313-263-0042