Description
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc. is seeking a Chief Investigator in our Criminal Defense Unit (CDU).
The Chief Investigator plays a critical role in ensuring high-quality criminal defense representation by overseeing all investigative work related to criminal cases, supervising investigative staff, and collaborating closely with attorneys and other support personnel.
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo seeks to provide access to justice and due process to the most vulnerable individuals, children and families in the Western New York Community through quality, client-centered and holistic legal representation.
Why Join Us?
Competitive Pay: Earn a salary ranging from $73,000 to $107,000, commensurate with your experience.
Comprehensive Benefits Package:
o Medical, dental, and vision benefits for you and your dependents.
o Generous vacation, personal, and sick time.
o Paid parenthood leave plan o 401(k) retirement plan.
o Long-term disability insurance, short-term disability insurance, supplemental term life insurance, and other voluntary insurance offerings.
o Parking expense reimbursement plan, transit plan, and a flexible spending account.
Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness: Eligible for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program and the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation Loan Forgiveness Program.
Key Responsibilities:
Supervise a team of investigators, assigning cases, reviewing work, and providing mentorship and performance evaluations.
Oversee and conduct complex investigations in support of the defense in felony and misdemeanor cases, including crime scene analysis, witness interviews, evidence gathering, and surveillance.
Ensure compliance with all legal and ethical guidelines in investigative procedures. Work collaboratively with attorneys to develop case strategies and prepare for trial.
Testify in procedural, pretrial hearings and trials.
Maintain case documentation, reports, and evidence records with strict confidentiality and accuracy.
Develop and implement training programs for investigative staff.
Establish relationships with law enforcement agencies, forensic experts, and other relevant entities.
Employment Standards:
Minimum of 10 years of investigative experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory leadership role preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or related field (or an equivalent combination of training and experience).
Extensive knowledge of criminal law, investigative procedures, and evidence handling.
Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities under pressure.
Possession of a valid New York State Driver's License and access to a registered, insured vehicle available for use during working hours.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in criminal defense investigation is strongly preferred.
Certification from a recognized investigative organization (e.g., Certified Criminal Defense Investigator).
Prior experience in a Public Defender's Office or similar indigent defense setting.
Bilingual abilities are a plus.
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc. values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from minorities, females, disabled individuals, veterans, and individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
How to Apply / Contact
Please send your cover letter, resume, and at least three (3) references to [email protected] or mail them to:
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Inc.
Attention: Human Resources
290 Main Street, Suite 400 Buffalo, NY 14202
Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.
