New Hampshire Public Defender works diligently to provide quality representation to indigent defendants accused of crimes in all state courts.
Investigators are responsible for obtaining a variety of records, visiting clients in jail, identifying, and interviewing witnesses, serving subpoenas, and preparing written reports and memoranda. Investigators analyze complex materials, strategize, and develop investigation plans independently or with a team. Additionally, investigators develop evidence for sentencing by identifying mental health, environmental, and social mitigating factors. Applicants must be able to meet all the requirements to obtain a NH Private Investigator's license.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
•Manage the cases assigned to them thoroughly and effectively.
•Promptly starts an investigation and meets deadlines.
•Write and keep accurate reports of work done on cases.
•Locate witnesses and clients, both in NH and out of state.
•Obtain various documents and records (e.g., medical, corrections, motor vehicle)
•Assist attorneys located and coordinate expert witnesses.
•Serve subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses.
•When required, testifies in court in a manner that ethically advances defense case.
Requirements
Education and Experience
•Bachelor’s degree required; extensive relevant experience may be considered to substitute education.
•Prior background in law, social work, reporting, SUD, or mental health treatment is highly desired.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
•Proficiency in using a variety of computer software applications, especially Microsoft Word and Excel.
•Poise, discretion, and a high level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation, as well as maintain effective working relationships within and outside the program.
•Attention to detail in composing, typing, and proofing materials.
•Excellent telephone and oral communication skills.
•Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to juggle multiple competing tasks and demands while establishing priorities and meeting deadlines.
Physical Requirements
Physical requirements include retrieving and distributing files, written documents, or office supplies weighing up to 30 pounds;
retrieving and replacing objects from shelves up to eight feet high; sitting and keyboarding for extended periods of time. Long periods of driving a vehicle throughout the state of New Hampshire is required for this position. Fine motor skills, including, but not limited to, using measuring tape, camera, and voice recording devices, are required. An unexpired, valid, driver’s license and a reliable, insured automobile are required for this position.
Salary to commensurate with experience.
The New Hampshire Public Defender was established in 1972 as a pilot project of New Hampshire Legal Assistance, and has existed as a stand-alone institution since 1985. Its sole purpose is to provide indigent defense services to citizens charged with crimes. The Program began with a single office in Concord. Over time, the Program opened satellite offices in other counties, and established administrative offices in its Merrimack County office, located in Concord, the state capital.
In 1981, the Public Defender, in collaboration with the Franklin Pierce Law Center (now the University of New Hampshire School of Law), started the Appellate Defender Program, which provides indigent defense services to defendants who appeal their convictions to the New Hampshire Supreme Court.
Today, the Public Defender is an independent, non-profit, corporation with offices in every county. The Program works diligently to provide quality representation in a cost-effective manner to indigent defendants accused of crimes in all state courts. In addition to its attorneys, the Public Defender employs legal assistants, investigators, support staff, and information technology specialists, all of whom are dedicated to its core mission of serving indigent citizens accused of crimes.
