Investigator

Investigator Position At Brooklyn Defender Services

Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS) seeks an Investigator to join the Investigation Unit in the Criminal Defense Practice in the Queens Office.

BDS is a public defense office representing low-income New Yorkers in criminal, family, immigration, and civil legal matters. For nearly 30 years, BDS has worked, in and out of court, to protect and uphold the rights of individuals and to change laws and systems that perpetuate injustice and inequality. Our legal expertise work with clients is focused on the intersections of these legal systems that disproportionately impact Black and Brown communities living in poverty.

BDS represents thousands of people each year who have diverse, complex, and multi-faceted legal needs. In addition to a zealous legal defense, our interdisciplinary teams of attorneys, social workers and advocates provide a wide range of legal and advocacy services, including for housing, public benefits, education, and employment. BDS staff work collaboratively and across disciplines to deliver high-quality legal services that serve the people we represent, their families and communities.

The Investigation Unit works closely with criminal defense attorneys to help uncover facts and witnesses necessary to provide a zealous defense and the best possible outcome in court.

Under the direct supervision of the Director of Investigations, Investigation Unit, Investigators help uncover information that supports providing high-quality representation to our clients.

Responsibilities

• Locate, interview, and take detailed statements from critical witnesses.
• Obtain and review video surveillance footage.
• Photograph and diagram crime scenes.
• Testify in court to introduce investigation findings.
• Serve subpoenas.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Position Information

This is a non-exempt, salaried position in the collective bargaining unit. The normal schedule is Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. The position is based at BDS's offices, and the courts located in Queens.

BDS determines salary on a pay scale based on education and experience. For this position there is a salary range of $62,113-$69,987 depending on the applicant's education and experience. BDS offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance and a 403(b) retirement plan. In order to support work / life balance and family-friendly policies, BDS has generous vacation, sick, holiday, family, and medical leave policies.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit a cover letter and resume on our online application portal. Please submit your application by November 7, 2025.

Brooklyn Defender Services is a proud equal opportunity employer committed to celebrating diversity and maintaining an equitable and inclusive work environment. We strongly encourage candidates?of all identities, expressions, orientations, disabilities, and experiences to apply. If you require an accommodation due to a disability or another reason, please contact the Managing Director, H.R., Christina Wallace, at cwallace @ bds.org.