Investigator I

Under general supervision, an Investigator I investigates and reviews public, court and other party complaints or reports. In addition, an Investigator I determines what evidence is needed to support the allegations, collects evidence, and interviews witnesses to determine the appropriate course of action.

Investigator I's work with Investigator II's, III's, and attorneys to determine the means and approach of the investigation.

Investigator II

Under general direction, an Investigator Ii investigates and reviews routine, complex, or unique public, court and other party complaints.

Investigator II's work in tandem with other investigators as well as attorneys who serve as their legal advisors during the investigative process. An Investigator II may mentor and train an Investigator I; and may work under the direction of an Investigator III.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Investigator I is the entry-level classification in the Investigator classification series. Incumbents work under more direct supervision and are typically assigned to less complex cases. An incumbent is paired with an Investigator II or III who serves as his or her mentor and provides direction, guidance, and training. Investigator I’s report to a Supervising Attorney.

Investigator II is an experience, journey-level classification responsible for performing the full range of duties related to the investigation of complaints made against attorneys. Work is performed with considerable latitude and independent judgement.

the Investigator II classification is distinguished form the Investigator I classification by the incumbent's ability to independently investigate both routine and complex cases, and the capacity to serve as a mentor to Investigator I's. investigator II's typically report to a Supervising Attorney.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Investigator I d uties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Reviews complaints and makes determinations as to the appropriate courses of action under the guidance of an Investigator II, Investigator III, and/or Attorney.
• Prepares an investigative plan for each assigned case in conjunction with an attorney.
• Locates and interviews complaining witnesses, respondents, and other relevant parties, explaining the functions and limitations of the State Bar’s jurisdiction.
• Gathers and reviews evidence, orders court files, obtains insurance files, and issues subpoenas for bank and other business records.
• Reviews and analyzes evidence and assists in determining if there is evidence of violation of the State Bar Act and/or Rules of Professional Conduct or instance of unauthorized practice of law, and assists in making recommendations for further action.
• Drafts a report that discusses the evidence and determines which exhibits, list of witnesses, and documents to include.
• May appear as a witness in administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings.
• Interacts and cooperates with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
• Uses spreadsheets to compile information and analyze data.
• May perform a number of other similar or related duties which may not be specifically included within this position description, but which are consistent with the general level of the job and the responsibilities described.

Investigator II duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Reviews complaints and makes determinations as to the appropriate courses of action.
• Prepares an investigative plan for each assigned case in conjunction with an attorney.
• Locates and interviews complaining witnesses, respondents, and other relevant parties, explaining the functions and limitations of the State Bar’s jurisdiction.
• Gathers and reviews evidence, orders court files, obtains insurance files, and issues subpoenas for bank and other business records.
• Reviews and analyzes evidence for routine and complex cases, and determines if there is evidence of violation of the State Bar Act and/or Rules of Professional Conduct or instance of unauthorized practice of law, and makes recommendations for further action.
• Drafts a report that discusses the evidence and determines which exhibits, list of witnesses, and documents to include.
• Appears as a witness in administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings.
• Interacts and cooperates with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
• Uses spreadsheets to compile information and analyze data.
• Provides guidance to staff, and may mentor or train Investigator I's
• Participates in special projects or assignments, including providing training or making presentations.
• Performs a number of other similar or related duties which may not be specifically included within this position description, but which are consistent with the general level of the job and the responsibilities described.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge of:

Investigator I

• Techniques and methods of investigation.
• Rules of evidence and conduct of proceedings in trial and appellate courts in California (to be obtained within the introductory period).
• Concepts and methodology of witness interviewing and case management.
• Identification, preservation and presentation of evidence.
• Sources of information and methods used in locating persons.
• Problem identification, analysis, and evaluation.
• Modern office practices and procedures, including keyboarding and the use of standard computer software such as Microsoft Office and case management system applications.
• Effective writing and verbal presentation.
• The basic rules of vocabulary, grammar, spelling and punctuation.
• Business math for completing non-technical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.

Ability to:

Investigator I

• Plan, organize, and prioritize work to meet deadlines.
• Work on different phases of multiple investigations at the same time.
• Effectively identify and obtain necessary information through interviews using tact and diplomacy, while remaining calm and impartial.
• Establish and maintain effective and productive work relationships.
• Demonstrate effective writing and verbal presentation skills.
• Obtain and present material in oral and/or written form.
• Learn to organize and process large volumes of information, and review and analyze complex documents, including financial documents.
• Communicate clearly and effectively in person, by telephone and in writing.
• Maintain the confidentiality of State Bar cases, investigations, documents and, records.
• Deal effectively with persons of diverse behavior and temperament, to gain insight into their motivations and credibility.
• Travel by air and automobile.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:

Investigator I

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a field that develops the skills required for the functions and responsibilities of the position.

Investigator II

• Bachelor's degree in a field that develops skills related to investigation, or equivalent academic achievement.

Experience:

Investigator I

• Two (2) years’ experience in a position requiring writing, research, and analysis, preferably in an investigative environment.

Investigator II

• Four (4) years' experience in an investigative position.

Applicants who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be required to successfully complete the State Bar’s selection process for this classification.

License, Certificate, Registration Requirements:

• Must be bondable, have a valid California driver’s license, and have access to an automobile, as needed.
• Proof of automobile insurance coverage will be required at the time of employment.