Job Description

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11/9/2025 (7:00 PM EST)
req74322
Public Advocate Investigator II
Pay Grade
13
Salary
$3,179.34 - $4,767.60 Monthly
Employment Type
EXECUTIVE BRANCH | FULL TIME | ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY | 18A | 37.5 HR/WK

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Hiring Agency
Justice & Public Safety Cabinet | Department of Public Advocacy
Location
2202 Commerce Parkway, Suite D


LaGrange, KY 40031 USA
Description
The Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) is nationally recognized as a model state-wide public defender system with an exceptional training and education program. Our defense teams ensure the criminal justice process is fair, results are just, and individual liberties are protected.



The LaGrange Adult Post-Conviction Branch is hiring a Public Advocate Investigator II. We represent indigent individuals who have been convicted of a criminal offense. The investigator works with a team of attorneys and an alternative sentencing worker to get excellent results for the client. The investigator works closely with the client, their families, and witnesses in the community to uncover the facts and details of the case. An ideal candidate exhibits empathy in interviews with clients and others, asks appropriate questions, writes accurate and detailed reports, and works closely with all members of the defense team. The position is based in Frankfort, but the investigator will be assigned to cases across the state.



The ideal candidate exhibits exceptional planning and organizational skills, is self-directed and is also comfortable working with their defense team which includes attorneys, other investigators, paralegals, and office administrative legal staff. This person must be able to complete high quality work under pressure, communicate well, and work with all kinds of people. We seek to hire persons who have demonstrated a desire to help the underprivileged and often the most vulnerable in their communities, and who understand it is a privilege to represent our clients and we do so on behalf of the people of Kentucky.



Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:Investigators assist attorneys representing clients by meeting with them in state facilities, locating and interviewing witnesses, locating, viewing and performing analysis of evidence, and serving subpoenas. Investigators prepare reports associated with witness interviews and the efforts in locating said witnesses. This includes comparing witness statements, developing alternative theories and following up on investigative leads. Much of the work of the investigator occurs outside of the office, and extensive travel is required. The investigator may be called as a witness and must be comfortable providing testimony in court.

Preferred Skills and Abilities:Attention to detail Excellent verbal and written communication skills Time management Teamwork Organizing skills

Reasons to work for us include:A 37.50 hour work week Paid Leave (Sick, Vacation, etc.) & Paid Holidays Training and Career Development Opportunities A variety of affordable health, dental and vision Insurance options including HRA, HSA and FSA options Life Insurance Retirement Wellness Incentive Programs Employee Discounts on electronics, health and wellness, retail, travel, events, entertainment, services and education Telecommunicating and flexible work schedules Minimum Requirements

EDUCATION:

High school graduate.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS:

Four years experience in law enforcement, general investigation or a related field of investigation. OR Two years of experience as a public advocate investigator.

Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE:

Additional education will substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.

Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION:

NONE

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.):

Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license prior to employment in this job classification. Must maintain any required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this job classification. Employing agency is responsible for ensuring employee possesses and maintains required licensure(s), certification(s) or other credentials.
Working Conditions
Interviews are often conducted in prisons, low-income housing and unfamiliar or confrontational settings. May work irregular hours due to nature of investigative work. Extensive travel is required.
Probationary Period
This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 6 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.
If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Kara Lewis at kara.lewis@ky.gov or 833-514-8984.
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D