Investigator II

Office of Professional Support & Client Protection

Annual Salary Range: $89,772 - $119,694

Non- Exempt / Union Represented

This position allows for up to four days of remote work per week

About the Office

The Office of Professional Support & Client Protection includes 1) The Client Security Fund (CSF), which reimburses those who have lost money or property due to theft or dishonest conduct by a California attorney; 2) Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP), which provides support to law students, State Bar applicants, and current and former attorneys who require monitoring for substance use and behavioral health issues 3)  The Office of Case Management and Supervision, which monitors disciplined attorneys who must comply with conditions pursuant to a probation or reproval matter and; 4) The statewide Mandatory Fee Arbitration Program, which provides avenues for alternative dispute resolution of attorney‐client fee disputes. 

About the Position

Client Security Fund Investigator II investigates and reviews routine, complex, or unique applications for reimbursement. In addition, the Investigator II determines what evidence is needed to support or refute the application, collects evidence, and interviews witnesses to determine the appropriate course of action.

Investigators II’s work in tandem with CSF 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.

Definition

Under general direction, an Investigator II investigates and reviews routine, complex, or unique public, court, and other party complaints. In addition, the Investigator II determines what evidence is needed to support the allegations, collects evidence, and interviews witnesses to determine the appropriate course of action. Investigators 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

This is an experienced, 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 use of independent judgment.

The Investigator II classification is distinguished from 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

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 on 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:

• Rules of evidence and conduct of proceedings in trial and appellate courts in California.
• Advanced techniques and methods of investigation.
• Rules of procedure in multiple areas of law, such as family, bankruptcy, personal injury, criminal, and administrative, as they pertain to the review and investigation of complaints within the jurisdiction