These positions entail gathering information and evidence to support the defense in criminal cases where the defendant cannot afford legal representation. Responsibilities include interviewing witnesses, analyzing crime scenes, collecting records, and performing background checks. An example is an individual gathering witness statements to challenge the prosecution’s timeline of events.
The role is crucial for ensuring a fair legal process and protecting the rights of the accused. By independently investigating the circumstances of a case, these professionals contribute to a more balanced presentation of evidence in court. Historically, the need for this role arose from the recognition that effective legal representation requires resources for thorough investigation, resources often unavailable to indigent defendants.
