Investigative Assistant II \u2013 Academic InternAt — Orange County District Attorney\u2019s Office

This academic internship provides supervised investigative support experience within the Sexual Assault Unit of the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. Under general supervision, the intern will perform professional and pre-professional investigative support tasks that contribute to criminal case preparation and victim-centered justice processes.

Tasks:

• Assist with interviews of victims and witnesses under investigator supervision
• Conduct research to locate witnesses using approved databases and records
• Gather, organize, and analyze investigative information for case preparation
• Assist with preparation and service of subpoenas to non-hostile witnesses
• Support evidence documentation and chain-of-custody procedures
• Prepare investigative reports, summaries, and case-related documentation
• Assist with low-hazard field activities and investigative observations
• Act as a liaison between victims, witnesses, and county personnel under supervision
• Observe court proceedings and assist with case preparation as appropriate
(Clerical tasks are minimal and secondary to professional duties.)

Training:

• Initial orientation covering confidentiality, ethics, safety, and office procedures
• Job shadowing with experienced Investigative Assistants and Investigators
• Ongoing hands-on training in investigative techniques and documentation
• Regular supervisory check-ins and feedback sessions
• Exposure to multidisciplinary collaboration with attorneys, advocates, and law enforcement
• Guidance on trauma-informed practice and professional boundaries

Learning Outcome:

By the end of the internship, the student will be able to:
1. Apply trauma-informed and victim-centered practices when interacting with victims and witnesses.
2. Demonstrate foundational investigative skills including interviewing, documentation, and due diligence.
3. Analyze and organize investigative information to support criminal case preparation.
4. Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team, including investigators, attorneys, and allied professionals.
5. Develop professional communication, documentation, and ethical decision-making skills applicable to legal, social service, and investigative settings.