The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Pennsylvania is accepting
applications for the position of Social Worker/Mitigation Specialist.
The Social Worker/Mitigation Specialist is a key member of the defense team who
reviews evidence, develops theories of defense and mitigation, locates and interviews
witnesses for fact and mitigation investigation, identifies experts, visits crime scenes,
assists in preparation for trial and other court hearings, and testifies in court when
required.
This role also gathers, reviews, and analyzes records; serves subpoenas; and works
with attorneys to interview clients, document clients’ social history, and prepare
mitigation summaries for plea negotiation and sentencing.
The Social Worker/Mitigation Specialist must be able to establish and maintain good
working relationships with individuals and agencies (including prisons), provide oral
and written reports, and use technology including software, cameras, and other
equipment. This role is an essential part of providing equal justice to individuals unable
to afford counsel in federal cases. The ideal candidate brings strong initiative, sound
judgment, discretion, and a deep commitment to client-centered advocacy.
This position will primarily support the Trial Unit and the Appeals/Non-Capital Habeas
Unit in our Pittsburgh office with additional support provided to cases in the Erie and
Johnstown offices as needed.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Investigator:
• Work on interdisciplinary defense teams to investigate allegations of federal criminal conduct and prepare written mitigation materials for court.
• Conduct assessments, develop service plans, and provide client centered support, referrals, crisis intervention and case management assistance.
• Together with paralegals and investigators, obtain and review records including those related to
o Prior court and prison history
o Social and family history
o Neighborhoods and schools
o Medical and mental health treatment
o Other relevant subjects impacting the client’s life
• Locate and conduct witness interviews to assist the attorney in advocating for pretrial release.
• Develop mitigating circumstances in the client’s life to assist at trial or sentencing.
• Develop, assess, and maintain referral and service resources with service providers and experts.
• Attend relevant trainings and conferences, and develop training programs for the FPD staff.