An investigative assistant is an entry-level position in law enforcement or legal professions that requires college-level courses in criminal justice or a related field. They provide support with routine investigations, research and locate information, and may be required to work varying shifts and schedules.
An investigative assistant is an entry-level position held by individuals working in law enforcement or the legal professions. Persons in this position are not sworn peace officers and cannot enforce search warrants, possession of firearms, or arrests. While a four-year degree is not required to become an investigative assistant, you must at least complete college-level courses in criminal justice or a related field of law enforcement. In addition, training and work experience in legal procedure and criminal justice may be required if you have no formal education beyond high school graduation or equivalent. If you want to become an investigative assistant, you must be able to understand and apply laws, use computerized systems to locate individuals, and fill out reports that can be used in court.
Before becoming an investigative assistant, it can be very helpful to acquire administrative skills. These skills can be gained by working in a support role within a law enforcement agency or investigative firm. It is advisable to get as much exposure to the field as possible by becoming familiar with civil and criminal division investigation procedures. Working in a legal environment will also help you learn the skills you need to be able to effectively complete a range of investigative tasks. When working in the field, you must be able to provide support to government organizations and law enforcement agencies, and even as a new assistant, you can be expected to be involved in investigative processes.
Once you’ve completed college courses and gained the experience you need to become a research assistant, you’ll be ready to apply for jobs in the field. Law enforcement agencies, government agencies and private legal professionals use the services of investigative assistants. You should contact agencies in your region for information about employment opportunities. Depending on the agency or organization, you may be required to undergo a lengthy interview process, a thorough background check, and drug testing.
Investigation assistants also provide support with routine investigations; you will need to be able to research and locate information from a variety of sources. An investigative assistant’s duties may also include delivering legal documents, subpoenaing, and conducting surveillance. You must be able to communicate effectively, as you may be called upon to give court testimony to support written reports about your investigative activities.
In addition to meeting educational requirements and gaining the necessary experience, you should be prepared for two jobs with varying shifts and schedules when you become an investigative assistant. Law enforcement is a 24-hour job, and you may be required to work nights, days, weekends, and even holidays.
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