Investigator Intern Program
Free Tuition, On the Job Training, Practical Experience

The Investigator Intern Program, was implented in 1994 to provide the Office of the Public Defender with interns so that: community members have an opportunity to learn and train, free of charge, in the field of criminal investigation; clients are interviewed within 48 hours of arrest by a representative from the Public Defender's office; and, that comprehensive investigation information and materials are provided to the Assistant Public Defenders for preparing the clients defense.

The 150 hour training program, developed by Brandon A. Perron, is conducted at the Public Defender's Office in Stuart and in Ft. Pierce. The Program consists of classroom lecture and field work over a three to four month period. The majority of the training hours take place in the "field", and are eligible toward state licensing requirements.

Classroom lectures provide Interns with the tools and resources necessary to conduct a comprehensive investigation, which forms the field work portion of the Program. Field work is on-the-job training. Interns interview inmates in jail; review case files; locate and interview witnesses; examine, diagram, and photograph crime scenes; and, aggregate and document data and information which is the foundation for the analysis and synthesis of a criminal investigation.

How to Apply:
Applications may be made on-line by clicking here for the on-line application or by calling 1-800-465-5233.

Who Should Apply:

• Persons who are no younger than 18; and,
• Have a valid driver's licence, automobile insurance, and good driving record;
• Have no felony convictions; and,
• Are available a minimum of 15 hours per week for intern services between the hours of 8:30 A.M. and 5:30 P.M.

Prior to the beginning of the training period, applicants are interviewed by investigators. This allows both the investigator and the applicant to determine the suitability of the applicant to the demands and expectations of the Program.

Applicants must maintain total confidentiality, honesty, integrity and dedication to the missions of the 19th Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office.

Click here to read more on the history of how the program
was initially developed.