During mitigation, legal teams have access to a number of resources that could drastically reduce a defendant’s sentence. One of the most valuable resources that can help change a criminal punishment is a mitigation investigator. These highly trained professionals can delve into the evidence and provide additional research to advocate for the defendant.
Choosing a mitigation investigator to handle your case is just as important as selecting the right attorney. There are several qualities that indicate whether or not an investigator is fit for the mitigation process, and should therefore be used to guide your selection.
At Harris Investigations Inc., we specialize in mitigation investigations, offering years of experience in this area. The following is a list of qualities that defendants and attorneys should look for in a mitigation investigator.
Experience
One of the most important things that you should look for in a mitigation investigator is a breadth of experience. Even if the service provider has completed extensive training prior to entering the field, there is nothing that compares to real world experience. Search for a mitigation investigator that has worked on similar cases, and understands the best strategies that can be used to reduce the sentence. We recommend looking for reviews from past clients to find out more about the quality of service, and what value the investigator may add to your case. Experience empowers investigators to manage their time well, and dedicate their resources to researching relevant case elements that will be of use to attorneys during mitigation. For example, investigating the defendant’s personal background and health status may in some cases shed light on their state of mind at the time the crime was committed. Therefore, it may be useful for a mitigation investigator to spend time inquiring about this element of the case as opposed to others.
Legal knowledge
Regardless of an investigator's skills and training, it is essential for them to have at least a basic understanding of legal proceedings in order to assist in your case. Knowing the details of the defendant’s sentence and on what grounds the individual is found guilty is an important first step in reducing punishment. James Harris of Harris Investigations Inc. has worked in several areas of the legal system as a police officer, and an investigator working on many high-profile cases. Harris is well-versed in the judicial system, and understands how mitigation is best achieved. The knowledge of an experienced investigator is an asset to the mitigation process.
Organization of information
A good mitigation investigator goes far beyond simply gathering information for the defendant. As a part of this service, a mitigation investigator should be skilled in organizing and indexing their findings in a compelling way that evokes empathy from the jury. Much of the mitigation process is about how information is presented and interpreted. Organizing factual evidence in a strategic manner may be the key to minimizing the defendant’s punishment. In all of his investigations, James Harris takes the time to compile information in a way that is most likely to persuade the jury in favor of the defendant. Attorneys can greatly benefit from working with a mitigation investigator that offers this skill by consulting with them on the case and asking for their suggestions. If you are looking into hiring a mitigation investigator to support your case, make sure they understand the importance of organizing and indexing their findings.
Hiring a mitigation investigator can transform the outcome of a criminal case, creating a better result for both attorneys and defendants. Contact Harris Investigations Inc. today to learn more about how a mitigation investigator can help you.