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Metropolitan Public Defender Services

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Fun & autonomous, but a bit of a dead-end - Investigator Metropolitan Public Defender Services Employee Review

4.0
Dec 28, 2017
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

You get to do variable and pretty interesting casework; sometimes get into some crazy, but rarely dangerous situations. Caseloads are usually quite manageable with some peaks and valleys, but nothing you can't handle. Super autonomous, make your own schedule around the core hours (at least in the Multnomah County office). Union rep'd so very secure job. You get some good basic investigation experience, and they will pay for your professional license. Good place to coast to retirement if you are not super career-minded or care about making really good $.

Cons

The job can be a bit of a dead-end, as there is very little room for internal promotion, and you will only ever qualify for most other investigation jobs that are equal or below the position, with most upper-end investigation jobs out of reach unless you already have special outside skills (finance, social work, LE, etc.). There is some tension among staff. Attorneys will treat you a bit like a minion, rather than a fellow professional. Some attorneys can be very difficult to work with.

Explore other reviews about Metropolitan Public Defender Services

5.0
Feb 26, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Hard working advocates, supportive atmosphere, amazing case managers/investigators/legal assistants, interesting clients!

Cons

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office aggressively charges crimes of poverty, so a significant percentage of misdemeanor work involves cases that reasonable or progressive prosecutors would never consider charging. Waste of time and resources.

4.0
Sep 8, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Trial experience, collegiality, caseload management getting better

Cons

High turnover, lack of diversity (although common for Oregon in general)

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