Job Description of a Criminal Investigator

Criminal investigators are the minds behind each investigation. They can investigate a variety of crimes. It's a difficult and demanding occupation that requires lots of patience, hard work and determination.

Crime Scene

The crime scene is where it all took place. A good criminal investigator is extremely observant. He can study the entire scene, notice the smallest details and deduce what may have occurred and when. The crime scene is the first major lead in a case.

Forensics

The criminal investigator will submit evidence to the forensics department for closer investigation. After the test results come back, the investigator will consult with the forensics professional on whether or not the piece of evidence is pertinent.

Interrogation

The investigator must interview a people to gain insight and tips on the case. Often this begins with family, friends and coworkers. The investigator probes to find out about any enemies or past bad relationships involving the suspect.

Research

The criminal investigator needs to do a fair amount of research on his own. He needs to study and examine every aspect of the victim's life and possible motives for the crime.

Obtaining an Arrest Warrant

Despite what popular investigative crime shows may have you believe, not every case is solved. In fact a lot of them are never solved. But for those that are, the investigator must present enough evidence and a prime motive for why the suspect would commit the murder. The judge will either grant or not grant an arrest warrant depending on the case made by the investigator and the district attorney.