In 1966, Investigators from various California Public Defender offices created the Defense Investigators Association (DIA).
DIA conducts professional training in the area of criminal defense. Annual seminars and the Defense Investigators Training Academy (DITA) offer training opportunities in a variety of investigative subjects
DIA membership includes “Active” and “Associate” members. Benefits include discounts to association training, the association newsletter and access to a network of criminal defense professionals.
2025s DITA IV was attended by over 60 participants and 10% were San Diego State University Alums!
Articles by Journalist Anat Rubin highlighting the importance of Public Defenders and Defense Investigators. See the two links below for these powerful stories.
2026 Defense Investigators Association elections are around the corner. Reach out if you have an interest in supporting the DIA and the trainings we provide. Your DIA Board of Directors consists of 6 members from Northern and 6 from Southern California, as well as the officers, The President, Vice President, and Secretary/Treasurer.
CONTRATULATIONS to Justin Hill from Contra Costa County! Justin was selected from a list of applicants and awarded this recognition at the DIA Annual Conference at the Madonna Inn. He was nominated by a few of the attorneys in his office and some of the highlights from those nominations are his passion and his belief in the work of indigent defense. He has worked a myriad of homicide cases, is extremely committed, and a total team player. Justin shows how much he cares for, and truly respects, his clients. He exemplifies the very best of what it means to serve, to fight and to believe in justice! Pictured with Justin are DIA Board Members Alfonso Ochoa (Southern Board) and Kristy Leon (Northern Board)
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"There’s so many different investigators from so many different counties that I (am) able to talk with and connect with…and that I learn so much from. I’m very excited to apply that in my future as an investigator..
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