Fast forward 2 weeks, I've now been through the introductory meeting and a few hours training at the courthouse which included meeting staff and an initial look at the forms and a review of the beginning steps in conducting an investigation.  I've read the book supplied by the trainers...so far the investigatory work involved in computer system design is not totally different from what is done in this function.  Research...chart the available information...begin a plan of action...write  a preliminary report.

I am,however, somehwat concerned regarding the differences in the laws in this state from the state I spent my career.  Actually the differences have the potential to make this job easier but I am still a citizen and somewhat worried about privacy.  This concern revolves around the fact that arrest records are public no matter what the outcome is.  In other words if a person is arrested the local jail creates a record with a mugshot.  I could be wrong but it doesn't appear as if that record is ever updated except with jail information..i.e. release bond etc.  So, for example, should the prosecution decide not to go forward or the case is nolle'd that record remains for the public to query.  Has no-one ever been refused a job based on an unprosecuted arrest?

Here I go exploring a new version of me.  Still painting and having some luck with sales and commissions but it doesn't fill up my day. Whoever touts retirement sure doesn't live in my head.

I notice the local public defender is advertising for "interns" so I inquire.  "Does this mean being 20 and wearing a beanie."  No they say.  Maybe this is a way I can use all knowledge I learned hanging around police departments......Back up...I was never arrested but I did spend 20+ years learning the processes and designing computer systems for law enforcement agencies.  The jargon is all familiar, I know what data they capture, how they store it and how they use it....perhaps there's a fit. So I apply and am accepted.  They still haven't mentioned a beanie, we'll see.