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.