Office of the Jefferson County Attorney – Louisville, KY

Public Justice and Legal Services in Jefferson County

The Office of the Jefferson County Attorney, led by the elected County Attorney, serves as the primary legal counsel for Louisville Metro Government and a key prosecutorial agency for the region. This institution plays a vital role in the local justice system, bridging the gap between law enforcement and the courts. Unlike private law firms, this office is responsible for prosecuting all misdemeanor criminal and traffic offenses that occur within Jefferson County. Furthermore, the office serves as a critical resource for families and individuals in need of protection and support. Whether it is securing a domestic violence order, collecting child support, or advising elected officials, the Jefferson County Attorney's Office is dedicated to upholding the law and enhancing the safety and quality of life for all Louisville residents.

Child Support Division

One of the most significant public-facing functions of the office is the Child Support Division. This division is committed to ensuring that children receive the financial support they are legally entitled to. Services provided include:

• Paternity Establishment: Legal assistance in determining the biological father of a child to establish rights and support obligations.
• Order Establishment: working through the court system to set fair financial and medical support orders based on state guidelines.
• Enforcement: Taking necessary legal steps to collect unpaid support, which may include wage withholding or other legal remedies.
• Modification: Reviewing and adjusting support orders when there are significant changes in the financial circumstances of the parents.

The Child Support Division operates with the goal of fostering responsible parenthood and reducing the reliance on public assistance by ensuring families have the resources they need.

Domestic Violence and victim Advocacy

The Jefferson County Attorney's Office is a staunch advocate for victims of domestic violence. The Domestic Violence Intake Center (DVIC) operates 24/7 to assist victims in filing for Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs) and Interpersonal Protective Orders (IPOs). The office's prosecutors work tirelessly in domestic violence court to hold offenders accountable while victim advocates provide emotional support, safety planning, and guidance through the confusing court process. This comprehensive approach ensures that victims are not only heard but actively protected by the legal system.

Prosecution and Community Safety

Beyond family services, the office handles the prosecution of thousands of cases annually. This includes:

• DUI Prosecution: Aggressively prosecuting impaired driving cases to keep Louisville's roads safe.
• Traffic Court: Managing the docket for traffic violations and speeding citations.
• Juvenile Justice: Addressing offenses committed by minors with a focus on rehabilitation and community safety.

Our mission is to prosecute crimes, collect child support, and provide sound legal advice to Metro Government with integrity and a commitment to justice.

Central Downtown Location

Headquartered in the heart of downtown Louisville, the main office is situated within the legal district, just steps away from the Jefferson County Judicial Center and the Hall of Justice. This central location facilitates close cooperation with judges, court clerks, and law enforcement agencies. For residents seeking child support assistance or filing criminal complaints, the office is a hub of activity and public service. While not a private firm for hire, the Jefferson County Attorney's Office is the 'People's Law Firm,' dedicated to serving the citizens of Louisville with professionalism and ethical stewardship.

If you need assistance with child support, domestic violence protection, or have questions regarding a criminal complaint, the Jefferson County Attorney's Office stands ready to serve the public interest.