Victims Advocacy | Oldham County Attorney

Victims Advocacy Program

Innocent victims of crime have the right to be treated with respect and compassion, to be informed and involved in the criminal justice process, to be protected from harm and intimidation, and to be provided with the resources necessary to regain some of the control they lost when victimized.

The Oldham County Attorney’s Office established a Victims Advocacy Program with these philosophies in mind. Our goal is to provide assistance to individuals who have been victims of violent crimes within Oldham County. This Assistance Program helps address the devastating emotional and psychological consequences that victims and their families experience.

The Oldham County Victims Advocacy Team offers support in the following areas:

Court Orientation

Victims may not understand the procedures for prosecuting cases and may be unfamiliar with terms used within the criminal justice system. The Victim Advocate will provide information about the legal process and what may be expected of victims.

Notification

The Victim Advocate will keep victims advised of the status of their cases on a regular basis and be available to answer any questions they may have.

Participation

Victims are encouraged to express opinions and concerns. Victims may speak with the Victim Advocate regarding their case or they may speak directly with the prosecutor. The Victim Advocate will also document the amount of financial damages caused by injuries in order to seek restitution in court.

Protection

The Victim Advocate will advise the prosecutor and the Court of any threats or intimidation by the offender.

Court Companionship

If a victim desires, he or she can be accompanied to all court proceedings by the Victim Advocate.

Referrals

The Victim Advocate is able to provide referrals to victims for services such as counseling, therapy, and safety planning.

Crime Victim’s Compensation

Kentucky has established a Crime Victims Compensation Board from which an innocent victim may be reimbursed for medical expenses or wages lost as result of a crime. The Victim Advocate may be available to help answer questions concerning eligibility or compensation and to assist in the completion of Crime Victims Compensation Claim Forms.

If you have further questions concerning the Oldham County Victims Assistance Program, please contact Julie Petroski, (502) 222-7342 ext. 4003