Advocating for Justice
and the Well-Being of Our Youth

Juvenile Court

Teen boy in a white polo shirt sitting alone by red lockers, looking concerned and thoughtful, symbolizing youth challenges or school-related issues.

The Russell County Attorney's Office plays a crucial role in advocating for the well-being of children and ensuring justice in cases involving juveniles.

Our office represents the Commonwealth of Kentucky in addressing issues on behalf of and against juveniles, with a focus on rehabilitation and ensuring safe, nurturing environments for all children.

Juvenile Cases We Handle:

Public Offenses

These are incidents that would be considered criminal if committed by an adult.

Ranging from minor infractions to serious offenses, these cases are handled confidentially with an emphasis on rehabilitation. In severe circumstances, juveniles may be transferred to regular court to be tried as adults.

Status Offenses

These include issues such as:

Truancy
Runaways
Beyond Control Cases

Status offenses are typically resolved in family court, while public offenses are handled in district court.

Fighting for Children's Welfare

In addition to addressing offenses, our office takes decisive action on behalf of children who face neglect or abuse. Every child deserves a safe, loving home

Young girl laughing joyfully outdoors, wearing a polka dot dress and denim jacket, symbolizing childhood happiness and family well-being.

We pursue cases against parents or guardians who:

Fail to provide basic care.

Neglect or abuse their children.

When necessary, we advocate for the removal of a child from an unsafe environment to ensure their well-being and future.

Truancy

The County Attorney Truancy Diversion Program (CATS) offers individuals facing minor truancy charges a second chance.

This program allows participants to complete an online Truancy course instead of appearing in court and facing a conviction. Successful completion results in dismissal of charges, helping you move forward with a clean slate.

How It Works:

1. Cost:

The program fee is $180.00.

2. Enrollment Options:

Online: Print the application from the Truancy drop-down menu on this page and follow the instructions.
By Phone: Contact Nicole Sciegaj at 270-343-2121 for enrollment or more information.

Why Choose CATS?

Avoid a court appearance and conviction.

Learn valuable lessons through an engaging online course.

Take a step toward a brighter, more responsible future.

Child Support

Three women from the Russell County Attorney’s Office team standing together in front of a dark gray backdrop, smiling professionally.

We are dedicated to helping families thrive by ensuring children receive the support they deserve.

From establishing paternity to enforcing child and medical support orders, the office works tirelessly to serve the community. With over 2,800 active cases, the office collected nearly $2.5 million in 2021 alone, directly benefiting our children.

Our Services Include:

Establishing Paternity for children born out of wedlock

Enforcing Support Orders

Setting Up Child & Medical Support Orders

Locating Absent Parents

Child Support Web Portal

The online portal makes managing your child support case easier than ever. Access key features and updates, including:

Apply for child support

Review your current case

View payment history

Ask case-specific questions

Receive updates

Make payments online

Visit Child Support Web Portal

Underage Drinking

Are you facing an underage drinking charge?

The Russell County Attorney’s Underage Drinking Prevention Program offers an opportunity to turn your situation around. Through education and accountability, this program is designed to help you make informed, healthier decisions for the future.

What is the Program?

The Underage Drinking Prevention Program provides educational content on the dangers of alcohol abuse and binge drinking. Successful completion of the program can lead to dismissal of your case, giving you a fresh start while learning valuable life lessons.

How to Participate

1. Request Approval

On your court date, ask the judge to allow your participation in the program.

2. Program Fee

The program costs $180.00, plus applicable court fees.

3. Enrollment

Print the program application and follow the enrollment instructions provided.

Resources for Guardianship Support

When an individual is unable to manage their personal or financial affairs due to age, disability, or illness, a guardian or conservator may be appointed by the court to provide legal assistance. Guardianship focuses on overseeing personal care decisions, while conservatorship manages financial affairs. The Russell County Attorney’s Office plays a key role in these legal proceedings, ensuring the best interests of the individual are protected while following the appropriate legal processes.

Please Contact Us to Start the Process

Casey’s Law

Casey’s Law empowers families to intervene before it’s too late.

By providing a legal pathway to treatment, it offers a lifeline to individuals struggling with addiction, potentially saving lives and breaking the cycle of substance abuse.

What is Casey’s Law?

The Matthew Casey Wethington Act for Substance Abuse Intervention, commonly known as Casey’s Law, provides families and loved ones with a legal means to intervene when someone is struggling with substance abuse but is unable to recognize their need for treatment.

Named for Matthew Casey Wethington, who tragically died of a heroin overdose at age 23, the law honors his memory by offering hope to others battling addiction. Passed on April 9, 2004, and effective July 13, 2004, Casey’s Law allows parents, relatives, or friends to petition the court to mandate treatment for a substance-impaired individual.

What Does Casey’s Law Provide?

Casey’s Law enables loved ones to act when denial or impairment prevents an individual from seeking help. By filing a petition, they can request court-ordered treatment, which studies show can be as effective as voluntary treatment.

In 2022, Governor Andy Beshear signed HB 362, which strengthened Casey’s Law by:

Allowing health care professionals performing evaluations to be subpoenaed for cross-examination during hearings.
Establishing that a treatment order requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Why is Casey’s Law Important?

Addiction is a life-threatening, progressive disease that impairs rational decision-making. Without intervention, the "bottom" for many is death.

Casey’s Law provides a critical opportunity to save lives by:

Offering a pathway to treatment before a substance-impaired individual is arrested or commits a crime.
Reducing the cycle of addiction and its connection to crime.
Giving loved ones the ability to intervene and offer hope.

How to Use Casey’s Law

The process for petitioning under Casey’s Law includes:

Obtain the Petition Form: Request Form 700A from your local District Court clerk’s office.
Complete and File the Petition: A spouse, relative, friend, or guardian files the petition.
Court Review: A judge reviews the petition and examines the petitioner under oath.
Probable Cause: If probable cause is found, the judge appoints an attorney for the respondent, orders evaluations, and schedules a hearing within 14 days.
Evaluation: Two qualified health professionals, including at least one physician, evaluate the respondent.
Hearing: Based on findings, the judge may order treatment lasting 60 to 360 days, ranging from detoxification to intensive recovery programs.

Russell County Attorney

Advocating for Justice and the Well-Being of Our Youth