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1. How do I file charges against someone?

A criminal action cannot begin without an investigation by a law enforcement agency. Criminal activity must be referred to a law enforcement agency for an investigation. Our Investigator can direct you towards the appropriate agency.

2. How do I get a restraining order?

The Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office will request a No-Contact Order for victims of a crime as part of filing new criminal charges. Without the filing of charges, a private citizen may apply for a Civil Protective Order at the Jefferson County Clerk’s Office located in the Courthouse.

3. How do I “drop” charges?

Once a law enforcement agency is contacted to investigate the commission of a crime, and charges are filed, the Prosecutor retains sole discretion in the disposition of that case. It is the Prosecutor’s duty to represent the interests of the greater community and the laws of the State of Indiana.
Our office policy is that once a person is charged with a crime, the presumption will be that that individual will be prosecuted. However, the victim has the right to be heard and the Prosecutor will take this position into consideration when deciding the appropriate course of action.

4. What is restitution?

A Court may order a person who is convicted of a crime to pay restitution to the victim, the victim’s family, or the victim’s estate for certain expenses related to the crime. Restitution payments may be ordered for property damage, medical and hospital bills, funeral and burial costs, or other items determined appropriate by the Court. These payments are to be made through the Jefferson County Clerk’s Office. If you are the victim of a crime and you believe you are owed restitution, please submit documentation of expenses related to the crime to the Victim Advocate.