The Office of Criminal Appeals represents the Commonwealth of Kentucky in defending felony convictions, including those in which the death penalty has been imposed, when those convictions are attacked in state or federal court.
While initial felony prosecutions are handled by the local Commonwealth's Attorneys, under Kentucky law our Office is charged with preparing briefs and presenting arguments in front of any state or federal court hearing a challenge to a felony conviction. This Office works with local prosecutors to see that justice is served in these cases and to ensure that lawfully imposed sentences are carried out.