Founding Attorney

Tyler Chelf

Tyler Chelf at Chelf Law defends law enforcement and first responders across Kentucky, backed by nearly a decade of firsthand law enforcement experience.

About Tyler Chelf

A former Lexington Police Department Detective and Officer, Tyler brings nearly a decade of police and investigative experience to his law practice.

Tyler began his law-enforcement career as a patrol officer and field training officer, serving in those roles for three years before becoming a detective. He spent the next six years with the Lexington Police Department’s Bureau of Investigation, serving in the Special Victims Section, Crimes Against Children Unit, and Computer Forensics Unit.

As an Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) detective, Tyler investigated allegations of child abuse and exploitation, reviewed and analyzed electronic records, and used forensic tools to extract and examine data from computers and mobile devices. His work required a deep understanding of digital evidence and technology, as well as the ability to explain complex investigative findings in court. He regularly testified in judicial proceedings concerning his investigations and forensic examinations.

Tyler also served with the Bureau of Special Operations Hazardous Devices Unit, responding to incidents involving hazardous devices, explosives, and suspicious packages. He became a FAA-certified drone pilot and used unmanned aircraft to support tactical operations and hazardous-device responses.

While attending law school, Tyler continued working full-time with the Lexington Police Department and served as an intern with the Fayette County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

Credentials

Education

  • Northern Kentucky University, Salmon P. Chase College of Law, Juris Doctorate, magna cum laude
  • ‍Eastern Kentucky University, Bachelor of Science, cum laude

Bar Admissions

Kentucky

  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Kentucky
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Kentucky
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit

Certifications

  • Certified Instructor, Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training
  • FAA Certified Remote Pilot

Affiliations

  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • Fayette County Bar Association
  • Fraternal Order of Police, Bluegrass Lodge #4 Member
  • Fraternal Order of Police Panel Counsel for Kentucky
  • Southern States Police Benevolent Association Panel Counsel for Kentucky
  • Professional Law Enforcement Association Panel Counsel for Kentucky
  • Policeman’s Legal Services Corporation Panel Counsel
  • International Association of Chiefs of Police
  • Defense Research Institute

Publications

  • “Plan Before You Fly – Legal Implications of Police Use of Drone Technology,” Kentucky Cities, a publication of the Kentucky League of Cities (August 2024)