Crime victims have a right to be notified about:
- plea negotiations and agreements.
- changes in scheduling of court proceedings, including the date, time and place of sentencing.
- a decision not to prosecute a domestic assault or harassment case.
- final disposition of the case.
- the release of the offender from prison or an institution.
Crime victims have a right to protection from harm, so be aware:
- tampering with a witness is a crime in Minnesota.
- victims/witnesses do not have to give their addresses in open court.
- they have right to secure waiting area during court.
- employers may not discipline victims or witnesses who are called to testify in court.
- they have a right to request law enforcement to withhold their identify from the public.
Crime victims have a right to participate in the prosecution, including the right to:
- inform the court of the impact of the crime, at pretrial and at sentencing or disposition hearings.
- have input in pretrial diversion programs for crimes against persons.
- object to a plea negotiation.
- request a speedy trial.
- bring a support person to the pretrial hearing.
- attend sentencing or disposition hearings.
- give written objections to plea negotiation agreement or final sentence.
- be notified of the outcome of the case.
Crime victims have the right to apply for financial assistance.
- Victims may be eligible for financial assistance from the state if they have suffered economic loss as a result of violent crime.
- Victims can request the court to order the defendant to pay restitution.
