NCJ Number
111188
Date Published
1987
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This information brief summarizes the major features of Minnesota laws enacted over the past 13 years to protect the rights and interests of crime victims.
Abstract
Under Minnesota statutes a victim may receive financial assistance after having suffered economic loss due to injury or death from criminal victimization, regardless of whether the perpetrator is prosecuted for the crime. Restitution may also be imposed as a condition of probation for an offender. Also, Minnesota law requires that any person or organization entering into a contract with a felon for the re-enactment of or an interview about the crime must forward any money owed the offender to the State reparations board. Minnesota laws prohibit tampering with a witness, provide protection for victim/witness home addresses, mandate a secure witness waiting area prior to trial appearances, and prohibit employer retaliation for a victim's taking time off from work for testifying in court. Victim notification of criminal justice proceedings encompasses plea bargain agreements, court schedule changes, rights at sentencing, and offender release from confinement. Other victim rights to case participation include the right to request a speedy trial, input regarding pretrial diversion, the presence of a supportive person at a pretrial hearing, and an impact statement for the presentence investigation report. Legislation also provides services for victims of certain types of crimes, such as sexual assault and domestic assault. A chronological summary of the legislation from 1974 to 1987 is provided.