Crime Victims in Minnesota have rights.  For more information on these rights click: HERE.

To read more about 611A, the rights afforded to crime victims by law in Minnesota, click HERE.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY VICTIMS OF CRIME

“How can I get specific information about the case?”

Call your local law enforcement agency, prosecutor’s office or victim service provider for information.

“What if I need financial assistance?”

You could be eligible for reparations from the state of Minnesota if you are a victim of a violent crime and have out-of-pocket costs related to medical, counseling, a funeral or a wage loss.  You could be eligible for restitution from the defendant if he/she is found guilty or enters a guilty plea.

“What should I do if I receive a subpoena or am called to testify?”

A subpoena is a court order to appear in court.  Read it very carefully.  It will have instructions on who you should call for court information and location.  However, if you have a scheduling conflict or have any questions, you should call whoever sent the subpoena.  As a witness, you will receive a small fee for your time and mileage.

“Do these rights apply when the offender is a juvenile?”

Yes.

“How will I know when the offender gets out of jail or prison?”

To be informed about an offender’s release from jail or prison, you must make a special request to be notified.  Contact VINE or talk to a local victim service provider for more information.

“Can I attend all of the hearings?”

Yes, in general, criminal court proceedings involving adult defendants are open to the public.  A judge may close a hearing or exclude a party under certain circumstance.

RESOURCES FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME:

WHEN THE OFFENDER IS IN CUSTODY

To request to be notified of an inmate’s release or to obtain custody information, contact:

MINNESOTA VICTIM INFORMATION AND NOTIFICATION EVERYDAY (VINE) 1-877-MN4-VINE, or www.vinelink.com

CRIME VICTIMS REPARATIONS BOARD

For information about financial compensation in cases of violent crime, contact: 1-888-622-8799, or http://www.ojp.state.mn.us/MCCVS/FinancialHelp/

CRIME VICTIM JUSTICE UNIT

If you are a crime victim or witness and you believe your rights have been violated, contact: 651-201-7310, 1-800-247-0390, or www.dps.state.mn.us/OJP

COURT RECORDS

To access court records online visit: www.mncourts.gov for MNCIS – Minnesota Court Information System.

POLICE REPORTS

To find out how to get a copy of a policy report, click HERE