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Victim Witness Services

 
 

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Victim/Witness Services

If you have been affected by a crime, the St. Louis County Attorney's Office is here to help you understand the process and your rights. Our Victim/Witness staff will listen, keep you informed, and help you take part in the case in a way that respects your dignity.

How we can help

  • Support through the process β€” We explain what to expect, keep you updated on your case, and help you prepare if you are asked to take part.
  • A voice in the case β€” You can share how the crime has affected you, and we help make sure your perspective is heard.
  • Referrals β€” We connect you with other services and support in the community.
  • Help with financial losses β€” We can help you seek:
    • Restitution β€” money a court can order a convicted offender to pay for losses caused by the crime, such as property loss or damage.Β 
    • Reparations β€” financial help from the State of Minnesota for certain costs after a violent crime, such as medical care, counseling, or lost wages, when other sources don't cover them. Reparations have filing deadlines, so it's best to apply as soon as you can.

Contact

Duluth Courthouse
218-726-2323


Duluth Government Services Center
218-726-2034


Hibbing Courthouse
218-262-0158


Virginia Courthouse
218-749-7101


Email the Office

Your rights as a victim:

To be Notified of:Β 

  • Crime victim rights.
  • Content of plea agreements.
  • Decision to not prosecute or dismiss domestic assault, harassment or criminal sexual conduct cases.
  • Date and time of final disposition of the case and sentence modifications.
  • Offender release from prison/institutions or transfer to a less secure facility.
  • Possible HIV testing if defendant is convicted of a violent crime.
  • Appeals and the right to attend if there are oral arguments.
  • Motions to have case records expunged.
  • Filing of a civil commitment petition and the outcome.

To Protection from Harm:

  • Tampering with a witness is a crime in Minnesota.
  • Call 911 if you are threatened or harassed by anyone and call the victim/witness advocate and/or the prosecuting attorney.
  • Request law enforcement withhold public access to data about identity.
  • Victims do not have to give their addresses in open court.
  • Secured waiting areas during court.
  • Victims/Witnesses cannot be disciplined or dismissed by your employer if called to testify in court.

To Participate in the Prosecution:

  • Input for pre-trial diversion program decision.
  • May request a speedy trial.
  • Object to the plea agreement at the plea hearing.
  • Attend the sentencing hearing and voice objections to plea agreements or the proposed disposition or sentence.
  • Provide a victim impact statement.
  • If restitution isn't paid, request a probation review hearing.

To Apply for Financial Assistance:

  • Receive a witness fee for loss of wages, child care, meals and accommodations.
  • Assistance from the state for economic loss due to violent crime.
  • Request the court to order the defendant to pay restitution.

How to…

  • Get notified when an offender's custody status changes β€” Register with VINE, Minnesota's victim notification service. 1-877-664-8463
  • Apply for reparations β€” Minnesota Crime Victim Reparations.Β 
  • Reach a victim/witness staff memberβ€” 218-726-2323 When you call, ask for a victim/witness advocate.
  • Find more support β€” Minnesota crisis and victim-support resources.

Learn More