Crime Victim Information/Resources

Rights for all Crime Victims:

  1. The right — if an offender is charged — to be informed of and participate in the prosecution process, including the right to request restitution (money court ordered from the offender and paid to the victim) for non-property losses. Contact MN Crime Victims Reimbursement Program 651-201-7300 or 1-888-622-8799 for an application.
  2. The right to be notified of plea negotiations.
  3. The right to be present at plea hearings and sentencing and to object orally or in writing to a proposed plea agreement or sentence.
  4. The right to be notified of the final outcome of the case and any appeals.
  5. The right to request law enforcement to keep your identity confidential from the public. Your identity may not be released by law enforcement if you are a victim of sexual assault or sex trafficking.
  6. In homicide cases, be notified of rights and procedures for protecting the deceased victim’s property.

Injured victims may receive financial compensation from the Minnesota Crime Victims Reimbursement Program for certain costs incurred as a result of a crime such as medical care, counseling costs, lost wages, crime scene cleanup, childcare, and funeral expenses (not property damage or loss). Claims must be filed within three years of injury except cases involving child abuse or other limited situations.  Learn more. 


Rights for Victims of Domestic Abuse

If you are the victim of domestic violence, you can ask the city or county attorney to file a criminal complaint. You also have the right to go to court and file a petition requesting an order for protection from domestic abuse. The order could include the following:

  • An order restraining the abuser from further acts of abuse.
  • An order directing the abuser to leave your household.
  • An order preventing the abuser from entering your residence, school, business, or place of employment.
  • An order awarding you or the other parent custody of or parenting time with your minor child or children.
  • An order directing the abuser to pay support to you and the minor children if the abuser has a legal obligation to do so.

If you feel your rights as a victim have been violated, contact MN Crime Victim Justice Unit at 651-201-7310 or 800-247-0390