FAQs • St. Cloud, MN • CivicEngage

As a victim of a crime, what if I change my mind about prosecuting or testifying?: It is up to the prosecuting authority whether the crime will be prosecuted. A crime committed against any person is a crime committed against at the people of the state. Our community and each of us individually deserve protection against criminal wrongdoers. For this reason, the court can compel testimony of a victim or witness to a crime. Should you have any reluctance about testifying in a case, please discuss your concern with the prosecutor handling the case. Call 911 to report witness tampering and after also call the City Attorney’s Office at (320) 255-7204 to speak to our Victims Coordinator.

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Legal

1. I want to talk to a prosecutor about my case. When can I do that?: Absent exceptional circumstances, anyone wanting to discuss their case with the prosecutor needs to appear at their scheduled arraignment date. A prosecutor will be there to discuss your case and attempt to resolve it. If you cannot make your scheduled arraignment, you need to contact Stearns County District Court at (320) 656-3620 and reschedule.

2. I can't afford an Attorney. What are my options?: You may apply for a public defender. If you qualify financially, a public defender will be appointed (except for a petty misdemeanor level charge). You should apply for a public defender as soon as possible, by contacting Stearns County Court Administration at (320) 656-3620.

3. I don't have an Attorney. Can a lawyer from the City Attorney's Office help me?: Attorneys from this office cannot give legal advice to citizens or defendant's calling with legal questions. In criminal prosecutions, the City Attorney's office represents the State of Minnesota. You have the right to consult with a private attorney or apply for a public defender.

4. As a victim of a crime, what if I change my mind about prosecuting or testifying?: It is up to the prosecuting authority whether the crime will be prosecuted. A crime committed against any person is a crime committed against at the people of the state. Our community and each of us individually deserve protection against criminal wrongdoers. For this reason, the court can compel testimony of a victim or witness to a crime. Should you have any reluctance about testifying in a case, please discuss your concern with the prosecutor handling the case. Call 911 to report witness tampering and after also call the City Attorney’s Office at (320) 255-7204 to speak to our Victims Coordinator.