survivors tell their stories

Part of being human is the comfort we find in each other, particularly when face hardship and loss. Although no one can ever completely take away the pain of our losses, reaching out to others who have been through or are going through similar events can be very healing. Click here to read survivor stories...

how vipi has helped others

Read direct quotes from law enforcement, surviving family members and community members...click here.

 

The Victim Intervention Program, Inc. offers the following services:

• Immediate crisis support
• Continuing grief support
• Spiritual support
• Education, training and consultation
• Issues of traumatic death

As part of our effort to educate and provide resources to those needing either, we would like to offer the following information to you:

• Victim rights
• Survivors' stories
• Examples of how VIPI has helped others

victim/survivor rights

You have the rights to be notified of:

• Content of any plea bargain agreements
• Changes in the schedule of court proceedings, including the date, time and place of sentencing
• Final disposition of the case
• Transfer of the offender from prison to custodial institution
• Escape and apprehension of the offender from prison or custodial institution

You have the Right to participate in prosecution, including the right to:

• Inform the court of the impact of the crime at the sentencing hearing
• Have input in a pre-trial diversion program decision
• Request a speedy trial
• Bring a supportive person to the pre-trial
• Object to a proposed disposition of sentence
• Object to a plea agreement
• Attend the sentencing hearing

You have the right to protection from harm:

• Tampering with a witness is a crime in Minnesota
• Victims/witnesses do not have to give their addresses in open court
• Victims have the right to a secure waiting area during court
• Employers may not discipline or dismiss victims or witnesses who are called to testify in court

You have the right to apply for financial assistance

• Victims may be eligible for financial assistance from the start if they have suffered economic loss as a result of a violent crime
• Victims can request the court to order the defendant to pay restitution

For more on Victim/Survivor Rights, click here ...