Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission: A Resource Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission is not a correctional facility but a state agency responsible for establishing and maintaining the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines provide a framework for sentencing convicted felons in Minnesota's district courts.
Contact Information
Address: 658 Cedar Street, Suite G-58, St. Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 296-0144
Website: https://mn.gov/sentencing-guidelines/
Email: [email protected]
Purpose and Function
The Commission's primary responsibilities include:
- Establishing and maintaining sentencing guidelines for the district courts
- Modifying the guidelines as necessary
- Conducting ongoing research on sentencing practices
- Providing training on guidelines to judges and practitioners
- Assisting in the development of criminal justice policy
History of the Commission
The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission was established by the Minnesota Legislature in 1978. It was created to develop and maintain a model for rational and consistent sentencing standards for felony offenses. The first set of guidelines became effective on May 1, 1980.
Commission Composition
The Commission consists of 11 members appointed by the Governor, including:
- The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court or a designee
- Two district court judges
- One public defender
- One county attorney
- The Commissioner of Corrections or a designee
- Three public members
- One peace officer
- One probation or parole officer
Sentencing Guidelines
The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines provide a framework for sentencing convicted felons. They take into account:
- The severity of the offense
- The offender's criminal history
- Aggravating and mitigating factors
Resources and Publications
The Commission provides several resources on its website, including:
- The current Sentencing Guidelines and Commentary
- Training materials
- Reports and data on sentencing practices
- Sentencing Worksheets
Public Meetings
The Commission holds regular public meetings. Information about upcoming meetings and minutes from past meetings can be found on their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines?
The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines are a set of standards used by judges to determine sentences for convicted felons. They take into account the severity of the offense and the offender's criminal history to promote consistency in sentencing across the state.
Are the Sentencing Guidelines mandatory?
While the guidelines are not strictly mandatory, judges are required to follow them unless they find substantial and compelling reasons to depart from them. Any departures must be justified in writing.
How often are the Sentencing Guidelines updated?
The Commission reviews and updates the guidelines annually. Major changes typically go into effect on August 1st of each year, coinciding with the effective date of new criminal laws passed by the legislature.
Can the public attend Commission meetings?
Yes, Commission meetings are open to the public. Meeting dates, times, and locations are posted on the Commission's website.
How can I access sentencing data and reports?
The Commission regularly publishes reports and data on sentencing practices in Minnesota. These can be accessed on their website under the "Reports & Data" section.
