Sentencing
In Minnesota, sentences for serious crimes (called felonies) are decided using the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines. These rules help decide how long someone should go to prison or be on probation. The sentence depends on how serious the crime was and the person’s past criminal record.
Probationary Sentences
If the guidelines suggest probation instead of prison, a District Court Judge sets the rules for probation. The judge will consider the plea agreements, what the victim says, and suggestions from the prosecutor, defense lawyer, and a corrections officer.