AK HB293

Amends AS 12.61.010(a) to clarify that crime victims have the right to be present during prosecution and sentencing proceedings, including during testimony even if the victim may be called as a witness.

Expands victim notification requirements in AS 12.61.015(a) to include notice of pending motions that may substantially delay prosecution, with "substantial delay" defined as one month or longer for misdemeanors, two months or longer for felonies, and six months or longer for appeals.

Requires prosecuting attorneys to inform the court of the victim's position on pending motions and to confer with domestic violence victims before entering into plea agreements.

Amends Rule 45 of the Alaska Rules of Criminal Procedure to require courts to consider the interests of known crime victims before granting continuances, taking into account the public interest in prompt disposition of criminal cases.

Adds new Rule 45(h) requiring courts to determine whether victims have been informed of pending continuance motions and to consider the victim's position and the effect of any continuance on the victim before ruling on the motion.