MN SF1035

Defines "child" as a person under 18 and requires courts to administer oaths in a manner the child understands and explain the child's right to request question clarification before testimony.

Permits courts to rephrase questions for age-appropriate understanding, limit testimony duration with recesses, schedule testimony during school hours, and adjust courtroom layout as needed.

Allows child witnesses to possess a comfort item and be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or supportive person during testimony unless the court finds it would unfairly prejudice the trier of fact or substantially risk influencing testimony content.

Requires supportive persons present during child testimony to not obstruct the defendant's or trier of fact's view, provide answers to questions, or influence the child's testimony.

Permits adult witnesses in criminal sexual conduct cases to be accompanied by a supportive person at omnibus and pretrial hearings, with court approval unless the support person's presence poses a substantial risk of influencing testimony.

Effective date: August 1, 2013 for all trials or testimonial proceedings commenced on or after that date; repeals Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 631.046.