In criminal prosecutions, the County Attorney's office represents the State of Minnesota.  The County Attorney's Office represents Steele County, its elected officials and staff, County departments, and the County’s Boards.

Assuming a guilty plea or conviction, a judge can take into consideration someone's financial circumstances.  One option frequently utilized is community work service in place of payment of a fine. Community work service is credited toward a fine at the rate of $20/hour (e.g. $200 fine or 10 hours community work service.) 

Depending on your driving record, the prosecutor may be willing to resolve your case in a manner that does not cause you a new driver's license issue. This resolution would require you to remain law abiding for a period of time along with payment of costs.

If you have received a traffic citation in Steele County or the City of Owatonna, you may attend an arraignment day to speak with a prosecutor.  To do so, please contact Steele County Court Administration to schedule an arraignment hearing. Please contact the Steele County District Court at (507) 686-7012 to request a hearing be scheduled.

A public defender will not be appointed on a petty misdemeanor case. You have the right to hire a private lawyer but do not have a right to a public defender.

You may apply for a public defender. If you qualify financially, a public defender will be appointed (except for a petty misdemeanor level charge). To apply for a public defender call Steele County District Court at (507) 686-7012 or visit https://pdapplication.courts.state.mn.us/

Attorneys from this office cannot give legal advice to citizens or defendants calling with legal questions. You have the right to consult with a private attorney or apply for a public defender.