Minnesota § 631.045 - EXCLUDING SPECTATORS FROM COURTROOM

Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 631.045 — EXCLUDING SPECTATORS FROM COURTROOM, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 631.045. EXCLUDING SPECTATORS FROM COURTROOM

At the trial of a complaint or indictment for a violation of sections 609.341 to 609.3451; 609.3453; 609.3458; 617.246, subdivision 2; or Minnesota Statutes 2004, section 609.109, when a minor under 18 years of age is the person upon, with, or against whom the crime is alleged to have been committed, the judge may exclude the public from the courtroom during the victim's testimony or during all or part of the remainder of the trial upon a showing that closure is necessary to protect a witness or ensure fairness in the trial. The judge shall give the prosecutor, defendant and members of the public the opportunity to object to the closure before a closure order. The judge shall specify the reasons for closure in an order closing all or part of the trial. Upon closure the judge shall only admit persons who have a direct interest in the case.

History:

1982 c 558 s 4; 1985 c 265 art 11 s 1; 1986 c 351 s 22; 1998 c 367 art 6 s 14; 2005 c 136 art 4 s 10; 2007 c 13 art 3 s 37; 1Sp2021 c 11 art 4 s 31

Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes

Source: official Minnesota text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 631.045

What does Minnesota Statutes § 631.045 cover?

Section 631.045 ("EXCLUDING SPECTATORS FROM COURTROOM") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Minnesota § 631.045?

A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 631.045" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Minnesota law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.

How does Minnesota § 631.045 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.