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1. Can I get legal advice from your office?

No, the Freeborn County Attorney’s Office is prevented by law from answering legal questions or providing legal advice to private citizens.

2. How can I get a copy of a police report?

Contact the Freeborn County Law Enforcement - Records Department to obtain a copy.

3. I am the victim of a crime. How can I "drop the charges"?

Many people incorrectly believe a victim has the power to “press charges” and/or “drop the charges.” All crimes are considered offenses against the State, not solely against the victim. The Freeborn County Attorney's Office prosecutes criminal complaints on behalf of the State of Minnesota.

Only the County Attorney or Assistant County Attorney can decide to file or dismiss charges, though the victim’s opinion is important in that decision.

4. How do I contact my public defender?

Third Judicial District
Owatonna Office
135 West Main Street, Suite E
Owatonna MN 55060
Phone: 507-455-5887 Fax: 507-455-5891
Counties represented: Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, Winona

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1. What is estimated market value?

This value is what the assessor estimates your property would likely sell for on the open market. State law requires assessors to value property at 100% of market value. Because it is statistically impossible to value at market value, state standards require the assessors to value property between 90% and 105% of market value based upon a sales sample, not just on an individual sale.

2. How is my market value calculated?

Sales of real estate are used as a guide in determining the assessor’s market values. These sales are analyzed to determine which factors contribute to the value. These factors are then put into a model or formula to apply to all properties. The values are then tested to make sure that the quality of the assessment meets statistical requirements.

3. Why does my market value change if I have made no improvements to my property?

Trends in the real estate market due to local economic conditions, interest rates, and supply / demand influence the value of property. The Assessor’s Office studies the real estate market each year. When properties sell for more each year, the assessor is required to adjust the values accordingly. Estimated market values can also be decreased if the real estate market shows sale prices are going down.

4. Does an increase in estimated market value always mean in increase in property tax?

Not necessarily; many factors go into determining how much property taxes change from year to year. The items include spending habits of local governments, school bonds for either building or operating expenses, changes made by the legislature in the state property tax system, the amount of new construction within the county, and a change in property value or classification. A change in any of these can result in tax increases.

5. Do I have to allow the assessor into my home?

Even though Minnesota Statute 273.20 authorizes assessors to enter dwellings to conduct their appraisals, the same law recognizes a property owner’s right to privacy. If you wish to deny an appraiser access, you must notify us either verbally or in writing. Statute directs that we then make our best estimate of the property’s market value by making assumptions concerning the property’s finish and condition. No appeal board may change a market value without an interior inspection.

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1. What is the Follow Along Program?

The Follow Along Program is a:

• Easy way to find out about other services you may want for your child
• Fun way to get ideas about “what to teach” and “at what age” to teach it
• Good way to learn about your child’s health and development
• Simple way to ask questions about how your child is hearing, moving, seeing, playing, talking, learning, growing, and acting

2. How does the Follow Along Program work?

A professional, most often a nurse, may visit with you to tell you more about the program and find out more about your child. You will then be asked to sign a permission form.

Next, questionnaires are sent to you when your child reaches different ages such as 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 30, and 36 months old. Each questionnaire asks how your child is growing, playing, talking, moving, and acting. Sheets with fun activities for you to do with your child, or other age appropriate items, are also sent to you.

The results of the questionnaires will be shared with you. If there are any concerns, a nurse or other professional from the program will get in touch with you. Together, you can talk about choices for further evaluation or early help services.

After your child is 36 months old, you will get information about the next step, which is also known as the Early Childhood Screening.

3. Is there a cost?

No, there is no cost to you.

4. How do I sign up?

For the referral of a child, or for more information about the Follow Along Program, contact Natalie Loock, registered nurse at the Freeborn County Public Health Department, by calling 507-377-5100.

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1. How do I obtain an application for a Permit to Purchase or Carry a firearm?

The Minnesota Uniform Firearm Application, either the Permit to Carry a Pistol or Permit to Purchase/Transfer, is located in the Records section of the Sheriff's Office website. Fill out the form completely and drop it off in person at the Records Department of the Freeborn County Sheriff accompanied by any applicable fee and required documentation.

2. How do I obtain a copy of a crash report?

You can make a request for a copy of a crash report from the Records Department. Check the Records Fee Schedule for any associated fees.

3. How do I obtain a background check on myself?

The Background Check form is located on the Sheriff's page of this website. Fill it out and return it to the Sheriff's Office along with any applicable fees.

4. How do I arrange for a Vacation Watch or Spot Check of my property in my absence?

Contact Dispatch at 507.377.5200, option 5 and provide the pertinent information (who, where, when),

5. How do I make arrangements for Special Policing from the Freeborn County Sheriff's Office?

Contact the Administrative Assistant and provide her with the information regarding your request. Typical requests are related to house moves, street dances, special events etc. Fees associated are $50 per hour, per deputy, 2 hour minimum.

6. How do I file a report to commend a Deputy Sheriff for excellent service?

Select the Sheriff's Office and click on "Commendation/Allegation of Misconduct Form" to obtain the form. Fill out the form and return to the Sheriff's Office.

7. How do I report an allegation of misconduct regarding a Deputy Sheriff?

Select the Sheriff's Office and click on "Commendation/Allegation of Misconduct Form" to obtain the form. Fill out the form and return to the Sheriff's Office.

8. How do I make an appointment for fingerprints?

Contact one of our Office Support Specialists at 507-373-3965.

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1. How do I obtain a watercraft event permit?

Contact the Freeborn County Sheriff's Office with the pertinent information regarding your request.