• Will you have to register as a sex offender?

    Will you have to register as a sex offender?

    If you have been charged with a sex-related criminal offense, you are likely concerned about the potential consequences you may have to face if you are convicted. It is worth noting that sex offenses are often highly specific and therefore result in a myriad of varying and nuanced consequences. In addition, different sex offenses may result in more or less severe consequences, depending on your jurisdiction, criminal history and numerous other factors.

    As a result, it is a good idea to consult an attorney experienced in defending individuals against sex offense charges in your state. That attorney should be able to explain all of the potential consequences you may face, including sex offender registration. As convicted sex offenders are often required to register with local law enforcement for the remainder of their lives, this is a particularly important consequence to understand fully.

    If you are convicted of forcible rape, you will almost certainly be required to register as a sex offender. Similarly, if you are convicted of child molestation, you will also likely be compelled to register. However, conviction of lesser charges may not require registration. For example, if you are convicted of indecent exposure, you may be able to avoid having to register as a sex offender.

    However, it is also worth noting that more than a dozen states require sex offender registration for individuals convicted of offenses as minor as public urination. As a result, it is particularly important to consult an experienced attorney even if you are charged with a relatively minor sex offense, given that a conviction could result in registration requirements for life.

    Source: Findlaw Blotter, “What Crimes Require Sex-Offender Registration?” Brett Snider, July 18, 2014

    At Leary Law, our Fairfax Criminal Defense lawyers are skilled and reliable advocates for our clients. Schedule a free confidential consultation with us if you or a loved one is facing any sex crime charges.

    Tags: Sex Crimes

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