Consequences of Failing to Register as a Sex Offender

If you have been convicted of a sexual offense, such as sexual abuse or other related offenses, then you most likely are aware of the consequences and ramifications that have followed. In addition to your sentencing, you also will have to register as a sex offender in your jurisdiction. Evidently, a sex offender is one who has been convicted of a sexual offense, which is characterized as harming an individual in a sexual manner.

Registration Requirements

Sex offenders are required by law to register with their local community and police. Offenders must notify the proper authorities of their place of residence, occupation, and school, if necessary.

Sex offender registration laws may differ from state to state, this includes the frequency of registration and what information is made public. Furthermore, failure to register properly and within the law is a serious offense in all states.

Tier System

Although sex offender registration laws may vary, all state programs follow the federal guidelines of SORNA (Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act). All sex offenders are categorized by tier; tier I sex offenders must register annually, tier II every six months, and tier III every three months. These tiers depend on the severity of the charges or crimes. The SORNA tier system is as follows:

• Tier I : These include offenses that do not support a higher classification, which are normally offenses related to child pornography possession or a registration offense.
• Tier II : This tier includes felony crimes, such as distribution of child pornography or major sexual abuse or the exploitation of minors.
• Tier III : These offenses involve sexual offenses against children under 13 years old, kidnapping of a minor, or attempting to commit these offenses.

Failing to Register as a Sex Offender Is a Serious Offense

Failing to register properly is a serious offense if you are a convicted sex offender and should be treated as such. It is a federal law and the penalty could be quite severe, such as a maximum of 10 years in prison or $250,000 in fines.

In most cases, convicted sex offenders may forget to register or were not aware to register when relocating to another state or taking on a new job. It is important to know your rights and to know what is expected of you after your sentencing. A knowledgeable lawyer that deals with sex crimes can help you understand the law and the facts.

Cherry Hill Sex Crimes Lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John Defend Those Charged with Sexual Offenses

Facing a felony charge can be overwhelming for anyone. If you have been charged with a sexual offense, then contact one of our Cherry Hill sex crimes lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John today. Our experienced defense lawyer will provide you legal guidance and will give you the best outcome possible. Call us at 856-296-3481 or complete our online form to schedule a confidential consultation. Located in Haddonfield, New Jersey, we proudly serve the communities of South Jersey, including those in Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Salem County.