How Do You Get Removed from Megan’s Law in NJ?

If you are a convicted sex offender, you will be facing imprisonment, steep fines, and potentially be ordered to pay restitution to the victim. You may face community supervision for life following a sexual assault, kidnapping, or aggravated criminal sexual contact. If that does not seem bad enough, you will be required to register on the sex offender registry. For many offenses, sex offenders are required to register for life, although under certain circumstances you may qualify to have your name removed after 15 years.

In this article, our Cherry Hill sex crime lawyers discuss what you need to know about Megan’s Law requirements and how to potentially get your name removed.

What is Megan’s Law?

Named after Megan Kanka, a seven-year-old girl who was raped and murdered by her neighbor. Megan’s Law is a federal law that requires sex offenders to register on the sex offender registry. It informs community members about where sexual offenders live, with each listing including a person’s place of work, criminal history, and a color photo. While Megan’s Law is codified under federal law, many states have adopted their own versions.

Who Must Register Under Megan’s Law?

Under Megan’s Law, you must register your name with law enforcement if you committed a sexual offense after October 31, 1994, or were already serving a sentence. Most offenders will be required to register for the rest of their lives. If you plan on moving, you must report a change in address 10 days prior to your relocation. Most sex offenders are required to update their address annually, with some offenders being required to verify their address every 90 days.

Failure to comply with this law is a fourth-degree offense, punishable by imprisonment and fines. If you have any questions regarding your registration status or requirements, you should speak with a Cherry Hill, NJ, sex crime attorney.

Getting Your Name Removed from the NJ Sex Offender Registry

Whereas most former convicts can put their past transgressions behind them, the law does not extend the same courtesy to sex offenders. However, some offenders may be eligible to get their name removed from the registry after 15 years. To qualify, the following must apply in your given situation:

• You were not convicted of sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault
• You only committed one offense
• You have not committed another offense in 15 years
• You do not pose a threat to others

Cherry Hill, NJ, Sex Crime Attorneys Helping You Regain Your Dignity

A sex offense charge can make you fearful of what lies ahead. At The Law Offices of Christopher St. John, we believe that you deserve all that life has to offer. More than anything else, we want you to be able to move beyond your past transgression. Although having your listing removed will not negate your criminal record, it will likely open the door for more opportunities. To learn how we can be of assistance to you, contact us online or by phone to schedule your free consultation.