Will I Have to Register as a Sex Offender if Convicted?

If you have been accused of a sex crime in New Jersey, you need to act quickly. The longer you ignore the situation, the more likely you are to face serious penalties.

Nobody wants to be known as a sex offender, but if you are convicted of a sex crime, you will be ordered to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law. Megan’s Law is a U.S. federal and state law requiring law enforcement to make information about registered sex offenders public, allowing communities to be notified of their presence to enhance public safety.

There are many procedures that must be followed, or else a person can face additional penalties. Sex offender registration and monitoring are outlined here.

Sex Offender Registry Requirements in New Jersey

New Jersey law requires certain individuals convicted of sex offenses to register with the State Police Sex Offender Registry. Registration requirements vary based on the severity of the offense, prior convictions, and the individual’s risk level.

Convictions for sexual assault, child exploitation, lewdness, or related crimes typically trigger registry requirements. Certain juvenile offenders may also be required to register.

Offenders must register immediately upon release from incarceration, probation, or parole. Duration depends on the offense:

• Tier 1: 15 years
• Tier 2: 25 years
• Tier 3: Lifetime

Registration is required:

• Before release. If incarcerated, you must register before being released from prison or a supervised release program.
• At sentencing. If not sentenced to prison, you must register at the time of sentencing.
• Upon moving or starting work or school. You must register within 48 hours of moving to New Jersey or starting work or school in the state.

Registration involves:

• Initial registration with your local police department.
• Annually verifying your address with the local police.
• Registering with the police at your school or workplace.

Sex Offender Registry FAQs

Q: When must I register?

A: Registration is required immediately upon release from incarceration, probation, or parole.

Q: What information must I provide?

A: Registrants must provide personal details, including name, aliases, address, employment, vehicle information, internet identifiers, fingerprints, and a photograph.

Q: How often must I update my information?/

A: At least annually, and any time there’s a change in address, employment, or school.

Q: What are the penalties for failing to register?

A: Failure to register or update information can lead to criminal charges, fines, and imprisonment. Tier 3 offenders face stricter enforcement.

Q: Is the registry public?

A: Some information, like name, photograph, and address, is publicly accessible online. Sensitive details remain confidential.

Contact Us Today

Sex crimes are punished harshly in New Jersey. Protect your rights and future with the right legal help.

The law presumes a defendant’s innocence. Even so, a Cherry Hill criminal defense lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher St. John can provide you with exceptional defense to increase your chances of a successful case outcome. Our legal team prides itself on giving each client’s matter the specialized attention it deserves. Schedule a consultation today. Contact us via (856) 716-5427 or online here.