California has particularly severe laws regarding sex offenders. Since 1947, California has had laws in place requiring sex offenders to register with their local law enforcement agency. If you are convicted of a crime and ordered to register as a sex offender, your name, picture, and criminal record will be listed publicly online. Due to the devastating impact this can have on your life and livelihood, it’s vital to contact an experienced Lancaster criminal defense attorney if there is even the possibility of charges being filed against you.
What Crimes Require Registration?
In California, nearly any criminal conviction can require you to register as a sex offender, if the judge has reason to believe that your actions were for sexual gratification. Some of the crimes which are specifically subjected to sex offender registration include:
- Rape or forced sexual acts
- Sex crimes involving a minor
- Child pornography
- Indecent exposure
What Does “Register As a Sex Offender” Actually Mean?
When you register as a sex offender, you must register your main address with your local law enforcement agency within 5 business days of your release or sentencing. You must also update your information yearly, at minimum. You are required to update your information every time you move, with both police departments if you are moving to a new jurisdiction. If you are a transient or sexually violent predator, you may be required to update your information much more often.
California's Megan's Law
The California Department of Justice complies information about all registered sex offenders, and makes much of it available to the public on their official Megan’s Law website. Anyone who is convicted of a violent sexual act, such as rape or aggravated sexual assault, will be required to list their complete address, along with their name, a photo, identifying information, and the offense or offenses which required them to register.
Charged or Convicted of a Sex Crime? Call Karpel Law Group Today.
California requires sex offenders to register for life, unless they choose to leave the state. If you’ve been charged with a sex crime, you need tough and aggressive defense to keep you out of jail and keep your name off of a registry. If you’ve already been convicted of a crime, our Lancaster criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you get your record expunged.
Sex crimes are serious. Call (888) 758-8186 today for serious defense.