A number of sexual offenses can lead to going onto the sex offender registry. This is a registry that is public and searchable. Additionally, it is geo-specific, ensuring that if you move, you’re still listed as a sex offender in the area where you now reside.
Staying On the Registry
Once you are convicted of a sexual offense, you will be placed onto the registry depending on your state laws. From there, you will stay on the registry for a specific number of years based on the actual offense. If you were given a jail sentence of 30+ months, you will most likely remain on the register indefinitely. However, you may only remain on the registry for 5 or 10 years based on your jail time or if you were under 18 at the time of conviction.
Every state has a sex offender registry. Within the registry, the public will be able to view a significant amount of information about you. This includes viewing your mug shot, reading about your convictions, obtaining your current address, and even any vehicles that you have registered in the state.
How Being on the Registry Can Impact You
Because the information is public, anyone will be able to find out that you are on the registry. It can have an impact on your ability to find housing as well as work. Many apartment complexes and landlords will run a search to find out if you are a sex offender within the state. Additionally, this information will show up if an employer does an extensive background check.
Particularly if it has been years since the sexual offense, it can continue to haunt you.
Removing Yourself
It is not an easy process to remove yourself from the sex offender registry. Much of it will depend on state laws. There are waiting periods in some instances. Other states require you to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life. You may need to be awarded a reversal based on an appeal in order to be removed. Once a certain amount of time has passed from being convicted of the crime, it may be necessary to sit down with a lawyer to learn more about your options.
Ultimately, if you have questions about being on the sex offenders registry as well as how to remove your name from the database, it’s important to work with a professional lawyer who can assist you with the process.