CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

The Burden of Sex Offender Registration in California: Know Your Rights

In the state of California, being convicted of a sex offense requires registration as a sex offender. Failure to comply is a criminal offense under Penal Code 290. If a person knowingly violates this code, it can be reduced to a misdemeanor charge provided the original sex offense was a misdemeanor charge or a juvenile adjudication. This offense, however, becomes a felony charge if the person continues to violate the code after the initial misdemeanor charge for failure to register.

It is essential to take note that failure to register as a sex offender has no statute of limitations. The court considers it a continuing offense. If you fail to inform authorities of a change of address or do not annually update your sex offender registration, you can be charged with two offenses.

Sex offender registration is required annually, five days from the individual’s date of birth. If a person becomes homeless, transient, or relocates, registration must be done again to ensure compliance. Since violation is considered a ‘continuing offense’, failing to register is a new criminal offense.

Failing to register is also a violation of parole, especially if the crime was considered a ‘strike’ or violent against another individual. This offense may subject the individual to harsh sentencing according to California’s three strikes law.

While there might be extenuating circumstances, such as hospitalization, impassable weather conditions, or unlawful arrests, forgetting to register is not a valid defense. Seeking help from a skilled attorney who can defend you in court is critical.

Sex offenders are typically stigmatized by society and can face misconduct through unlawful arrests or false accusations during registration. A skilled attorney can defend the accused against such abuse and make it a viable defense.

Conviction of a sex crime in California is a life-changing event with every consequence like public humiliation, long prison sentences, or both. The stigma remains evident as convicts must register as a sex offender once they leave prison. The registration can last throughout their lives, and failing to comply can result in new criminal charges.

However, a person may be eligible for a Certificate of Rehabilitation based on the specifics of the original crime. The Court certifies this document to acknowledge that you are of good moral character and are obedient to the laws of the land. This certificate restores civil and political rights to applicants who have exhibited rehabilitation.

The court requires individuals to conduct an honest and upright life, exhibit good moral character, observe sobriety and industry, and follow the laws of the land to qualify for this certificate.

If you are facing sex crime charges or violations of sex crime registration, it is critical to reach out to an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney right away. A criminal defense lawyer has the experience to defend sex crime cases, particularly in helping clients avoid sex offender registration or obtaining the Certificate of Rehabilitation.