Colorado Sex Offender Registry: What should I know?

Convicted of a sex crime or accused of a sex crime that you are afraid may result in a conviction? A conviction could come with required registration as a sex offender. It may not sound like much to be concerned about. It may seem like all you need to do is provide updates about your contact information whenever you move.

The reality is much more expansive. The consequences can extend far beyond what you may expect. In fact, the implications can be so broad that researchers throughout the country have wondered whether we should revisit the requirements and make changes to help better ensure that anyone on these registries can have a chance at successfully reentering society. We explored this issue and additional critiques of the sex offender registration system in more detail in a previous piece available here, but it is important to repeat that unforeseen consequences include:

• Harassment
• Isolation
• Unemployment
• Homelessness

Unfortunately these consequences can extend beyond the registrant to their family members. Children of registered sex offenders have also reported instances of harassment and isolation as a result of their parent’s registration.

So what should you do if you are in this situation — if you are facing criminal charges that could result in a need to register as a sex offender? The following information will help you navigate this situation.

When does Colorado require sex offender registration?

The state generally requires registration on Colorado’s Convicted Sex Offender list for those convicted of felony or violent sex crimes like rape, offenses involving children as well as those convicted of multiple offenses. State law defines multiple offenses as two or more adult felonies for unlawful sexual behavior and one or more adult felony crime of violence. Certain indecent exposure crimes and internet crimes can also result in required registration.

What if I don’t register?

A failure to register is a crime in Colorado.

What are my options?

It is important to know that you do not need to go through this alone. You can hire an attorney experienced in this area of the law to review your case and help advocate for your rights. This can result in a better understanding of your options — including a defense to the charges that have put you in this situation in the first place.

There are also situations where those who are required to register can ask the court to end the registration period. In these situations you may be able to file a Petition to Discontinue Sex Offender Registration, Notice of Hearing on Petition, Order to Discontinue Sex Offender Registration, and Certificate of Mailing – Discontinue Sex Offender Registration to receive review. The court may schedule a hearing where the judge will review and decide whether to end the registration requirement.