People who are facing sex-related charges often have several things that they are worried about. Incarceration might be at the top of the list. Another big issue that they face is the sex offender registry. Having to register as a sex offender is something that can have a negative impact on your life and it is one reason why some people fight against sex-related charges.
Having to register as a sex offender means that people can find out what you were convicted of, what you look like because of the photo requirement, where you live and any aliases you might use. All of this information must be included on the registry.
Each state is required to maintain a sex offender registry. There is also a national registry; however, this registry isn’t viewable by the public. Instead, it is a tool for law enforcement officials. Members of the public have the option of searching the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Sex Offender Public Website to find out information in a specific jurisdiction or to search information provided by all registries in the country.
Not all sex-related convictions require a person to register, so be sure you know if you will have to register. If you are required to register, you must keep up with the requirements. This includes providing an accurate address and other information, reporting any changes promptly and report in as required.
If you are required to register as a sex offender, be sure that you do what is required of you. If you don’t, you might find yourself in more legal trouble. Of course, presenting a defense against the charge you are facing is one way that might be able to avoid having to live the rest of your days under a microscope.
Source: FindLaw, “The Sex Offender Registry: What You Need To Know,” accessed Jan. 11, 2017