Los Angeles Sex Offender Attorneys

Dedicated Sex Offender Defense Lawyers Representing Clients in Los Angeles, California

If you are convicted of a sex crime in California, you could be met with severe consequences that go beyond jail time and fines. In many cases, you may need to register as a sex offender. Having your name on the registry can impact your personal and professional life, making it difficult to find employment, housing, or even maintain relationships.

This page details must-know information about California's sex offender registry, from what crimes require registration to the consequences for failing to register or committing other related violations. Should you have questions about the state's sex offender registry or want to enlist the help of a lawyer to defend you against accusations of committing a sex crime, contact Zarabi Law. Our firm features skilled criminal defense attorneys with 60+ years of experience fighting for clients in all kinds of criminal cases, including those involving sexual offenses.

Understanding California's Sex Offender Registry

California maintains a public registry of individuals who have been convicted of certain sex crimes in the state. This registry is accessible online, and it is searchable by name, location, and other criteria. The purpose of this database is to inform the public about registered sex offenders living in their communities and to help law enforcement track people convicted of these types of crimes.

The following are some points to understand about California's sex offender registry:

Who Must Register as a Sex Offender in California?

California law requires those convicted of many sex crimes to register as a sex offender. These include, but are not limited to:

• Rape
• Statutory rape
• Sexual assault
• Indecent exposure
• Child molestation or sexual abuse
• Possession of child pornography

Sex Offender Registry Timelines

Depending on the severity of the crime and other factors, those convicted of a sex offense in California may have to register as a sex offender for anywhere from 10 years to life. This timeline can also be affected by any prior convictions or violations related to sexual offenses.

The length of time someone must spend on the registry corresponds with their conviction's tier:

• Tier 1 crimes require registration for 10 years. Examples of such crimes include misdemeanor sexual battery, indecent exposure, and misdemeanor possession of child pornography.
• Tier 2 crimes require registration for 20 years. Examples of such crimes include rape and lewd acts with a minor under 14.
• Tier 3 crimes require lifetime registration. Examples of such crimes include murder committed during rape, most instances of felony sexual battery, and most instances of felony rape.

Registration Duties for Sex Offenders in California

If you are convicted of an offense that requires you to register as a sex offender, you must do so:

• Every year (within five days of your birthday)
• No more than five days after moving

What Is Megan's Law?

Megan's Law is a federal mandate that allows public access to sex offender information. In California, it provides a searchable online database where people can see the names and locations of registered sex offenders in their area. Megan's Law adds another layer of hardship for those who are required to register.

Consequences of Failing to Register as a Sex Offender

If you are required to register as a sex offender but do not, you can face serious legal repercussions. These may include:

• Being charged with a separate criminal offense
• Serving additional jail or prison time
• Facing increased registration and reporting requirements upon release from custody
• Being subject to monitoring by law enforcement

Beyond these things, failing to register as a sex offender can also negatively impact your chances of getting parole or probation.

Can You Remove Your Name from California's Sex Offender Registry?

It varies based on the crime you were convicted of and other details. For those convicted of Tier 1 or Tier 2 sexual offenses, you can petition to have your name removed from the state's registry after you have been registered for the minimum number of required years.

In other situations, you may be relieved of registration requirements by obtaining a certificate of rehabilitation. You can do so seven to ten years after completing parole or probation, and if you have 1) expunged your case, 2) not been incarcerated for another crime, 3) not been ordered to complete felony probation, and 4) lived in the state for at least five years before applying.

If you are hoping to have your name removed from the sex offender registry, consulting with an attorney is a good first step. At Zarabi Law, our knowledgeable Los Angeles sex offender lawyers can help you understand your options and assist you in navigating this complex process.

Contact Our Los Angeles, CA Sex Offender Registration Defense Lawyers

Whether you have been charged with a sex crime or need assistance with your registration status, turn to Zarabi Law. Our team has a notable track record of effectively handling criminal cases. We work hard for our clients and treat them with the utmost respect, regardless of their past or the accusations they face. Contact our Los Angeles sex offender registration attorneys at 213-786-4055 and arrange a free consultation today.