Sex Offender Registration

If you have been convicted of a sexual offense in the state of New York, depending upon the offense, you may be required to register as a sex offender with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice (DCJS) for a period of 20 years to life. Having proven legal counsel of a criminal defense attorney from our firm can make a tremendous difference in the results of your case and the issue of sex offender. Once you have been required to register with the DCJS you will have certain requirement that you must maintain which may include:

• Maintaining of a current photograph with local law enforcement
• Notifying the DCJS within 10 days of any move
• Providing information regarding your internet service provider, email accounts, screen names and passwords
• Personal verification of your address every 90 days

Your name, address, photograph and type of sexual offense you have been convicted of will be posted on a national sex offender registry on line and will be available at local law enforcement agencies. This situation may follow you for a long time if you are unable to provide a defense of your sexual offenses charges that will reap an acquittal. Retain the services of a skilled sex offenses attorney as soon as possible to give you the best chance of victory.

About the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act

On January 21, 1996, the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) took effect. This law worked with law enforcement officers throughout the state to help provide adequate safety to New York communities by allowing them to remain informed about all sex offenders living in their area. Those who have been convicted of certain sexual offenses in New York or a sex crime in another jurisdiction that is comparable to a New York offense will be required to register should they move or live in the NY area.

Under SORA, offenders will be classified depending on their perceived level of risk. This ranges from Level 1, which is low risk, to Level 3, which is high risk. The website online with all information regarding information about registered sex offenders will only provide the public information about those who are classified as Level 2 and Level 3. Information about Level 1 offenders is not publically released on the website.

Common Questions About Sex Offender Registration

At Perez & Cedeño, we know that dealing with possibility of a sexual offense is difficult. For this reason, we remain committed to provide our clients with the high-quality and reliable legal assistance that they fully deserve. We have also compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions below. If you have further questions about sex offender registration, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible.

Who is legally required to register as a sex offender?
In the state of New York, anyone who has been convicted of a "registerable sex offense" will need to register after completing any probation or incarceration. Registerable offenses include luring a child, sodomy, sexual abuse and more. Click here to see all registerable sex offenses.

Is there a difference between sex offender and sexual predator?
Both are people who have been convicted of a sex offense; however, a sexual predator is one who has committed a crime that is deemed to be "sexually violent." They are also people who are deemed to have a predisposition that makes them more likely to offend again.

How long will I need to be registered for?
If convicted and classified as a Level 1 offender, you will need to be registered for a minimum of 20 years, however, there are certain circumstances which may call for longer registration periods (ex: classification as sexual predator). For Level 2 and Level 3 offenders, registration is for life.

What happens if I am convicted for failing to register?
The failure to register under SORA is a felonious act, which will be convicted as a Class E felony. If you have already been convicted and are charged again, it will be tried as a Class D felony.

Are there certain jobs I won't be able to get if I register?
Almost all employers will run some sort of background check during the hiring process. Certain occupations will gain fingerprints and will rule out those convicted of sex crimes (ex: teachers). Beyond that, SORA does specify that someone who has been convicted may not work on an ice cream truck.

If you have more questions or if you would like to discuss your situation with an experienced legal professional, do not hesitate to contact our firm today. We recognize what is on the line when facing the possibility of mandatory registration as a sex offender and will fight to protect your freedom and your future. We know what is at stake and what can occur from a conviction. You can trust that we will go above and beyond in our efforts to help you combat the charges. Call today to learn more!