One of the most pernicious and punitive consequences of a sex crime conviction is the requirement to register with the state sex offender registry.
Even after they have served their time and paid their debt to society, the nightmare never ends. Those convicted of child sex crimes may have to register with the state as sex offenders for years, and sometimes for the rest of their lives.
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Sex offender registries make public a convicted sex offender's name and address as well as the charge he or she was convicted of committing. Sex offenders often find it difficult to find a place to live or work, and harassment is commonplace. In one case, a sex offender who had served his sentence was the victim of arson. His home was burned to the ground and his wife died in the fire.
Weighing the Options
Every attorney must take into account the consequences that required sex offender registration may have on a client's life. One of the most difficult decisions to make is whether to accept a plea to a lesser charge that does not require sex offender registration. No innocent person wants to plead guilty, but sometimes it is an option that needs to be explored.
Tom Pavlinic will carefully weigh all of your choices and their potential risks and benefits. In some instances, it is preferable to serve a relatively short sentence in order to avoid the stigma and social consequences of sex crime registry.
While laws regarding sexual offender registration are different in every state, it is important to know that failure to register is a separate crime that can start the legal process all over again.
To discuss your legal options, please contact The Law Office of Thomas A. Pavlinic. The initial consultation is free of charge.
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Tom Pavlinic represents people falsely accused of child sexual abuse throughout the nation.
