Crimes involving sexual conduct are serious because not only do they carry the consequences of other criminal offenses, but they also subject you to registering as a sexual offender. Being labelled a sex offender can mean you have to register with your local law enforcement agency for a minimum of 10 years. Depending on the charge, you may even have to register for the rest of your life.

 

And don’t think just because you move that your requirement to register stays in California. Most states have reciprocal sex offender registry laws. Meaning even if you leave to try and start a new life, you will likely have to register as a sex offender in your new state.

 

The sex offender registry is also made public. It is not uncommon for employers or apartment owners to deny an applicant employment or housing because the applicant registers as a sex offender. Thus, if you are facing charges that are sexual in nature, it is important you hire an attorney who knows the ins and outs of such offenses. While you may not be facing jail time for your particular offense, hiring the wrong attorney could mean being labelled a “sexual predator” the rest of your life.