Twin Cities Sex Crimes Lawyer Talks Convictions and Charges that Require Sex Offender Registration

“So if I’m convicted of a sex crime, do I have to register as a sex offender?” Its a question I have been asked again and again over the years. As a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, its one of the areas I have spent an enormous amount of my practice. So, here is an answer. It isn’t simple and it isn’t easy and if this applies to you, we need to sit down and talk. Give Sex Crimes Lawyer Jack Rice a call.

There are a whole series of charges that require somebody convicted to register as a sex offender. Most of these are known as CSC charges or criminal sexual conduct charges from rape to statutory rape and more. Frequently they are known as sex crimes. However, other charges include certain types of prostitution, child pornography and other charges. The sex offender registration requirements that were put in place by the Minnesota Legislature and signed by the Governor cannot be waived by agreement between lawyers, the Judge or probation. Some can last a decade and some are for a lifetime.

One additional and difficult aspect of registration is that you don’t even need to be convicted of the charges themselves. That’s right. You read that correctly. You don’t even have to be convicted of the charges to be required to register. In fact, if you are charged with an offense that would require registration, despite the concept of presumption of innocence, if you are found guilty of any offense, any offense arising from those charges, you will be required to registration as if you were convicted of the underlying sex crime. So, in other words, lets assume that a jury finds you not guilty of rape and determined that you didn’t do it, that the complaining witness lied, but decided that you were simply disorderly and found you guilty of a misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge, you will still have to register. That is the law in Minnesota. It might seem unfair or unjust but that’s the law.

So to review:

What are some of the Charges that Require Registration?

Sexual Assault, Statutory Rape, Sexual Contact, Solicitation of a Minor, Possession of Child Pornography, Felony Indecent Exposure, Kidnapping and more.

How long would I have to register?

If depends. Some cases require 10 years of registration. However, there are some charges that will require a lifetime registration. It is important to understand the ramifications of both.

What happens if I fail to Register?

Failing to register is actually a crime and you can be charged with failing to register, a felony. Also, if you are still on probation, that can violate the conditions of your probation on the underlying sex charge. They could come at you from both directions. As a result, if this is the case, this requires immediate action.

As you can see, the law when it comes to sex crimes in Minnesota can be draconian and it is important for you the have a criminal defense lawyer who not only understands the law but knows how to effectively fight these kinds of charges in the first place. It takes knowledge and experience and a lot of time to know what it takes to win. If you need help, call Jack Rice Defense. He has helped people charged with Sex crimes for decades. 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.