Failing to Register as a Sex Offender Can Have Serious Consequences
In St. Paul, Maplewood, Roseville, and throughout Ramsey County, Minnesota, individuals convicted of certain sex crimes must adhere to strict sex offender registration requirements under Minnesota Statutes § 243.166. Failure to comply with these rules can result in serious legal consequences. If you are facing charges for failing to register as a sex offender in Ramsey County, it’s critical to seek advice from a qualified sex crimes defense attorney.
“A new charge is a huge deal. If you are still on probation for the underlying charges, it can be far worse than the original sentence.”
Failing to Register: A Criminal Offense
In Minnesota, failing to register as a sex offender is not just an oversight—it's a criminal offense. Individuals who fail to follow the state’s registration laws can be arrested and charged for this violation. Some common reasons for facing charges include:
Failing to register after a conviction for a sex crime.
Not updating registration details when moving, changing employment, or modifying vehicle information.
Neglecting to register with local authorities when moving to Minnesota from out of state.
Consequences of Failing to Register
Minnesota takes the failure to register as a sex offender very seriously, and the penalties can be severe. If convicted, you may face:
Extended Registration Requirement: A conviction for failing to register can result in an additional five years added to your required registration period.
Probation Revocation: If you are on probation for a prior offense, violating registration laws can lead to the revocation of your probation, potentially requiring you to serve time for your original conviction.
Incarceration: A conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of one year and one day in prison, with the possibility of up to five years behind bars.
Legal Defenses for Failing to Register
If you are charged with failing to register, there may be defenses available to you. Working with an experienced defense attorney is essential to exploring your options. Some possible defenses include:
Lack of knowledge of the registration requirement.
Clerical errors or misunderstandings regarding your registration obligations.
Failure of others (such as probation officers or caseworkers) to properly notify you of registration changes.
Why You Need an Experienced Attorney
Failing to register as a sex offender is a serious charge, and the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office aggressively prosecutes these cases. Having an experienced sex crimes defense lawyer on your side can help you understand your legal rights and options, and build a strong defense.
“Jack Rice Defense has the local experience and in-depth knowledge necessary to handle these complex cases. We’ve been working in the area for years, and we know how to navigate the legal system in Ramsey County.”
Contact Jack Rice Defense for Legal Assistance
If you are facing charges for failing to register as a sex offender, the experienced team at Jack Rice Defense is here to help. We offer expert legal counsel and aggressive representation to protect your rights and your future.
For a confidential consultation, contact us today at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. Don’t face these charges alone—trust Jack Rice Defense to stand by your side.