Being convicted of criminal charges can result in a number of penalties, which can range in severity depending on the nature of the offense, the person’s previous criminal record, and other factors. Among the different types of offenses, sex crimes are some of the most serious, since a person will not only face consequences such as fines and imprisonment but they may also be required to register as a sex offender. People in Connecticut who have been accused of sexual offenses will want to understand whether a conviction will cause their name to be listed in the sex offender registry, and by working with a skilled criminal defense lawyer, they can determine their best options for addressing these charges and avoiding penalties that will affect their lives, their freedom, and their reputation.
Sex Offender Registration Requirements
The requirements a person must follow when registering as a sex offender will depend on the nature of their offense. A person who is convicted of a sexually violent offense, such as first-degree sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, or aggravated sexual assault of a minor, will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of their life. A person who is convicted of a nonviolent sexual offense, such as second-degree or third-degree sexual assault, will be required to register as a sex offender for 10 years. Following a second conviction for a nonviolent sexual offense, a person will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
The requirement to register as a sex offender begins after a person is released into the community, including those who are sentenced to probation, those who are released on parole, and those who have completed a prison sentence. Within three days after being released, a person must notify the Connecticut Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection, providing them with their name and address, as well as their email address and other accounts used online, their identifying characteristics, and their criminal record. A person will also be required to immediately update their registration if they move to a new address or make any other changes to the information included in the registry.
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