People who are convicted of certain sex offenses in California are required to register as sex offenders under penal code section 290 and are told that this registration is a lifetime requirement. The lifetime requirement language is written into the penal code and many registered sex offenders believe that there is no way for them to stop registering as a result. The stigma of being a registered sex offender typically has devastating effects on that person’s job opportunities, relationships, and quality of life.
Despite the lifetime requirement language in Penal Code 290, there are certain sex offenses where registration can be stopped by obtaining a “Certificate of Rehabilitation”. A Certificate of Rehabilitation is basically a declaration by a judge that person has been rehabilitated and is no longer a threat to society. This certificate will not stop the registration requirement for all sex crimes but will stop the registration requirement for others. That is why it is extremely important to consult with an experienced sex crimes defense attorney anytime you are charged with a crime that would require registration if convicted. Sometimes it won’t be possible to avoid the registration requirement but plea deals can be negotiated where a person charged with a crime that would require lifetime registration with no exceptions can be negotiated to a crime where a certificate will stop the registration requirement.
If you or a loved one is a registered sex offender or is facing sex crimes charges in Southern California, it is important that you contact an experienced sex crimes attorney. At Wallin & Klarich, our attorneys have over 30 years of experience in handling all types of sex crimes. Our attorneys are highly knowledgeable in sex crimes law. We will aggressively fight to defend your rights and get you the best possible result in your case. Call us today at (877) 466-5245. We will be there when you call.
