Just about everyone has a basic understanding that most sex crimes also result in mandatory registration on the sex offender registry. What you may not know is that while every state has a sex offender registry, each one has a different set of laws detailing the rights and responsibilities of those on the list. That means that sex offenders who wish to move to a new state will face a unique set of challenges if they wish to take up residency in another state. In many cases, it may be advisable for convicted sex offenders to speak with a San Diego sex crimes lawyer before moving out of state or into California in order to ensure the move remains in compliance with the law.

First of all, while it is completely legal to move to another state while on the sex offender registry, it may not be if you are on probation. While on probation a person needs an interstate compact agreement where the state being moved to agrees to accept the probationer. If you have any questions about whether or not you have completed all the terms of your probation, always talk to your San Diego sex offender attorney before making the move.

Assuming you have completed your probation, you should be aware that moving to a new state will not help you escape the consequences of being a registered sex offender and you will have to register in your new state of residence. In California, moving to a new city or state requires you to notify your previous registration agency in writing within five days of the move and you must re-register in person to your new registration agency. Registering in person in the new state will also provide you the opportunity to learn every thing you need to know about the sex offender registry laws in your new area.

As many sex offenders are transient, California law also specifies that because transients re-register every 30 days, they do not need to re-register when moving to a new city, but will still need to provide written notification before leaving the state within five days of the move.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that even if you live in another state, but still work or attend school in California, even on a part time basis, you must still register as a sex offender in California. Many other states have similar laws, so again, if you have any questions about moving or traveling between states as a convicted sex offender, it is always advisable to speak with your San Diego sex crimes attorney.

If you have any questions about any aspect of life on the sex offender registry, San Diego sex crime defense lawyer Peter M. Liss can help. Please call (760) 643-4050 or (858) 486-3024 to schedule a free initial consultation.

Creative Commons Image by Matthew W. Jackson