Just about everyone has a basic understanding that bring convicted of most sex crimes will 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 under Megan’s Law, each one has a different set of laws detailing the rights and responsibilities of those on the list. That means if a sex offender moves to another state, they will face a unique set of challenges before and after the move. In many cases, it may be advisable for convicted sex offenders to contact a sex crimes lawyer before moving out of or into California in order to ensure the move is in compliance with the law.
Sex Offender Laws About Moving to Another State
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. In fact, just traveling out of the county while on probation can result in a probation violation in many cases.
If you have any questions about whether or not you have completed all the terms of your probation, always contact your defense attorney before making the move to avoid committing a crime by violating your probation.
You Still Remain on the Sex Offender Registry
It’s worth mentioning that even if their probation is completed, if a sex offender moves to another state, they will still be required to register in their new state of residence. Moving is not a way to avoid the requirements of Megan’s Law and some form of sex sex offender registration list is active in every state.
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 all the information you need to know about the sex offender registry laws in your new area.
A Note About Transient Sex Offenders
As many sex offenders are transient and live without a permanent home, 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.
You Also Must Register in the State Where You Work
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 sexual registration laws for employees and students, so again, if you have any questions about moving or traveling between states as a registered sex offender, it is always advisable to speak with your lawyer.
If you have any questions about any aspect of life on the sex offender registry, criminal defense lawyer Peter M. Liss can help. Please contact his office (760) 643-4050 or (858) 486-3024 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Creative Commons Image by Matthew W. Jackson
