Words cannot express how grateful I am to you...
- Wendy C. 
Los Angeles Megan's Law Attorneys 
Megan's Law Overview
In an effort to notify parents of potentially dangerous sex offenders in their neighborhood, California enacted Megan's Law. Convicted sex offenders are legally required to register with the local law enforcement every year and whenever they move to a new area. Registered sex offenders have their addresses and sometimes even their photographs posted online for all to see. While it is easy to see how this can be a valuable tool for parents, it can also be a devastating punishment for someone who has been wrongfully convicted of a sex crime. Megan's Law is prime example of why it is crucial for anyone charged with a sex crime to hire a reputed sex crime defense attorney who will fight for his or her rights.
California Penal Code 290
Sexual offenders, "for the rest of his or her life while residing in California, or while attending school or working in California…shall be required to register with the chief of police of the city in which he or she is residing." The Megan's Law database will usually show the person's name, photo, height, weight, eye color and aliases .The Megan's Law database is easy to view for anyone with an Internet connection. Being labeled as a sex offender for the rest of your life is a serious penalty that may present serious challenges such as finding a job, going to school or even finding a decent place to live.
Sex Crimes that Result in Requirement to Register as a Sex Offender
There are many sex crimes in California that result in the offender having to register under Megan's Law. A few examples are:
- Penal Code 261 - Rape involving force or fear
- Penal Code 288 - Felony lewd acts with a minor
- Penal Code 269 - Aggravated sexual assault of a child
- Penal Code 288a - Acts of Oral Copulation
- Penal Code 286 - Acts of sodomy
- Penal Code 243.4 (a) - Sexual battery by restraint
- Penal Code 647.6 - Misdemeanor child molestation
Depending upon the severity of the crime, sex offenders may have their full address displayed on the Megan's Law database or they may have to only submit their zip code.
Clearing a Sex Offender Status
There are a few different ways to remove a sex offender status. That depends upon many factors including the type of crime you were originally convicted for. Some crimes may be expunged from your criminal record once you successfully complete your probation. Expunging your criminal record does not, however, exempt you from your obligation to register as a sex offender. One option that does allow you to stop registering as a sex offender is to obtain a certificate of rehabilitation. This becomes possible within seven to 10 years after your probation period.
If you are facing sex crime charges and you would like more information about the penalties you may face, please contact the Los Angeles sex crimes attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP. We understand the serious consequences you face if convicted of a sex crime. We're here to fight for your rights and obtain the best possible result in your case. Please call us today to find out how we can help.
If you have been arrested for a megan's law offense then please call us immediately for a FREE CONSULTATION at (888) 579-4844.
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