This is the next post in my series on the handling of sex-related charges in Austin, Texas. My last article discussed the process of defending against pornography related charges. Such cases may involve search and seizure issues or questions of fact which may be raised at trial. It is critical that you retain a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in handling such matters in order to ensure that your rights remain fully protected. In this article I will discuss an issue which, unfortunately, arises often – the potential penalties one faces for failing to register as a sex offender. If you or a loved one have been arrested then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
The penalties for failing to register as a sex offender will vary. This variance is due to the fact that any penalty will be determined by the amount of time for which the individual was required to maintain their registration. If, for example, an individual was required to maintain their registration for a period of ten years they can receive a sentence ranging from six months to two years. If, however, the individual was required to maintain their registration for the rest of their life, then they face a potential penalty of up to ten years in prison. A mistake as simple as failing to notify authorities of a change of address can lead to these very serious charges.
Failing to maintain one’s registration can also serve as a basis to revoke their probation or parole. In addition to facing new criminal charges, a defendant on probation or parole for the underlying sex offense who fails to register or to update their registration could face revocation of their supervision and a prison sentence for violating a condition of supervision.
If you or a loved one have been charged for failing to register as a sex offender, then contact my office today to speak with an Austin criminal defense lawyer. I have been practiced to license law since 1995 and am certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization as a specialist in criminal law. I also serve the cities of Rollingwood, Round Rock, Elgin, Jonestown, Manor, Bee Cave, Lago Vista, Sunset Valley, Lakeway, Creedmoor, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, and San Marcos, Texas.