July 14, 2023 | Sex Crimes

Being convicted of a sex offense typically brings jail time, probation, and fines. As if this isn’t enough, you may also be required to register as a sex offender, which can have a significant impact on all aspects of your life. In some circumstances, you may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor and plead to a lesser offense so that you aren’t required to register.

It’s important to understand all of your obligations when it comes to sex offender registry, as even a small mistake could land you back in front of a judge. 

When you register as a sex offender, your name, address, and other information is put on a publicly-accessible list for all to see. It’s essential that you keep this information up to date, as failing to do so is a serious violation. But what about neighbors and employers? Are you also required to notify them?

You Are Not Personally Required To Notify Neighbors 

When your name is added to the registry, a notification will automatically go out to all residential neighbors within 1,000 feet of where you reside. 

This information comes from the Sheriff’s Department. A notification might also be sent to other parties, including public children’s services agencies, school districts, daycare centers, and colleges, among others, so you are not required to personally notify your neighbors.

Anyone who is registered as a sex offender in Ohio is prohibited from living within 1,000 feet of a school, so keep this in mind when you’re deciding where to reside.

You Aren’t Required To Tell Employers

If you’re on the registry, you are not required to tell a potential employer about it. However, almost all employers will do a standard background check, and this is something that will almost certainly be seen. 

So while you may not have to explicitly tell them about it, you won’t be able to hide it either. For this reason, it’s sometimes best to have a conversation about what happened up front before they find out about it on their own. 

Who Is Required To Register as a Sex Offender in Ohio?

Under Ohio law, there are three different tiers for different sex crimes that are separated by severity. 

  • Tier I includes unlawful sexual conduct (if the offender is less than 4 years older than the other person), public indecency in front of a minor, and promoting prostitution. If you’ve been convicted of a Tier I crime, you will be required to register as a sex offender for 10 or 15 years, depending on the circumstances (you must re-register annually). 
  • Tier II, which is more severe, includes child pornography, unlawful sexual conduct, and human trafficking. If you’ve been convicted of a Tier II crime, you will be required to register as a sex offender for 25 years (every 180 days).
  • The most severe of them is Tier III, with examples including rape, sexual battery, and gross sexual imposition with a victim under 12 with intent to abuse or harm. If you’ve been convicted of a Tier III crime, you will be required to register as a sex offender for life (every 90 days).

The specifics of your case might impose other requirements as well.

You Must Keep Your Information Up To Date

Sex offenders are required to keep their information up to date with local law enforcement. Changes in address, employment, or other personal details must be reported promptly. Failing to comply with registration and notification requirements can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Contact an Attorney With Experience Defending Against Sex Crimes

It’s helpful to understand the basics of sex offender registry in Ohio; ultimately, however, you should always speak with a lawyer to make sure you’re complying with the law. An attorney can assist you in numerous ways:

  • Review your case: Your attorney will carefully consider your case to ascertain any grounds for appeal or mitigating factors that might reduce registration obligations.
  • Guide you through the registration process: Your attorney can guide you through the sex offender registration process to ensure everything is completed accurately and within the appropriate deadlines. 

In some cases, it is possible to deregister from the sex offender registry in Ohio at the end of your sentence. Your sex crimes attorney can help you determine if and when you are eligible and assist you in taking the appropriate steps to get off of the registry. 

If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a free consultation.

Contact the Cincinnati Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today

For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers give us a call today at (513) 333-0014 or visit us at our Cincinnati law office.

Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Cincinnati
600 Vine Street, Suite 1004
Cincinnati, OH 45202
United States