How Long Will I Stay on the Sex Offender Registry in Utah?

 Posted on September 11,2024 in Sex crimes

Most people have heard of the sex offender registry, but if you have never been charged with sex crimes before, you likely do not know exactly what it entails. When your name appears on that list, you have to abide by serious limitations to what you can do and where you can go, and your name and reputation will be associated with the crime you allegedly committed. Fortunately, names do not necessarily need to stay on the registry permanently. This article will explain what happens when you are included in the sex offender registry and when you might be removed from it. To learn more, speak with a knowledgeable Salt Lake City, UT criminal defense lawyer.

Restrictions for Sex Offenders in Utah

When you are convicted as a sex offender, you are subject to various restrictions. Some of these include:

• Places you cannot go: These tend to include places where children gather, like daycares, parks, playgrounds, schools, and public swimming pools.

• Jobs you cannot have: Some of these are due to their location if the job is located in a place where you are not allowed to go. For example, you cannot work as a school janitor because you will not be permitted to enter a school. Other jobs are closed off to you because some fields require a clean criminal background to be hired.

When Can You Get Your Name off the Sex Offender Registry?

The amount of time you need to remain on the sex offenders registry depends on the crime you are accused of committing. There are many crimes for which a person will need to stay on the registry for ten years following the completion of their sentence. More severe crimes require someone to remain on the registry for life. There are three main timelines for remaining on the sex offender registry, as follows:

• You will likely remain on the registry for at least five years if you are convicted of indecent exposure or voyeurism. 

• You might remain on the registry for at least ten years if you are convicted of lewdness, attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, or unlawful sexual activity with a minor.

• You can stay on the registry for life if you are convicted of sexual battery, sexual abuse of a child, sexual exploitation of a minor, or aggravated sexual assault.

Lifetime registration is not generally up for negotiation, but under specific conditions, Utah law allows requests for removal from the registry. While you might not be completely removed from the registry, you might get modified terms. To be considered, you must demonstrate compliance with registration requirements, rehabilitation, and positive community involvement. Eligibility for early removal from lifetime registration is very rare and requires significant evidence and legal arguments.

How Can I Get My Name Off the Sex Offender Registry

The process of getting removed from the registry includes:

• Filing a petition with the court that demonstrates your eligibility for removal, including proof of compliance with the terms of the registration and information about rehabilitation and conduct.

• Attending a court hearing aimed at deciding whether you meet the criteria for removal. The prosecution and alleged victims of the crime you were convicted of might be invited to share how they feel about this petition.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Davis County, UT Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are interested in getting removed from the sex offender registry, speak with an experienced Salt Lake City, UT criminal defense attorney to review your options. At Collins Rupp, P.C. we understand how damaging registration can be for many parts of your life, and we will passionately fight to protect your rights. Call us at 385-777-2753 to schedule a free consultation.