If a person is under the age of 18 and is convicted of a sex crime, can they be made to register as a sex offender? The answer is, unfortunately, yes – but only in certain situations. While the law is different in different states, you can keep reading to learn what the state of California says. Then contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation.
The Law in California is Different Than in Other States
In California, whether or not a minor convicted of a sex crime can be required to register as a sex offender will depend on whether or not they were incarcerated for specific sex offenses. In other states, it is the age of the child that determines if they have to register. In still other states, it is up to the judge to determine if a juvenile should be required to register as a sex offender.
It Matters if the Child Was Tried as an Adult
In most states, regardless of the child’s age, if they were tried as an adult, then their requirements to register as a sex offender will be the same as if they were an adult. For example, if they are convicted of rape as an adult, then they would have to follow the rules on whether or not an adult convicted of rape is required to register as a sex offender.
Remember that in California, a minor under the age of 14 cannot be tried as an adult no matter what the crime is. Otherwise, the court will consider the child’s age, criminal background, and nature of the crime they are facing to determine if the child should be tried as an adult or a child.
The Severity of the Crime Can Be Relevant
No matter how old the alleged offender is, if they commit a crime that the court feels is a relatively minor sexual offense, they might not be required to register as a sex offender. Remember that the rules vary greatly by state. For example, in Florida, a person convicted of statutory rape must register as a sex offender, while they are not required to do so in California.
Hiring the Right Criminal Defense Attorney is the Most Important Thing to Do
No matter the age of the alleged perpetrator or what charge they are facing, the best thing you can do is to contact a criminal defense attorney to assure that they get a fair shake and the best possible defense. You can call Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation.
