California’s strict laws and serious penalties pertaining to sex crimes aim to protect the community. A conviction for a sex crime can negatively impact many aspects of a person’s life, and sex offender registration can significantly disrupt personal and professional life. Here are some key prohibitions that registered sex offenders may face. Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 if you require a free legal consultation.
Residential Restrictions Near Schools and Parks
Jessica’s Law, passed in 2006 in California, initially prohibited registered sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of public and private schools and parks where children regularly gather. Although the law is no longer in effect, the Supreme Court ruled that residency restrictions for sex offenders could still be enforced on a case-by-case basis.
Generally, this means that offenders may still face restrictions living near places where children frequent. High-risk offenders might automatically have some residency restrictions, and violations can result in misdemeanor charges, jail sentences, and fines.
Employment Restrictions Around Children
Registered sex offenders face difficulties in securing employment due to background checks. Offenders convicted for crimes involving minors under 16 years old are expressly prohibited from working in roles such as teaching, childcare, and medicine. For crimes involving victims older than 16, the offender must notify the employer prior to working with children.
Travel Limitations
Travel restrictions can be imposed on sex offenders as part of their parole, probation, or mandatory supervision conditions. While offenders can generally travel between states as long as they comply with each state’s registration requirements, international travel requires offenders to notify their jurisdiction of residence at least three weeks before departure and provide a detailed itinerary. Moving to another state may require clearance from probation or parole officers and adherence to the new state’s registration laws.
Restrictions on Co-habitation
Registered sex offenders may live with their families under certain conditions. For instance, two sex offenders cannot live together unless they are related by blood, marriage, or adoption. In addition, offenders may face restrictions living with individuals under 18 years old if it’s a condition of their parole or probation.
Firearm Ownership Prohibition
Certain sex offenders are banned from owning a firearm. These include offenders with mental disorders, those ruled incompetent to stand trial, or those convicted of a felony sex crime. Offenders found guilty of firearm possession can face up to three years in jail and fines of up to $10,000.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Accusations of sex crimes can profoundly disrupt one’s life. Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 now if you require a free legal consultation from an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you.
