Georgia Sex Offender Registration Laws
Unlike offenders convicted of virtually any other type of crime, those found guilty of sexually based offenses face serious repercussions even after they have completed their prison sentences and/or terms of probation. Most states have adopted laws that require sex offenders to register their information periodically with law enforcement so that the authorities – and the public in general – can keep track of offenders in their communities. In addition, restrictions may be placed on sex offenders that prohibit them from working at, living in, or visiting certain locations, often in an attempt to keep them away from children.
The state of Georgia has particularly severe laws when it comes to sex offenders. Those deemed to be sexual predators must register with their local authorities promptly and regularly, for the rest of their lives – unless they successfully petition for removal from the registry. They are restricted from living within 1,000 feet of schools, churches, parks, school bus stops and a number of other places where children tend to gather. They are prohibited from working or volunteering at any school, childcare facility, church or other place catering to children – or to work at any business within 1,000 feet of such a place. Predictably, this has led to a high rate of homelessness and unemployment for those on the registry. (For more information on these restrictions, visit our Residence and Employment Restrictions page.)
The difficulty of rebuilding one's life as a registered sex offender leads some to avoid their registration requirements. This however, is not the answer and could easily result in a trip (or return) to prison. It is important to fulfill all your responsibilities regarding registering with local authorities and keeping your information up to date, especially if you want to eventually gain removal from the registry. Unfortunately, the process can be confusing to those unfamiliar with the system and even a small, inadvertent mistake can lead to a conviction for Failure to Register As A Sex Offender. This offense is taken very seriously by the authorities and can result in a lengthy prison sentence. It is best to work with an attorney knowledgeable in the ins-and-outs of sex offender registration who can guide you through the process. (For more information on the steps you need to take to register, visit our Registration Process page.)
Can a Lawyer Help Me Get Off the Sex Offender Registry?
While Georgia's sex offender registration laws are quite harsh, there has been a somewhat successful effort in recent years to make them fairer and more effective. The registration system was originally intended to protect the larger community from dangerous sexual predators, who have relatively high rates of recidivism. By preventing these criminals from having access to the most vulnerable in society (children), and giving people information on potential threats in their neighborhoods, these laws were meant to protect people. However, after watching sex offender registries operate across the country for the past couple of decades, many shortcomings in the system have been identified. The main complaint is that those guilty of less serious offenses are lumped in with – and subjected to the same restrictions as – violent, habitual sexual predators. While the latter are likely to reoffend, the former often pose no serious threat to society.
In 2010, the Georgia legislature reformed the sex offender registration system, allowing for certain categories of people to petition for removal from the list. Instead of lumping everyone into the same category, this move recognized that every case should be judged on its own merit. Since then, many offenders have demonstrated to the review board that they have been successfully rehabilitated and are committed to being constructive members of society. Once the stigma of being a registered sex offender is lifted, these individuals have the chance to reintegrate into their communities and lead normal, productive lives.
If you believe you or a loved one is a good candidate for sex offender registration removal, contact the Berry Law Group for a consultation. The process is complicated and knowing how to navigate the system is key to a successful outcome. Having an attorney experienced with sex crimes is critical to putting forth your best case to the review board. (For more information on the removal process, visit our Sex Offender Registry Removal page.)