Being required to register as a sex offender is a serious matter that comes with strict obligations and consequences. You must understand these obligations and take them seriously to avoid further legal issues. 

If you’ve been arrested for a sex crime in West Chester, PA, it’s important to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. 

The West Chester sex crimes lawyers at DiCindio Law, LLC are here to help. Contact our law firm to schedule a free consultation at (610) 850-0321.

How DiCindio Law, LLC Can Help If You’ve Been Charged With a Sex Crime in West Chester, PA 

The law is complex when it comes to sex offender registration and any related cases. The rules are constantly in flux and amendments and modifications are made on a regular basis which makes staying up to date a challenge. That’s why it pays to have an experienced legal team guiding you.

Here’s why DiCindio Law, LLC is the best choice and how we will help you:

  • We have been providing legal assistance since 2014 regarding matters relating to sex offense registration and sex crimes, so we know all the relevant rules and regulations.
  • We will do everything we can to keep you off the registry. But if that isn’t an option, our team will ensure you are aware of all the requirements associated with registering and will answer all your questions.
  • Our lead attorney was a former Chester County prosecutor, giving him a unique perspective that considers both sides of these cases, allowing for more effective representation.

For help with sex offender registration laws in West Chester, Pennsylvania, contact DiCindio Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation.

Overview of the Sex Offender Registry in Pennsylvania

If you have been convicted of a sex crime in Pennsylvania, you need to understand the sex offender registry and its implications for you. Managed by the Pennsylvania State Police, the registry collects information such as your name, photograph, residential address, description of the offense, the city you work in, and more, which can be accessed by the public.

It is important to be aware of the laws that commonly require individuals to be added to the state’s sex offender registry. 

The list of crimes that will lead to registration is vast but can include the following:

  • Child pornography
  • Statutory rape
  • Promoting the prostitution of a minor
  • Sexual exploitation of a child
  • Rape
  • Sexual assault
  • Aggravated indecent assault

It should be noted that there are crimes that may seem minor but could still require placement on the registry in Pennsylvania. For example, if you are convicted of indecent exposure for urinating in public, you could be required to register as a sex offender. 

What Are the Penalties for Sex Offenses in West Chester, Pennsylvania? 

Sex offenses are taken very seriously in Pennsylvania. Those convicted of such crimes face severe penalties, from mandatory jail time to hefty fines and even life-long registration as sex offenders.

Under state law, any person convicted of certain sexual offenses must register with the state’s Sex Offender Registry. This is known as Megan’s Law. Anyone who fails to properly register or keep their information up to date can be charged with a first-, second-, or third-degree felony and will have to spend time in jail. 

Depending on the severity of the underlying offense, the sentence could be much higher – up to life imprisonment for failing to register.

The Pennsylvania State Police may charge an individual with failure to register as a sex offender if they are suspected of committing any of the following violations: 

  • Providing inaccurate information during registration
  • Failing to register with the Pennsylvania State Police
  • Not verifying their address
  • Not being photographed as required

Each of these is considered a separate violation and could result in criminal charges and/or fines for failing to comply with their registration requirements. 

Sex Offender Registry Tiers in Pennsylvania

Depending on the severity of the offense, three tiers of classification could be assigned to an offender.

Tier 1 is the least serious designation and involves those who have been found guilty of indecent exposure or other lesser charges. In this case, the offender will remain on the registry for 15 years and be photographed by state police once a year during that time. 

Tier 2 offenders have been convicted of more serious offenses such as human trafficking or distribution of child pornography and must stay on the registry for 25 years while submitting to being photographed twice annually.

The most severe classification – Tier 3 – includes more heinous acts such as incest involving minors, statutory rape, or involuntary deviate sexual intercourse. These individuals must remain on the registry for life, submitting to photos by the state police four times every year. 
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our West Chester Sex Crimes Attorneys 

With the help of an experienced West Chester criminal defense attorney, you can navigate your responsibilities as a registered sex offender and stay out of further legal trouble. Contact DiCindio Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation to discuss sex offender registration in West Chester, PA.