Who Needs to Register as a Sex Offender in California?

Posted on: April 11th, 2023 by Dod Law

California Sex Offender Registry

For those convicted of a sex crime in California, the consequences can be far-reaching beyond serving out their sentence. In accordance with California law, those individuals must register as sex offenders, which means that their personal information, including their name and address, will be made publicly available online. This can make it difficult to find employment, housing, or even a place to worship, as they often face restrictions on where they can live and travel.  Learn more about California sex offender registry.

At Dod Law, APC, we understand the unique challenges facing those convicted of a sex crime. We are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect their rights. In this article, we will explain who needs to register as a sex offender in California and what the registration process entails.

What Is the California Sex Offender Registry?

The California Department of Justice (DOJ) maintains a public database of individuals convicted of certain sex offenses. This database is known as the California Sex Offender Registry (CSOR). It contains information about those convicted of such offenses in the state, including their names, addresses, physical descriptions, and photographs.

Each offender is separated into one of three tiers that determines how long they must remain on the registry:

• Low-Risk: Tier 1 offenders must register for at least 10 years after their conviction
• Moderate-Risk: Tier 2 offenders must register for at least 20 years after their conviction
• High-Risk: Tier 3 offenders will be required to stay on the registry for life

In addition to the registry, there are also restrictions on where certain offenders can live. However, the law was changed from applying uniform restrictions to allowing judges to consider each offender’s individual circumstances when deciding where they can live on a case-by-case basis.

Each person on the registry must regularly update their information, including their address, employment, and any other changes in their life. Furthermore, those on the registry must report to the DOJ in person at least once a year.

Award Winning Criminal Defense Attorney Dod Ghassemkhani Discusses Sex Registration

Understanding the CSOR Risk Tiers and Associated Offenses

As stated above, there are three tiers of sex offender risk in California. The tiers are based on the severity of the offense and the risk of re-offense. In general, the higher the tier, the more serious the offense and the higher the risk of re-offense. 

It is important to note that the CSOR is constantly changing and evolving. In order to remain compliant, those on the registry must stay up to date with the latest laws and regulations. The offenses that are associated with each tier are as follows:

Tier 1

This is the lowest risk level and requires the offender to remain on the registry for at least 10 years. Examples of crimes that require registration under this tier include sexual battery, meeting a minor with lewd purposes, indecent exposure, and sodomy.

Tier 2

This is the moderate risk level and requires the offender to remain on the registry for at least 20 years. Examples of crimes that require registration under this tier include rape, non-consensual oral copulation, and contacting a minor to commit a felony.

Tier 3

This is the highest risk level and requires the offender to remain on the registry for life. Examples of crimes that require registration under this tier include kidnapping with the intent to commit a sexual offense, forcible sexual penetration, and murder with sexual motivation.

How Registrants Maintain Compliance

It is important for those on the registry to understand their rights and responsibilities. The CSOR requires that all registrants update their information and take certain steps to ensure compliance. 

Registrants must update the DOJ with any changes to their address, employment, or other relevant information within five days of the change. They are also required to appear in person at the DOJ to update their information at least once a year, including within five days of their birthday each year.

In addition to updating the DOJ of a change in residence, if the offender moves to a new city, they are required to notify local law enforcement of their arrival. Transient offenders are required to check in with the DOJ every 30 days, while more violent offenders may be required to check in every 90 days.

How the California DOJ Determines If a Registrant has Met the Mandatory Minimum Registration Period

The time period for registration begins from the date of the conviction. However, if the offender fails to comply with the registration requirements, their registration period will be extended. Currently, failing to meet the registration requirements can lead to a misdemeanor or felony charge.

For each misdemeanor violation conviction, the period of registration will be extended by one year and felony violations result in a three year extension, not counting the time during incarceration. If during the time the offender is required to maintain registration they are convicted of a new crime, their minimum registration period will be extended to the maximum registration period for the new offense.

Contact Dod Law, APC Today For Help With Your Case – California Sex Offender Registry

For those accused of a sex offense in California, the consequences of conviction can reverberate for years. These consequences include having to register as a sex offender and the potential to face significant jail time. Not only can this have an emotional toll, but it can also interfere with an individual’s life and their ability to gain employment or find housing. Because of the serious nature of these consequences, it is important for those facing conviction and registration as a sex offender in California to contact Dod Law, APC to speak with an experienced lawyer.

We understand the impact a sex offense conviction can have on an individual’s life. Our legal team is dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients and works hard to ensure the best possible outcome for each case. We provide over 18 years of skilled legal advice and representation and have the knowledge and resources to fight for the most favorable outcome for our clients. Contact us online or call us at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Vista office 760-814-6025 today to schedule a free consultation.