MenuIf you have been charged with a sex crime in Michigan, you may be required to register your name on the Michigan sex offender registry. Even if you do not, having a sex crime conviction on your record can substantially affect your life. Apart from the obvious consequences like jail time, fines, or probation, you may also face collateral consequences like denial of housing applications or job opportunities. The Michigan sex offender registry consists of names of people who have committed specific sex crimes in Michigan so that the public can be aware of those who have offended. This article will discuss the Michigan sex offender registry, the various classifications, and the consequences of having your name on the registry.
Michigan Sex Crimes Representation You Can Trust
If you have been charged with a sex crime in Michigan, knowing what to do or whom to turn to can be challenging. The stigma associated with these kinds of charges is hard to overcome. The public or the criminal justice system will often assume you are guilty before any facts, evidence, or arguments have been presented. You must remember that you are innocent until proven guilty in all criminal proceedings. When you face these kinds of consequences, it is crucial to have an experienced sex crimes attorney on your side.
An experienced sex crimes attorney can help protect your rights and interests and present the best defense possible. George Law, sex crimes attorneys understand the gravity of sex crimes charges and are ready to defend you. To learn more or schedule your free initial case consultation, call 248-247-7459 or visit our website today.
Michigan Sex Offender Registry
The purpose of the Michigan sex offender registry is to place the names of those who have committed sex crimes on the list so that members of the public can be aware of their presence and movement. Sexual offenses and their classification are determined by the crime committed, the age of those involved, and whether you are likely to re-offend.
Following these guidelines, the sex offender registry places individual crimes in different groups, called tiers. Depending on the severity of the offense, you may be placed in any tier from one to three. Tier 1 offenses impose the least severe penalties, while tier 3 imposes the most.
Tier 1 Sex Offenses
- Possession of child pornography
- A sex offense committed by a sexually delinquent person
- Unlawful imprisonment or restraint of a minor
- Indecent exposure with fondling in front of a child
- 4th Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) against a victim aged 18 or older
Tier 2 Sex Offenses
- Crime Against Nature of Sodomy, if the victim is under 18 but older than 13
- Accosting, Enticing, or Soliciting a Child for Immoral Purposes
- 2nd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, if the victim is older than 13 but younger than 18
- Distributing or Promoting Child Sexually Abusive Material
Tier 3 Sex Offenses
- Assault with intent to commit penetration (CSC 1st degree or CSC 3rd degree)
- Gross indecency against a victim under the age of 13
- 2nd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct against a victim younger than 13
- 1st Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (rape or other forced sexual penetration)
- 3rd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
Read more in our blog: Rape Criminal Defense Lawyer FAQ
Sex Offender Tier Registration Requirements
For each offense, regardless of tier, registered offenders must provide the following information when initially reporting and updating registration:
- Name
- Birth date
- Registration number
- Photograph
- Registration details
- Physical characteristics or identifying traits (scars, marks, tattoos)
- Known aliases
- Offense information
- Address
- Employment
- Vehicle identification information
If you are convicted of a Tier 1 offense, you must verify the above information once a year for 15 years. For those convicted of a Tier 2 offense, you must identify this information twice a year for 25 years. Finally, Tier 3 offenders must provide the above information for the rest of their lives four times a year.
The reporting requirements become more extreme as the tiers increase due to the significant adverse effects of the underlying conviction on victims and the public.
What To Do If You Are Accused Of A Sex Crime In Michigan
If you are convicted of a sex crime in Michigan, it is crucial that you act quickly to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. It does not take long for the court of public opinion to reach a decision even before your case sees a courtroom. A Michigan criminal defense attorney can help you manage your case and protect your rights and interests along the way. It is often the case that many will judge that you are guilty before you have even been allowed to defend yourself. Regardless of the circumstances, it is essential to remember that in all criminal cases, you are innocent until proven guilty. Your attorney can help ensure you receive the representation you deserve and have your voice heard.
Hiring A Michigan Sex Crimes Attorney
When you need skilled criminal defense representation, contact George Law. George Law criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in their sex crimes and other criminal defense cases. George Law criminal defense attorneys understand the stakes involved with these cases and are dedicated to representing you. Our attorneys will ensure that your case receives the attention it deserves and the representation it requires from start to finish. To learn more or schedule your free initial case consultation, call 248-247-7459 or visit our website today.