At the law firm of Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C., our attorneys are dedicated to developing the best possible defenses for each of our clients. This level of commitment can be especially pivotal for cases that fall under Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law, as they can carry high-stakes legal consequences.
The Pennsylvania State Police explain that, under Megan’s Law, the department must keep a register of those who were convicted of certain types of sex crimes. These include rape, sexual assault, involuntary deviant sexual intercourse, institutional sexual assault, indecent assault and aggravated indecent assault. Some sex crimes that fall under Megan’s Law specifically involve minors, such as statutory sexual assault, incest of a minor, promoting prostitution of a minor, sexual abuse of children, and sexual exploitation of children.
According to the PSP, it is an offense for someone to knowingly fail to register with the department if he or she is required to do so. It is also an offense if sex offenders do not properly verify their addresses, do not allow themselves to be photographed as the law requires, or do not provide accurate information at the time of registration.
When a person is facing a sex crime conviction, the potential consequences can feel very scary. The attorneys at our law firm understand this, and they will work hard to clear your good name so you can move on with your life.
Understanding Sex Offender Registration
Sex offender registration is a crucial process designed to enhance public safety by keeping track of individuals convicted of certain sex crimes. When someone is convicted of a qualifying sex offense, they are required to provide personal and identifying information to local law enforcement agencies.
This information includes details such as their name, address, date of birth, and physical description. The collected data is then made available to the public through a sex offender registry. This registry serves as a vital tool for communities, allowing residents to be aware of potential sex offenders in their area and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.
Types of Sex Offenses That Require Registration
Several types of sex offenses necessitate registration, ensuring that those convicted of these crimes are monitored by law enforcement. These offenses include:
- Aggravated Sexual Abuse: Severe forms of sexual abuse involving violence or threats.
- Abusive Sexual Contact: Unwanted sexual contact that is offensive or harmful.
- Sexual Assault: Non-consensual sexual acts, including rape.
- Sexual Offense: A broad category encompassing various illegal sexual activities.
- Sexual Conduct: Inappropriate or illegal sexual behavior.
- Child Pornography: The creation, distribution, or possession of explicit images of minors.
- Sex Trafficking: The exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion for sexual purposes.
- Sexual Exploitation: Taking advantage of someone sexually for personal gain.
- Sexual Battery: Unlawful physical sexual contact without consent.
These offenses are categorized into different tiers based on their severity, with Tier I being the least severe and Tier III being the most severe.
Tier I, II, and III Offenses
Sex offenses are classified into three tiers, each representing a different level of severity:
- Tier I Offenses: These are considered the least severe and may include crimes such as indecent exposure or sexual misconduct. Offenders in this category typically face less stringent registration requirements.
- Tier II Offenses: These are more serious and may include crimes such as sexual assault or child molestation. Offenders in this tier are subject to more rigorous registration and monitoring.
- Tier III Offenses: These are the most severe and include crimes such as rape or aggravated sexual abuse. Offenders in this category face the strictest registration requirements and are often subject to lifetime registration.
Understanding the tier system helps in comprehending the varying levels of monitoring and restrictions imposed on convicted sex offenders.
Registration Requirements
Individuals required to register as sex offenders must provide comprehensive personal and identifying information to local law enforcement agencies. This information includes:
- Name
- Address
- Date of birth
- Physical description
- Offense(s) for which the offender was convicted
- Registration status
Once collected, this information is made available to the public through a sex offender registry. The registry serves as a critical resource for communities, enabling residents to stay informed about registered sex offenders in their vicinity and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety.
Why Choose Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. for Your Sex Offender Case?
Facing charges or registration requirements under Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law can feel overwhelming. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C., we understand the gravity of these situations and the long-term effects they can have on your life. With over 65 years of dedicated service, our team has built a strong reputation for ethical and effective defense in complex cases.
Recognized by U.S. News & World Report and Pennsylvania Super Lawyers, our attorneys bring a thorough understanding of Pennsylvania’s sex offense laws and registration requirements. We work closely with you to explore all possible defenses and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way. Contact us at (215) 822-7575 or use our contact form to discuss your case today.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
January 30, 2025
