In the state of Wisconsin, convicts of select sex offenses may be required to register as a sex offender. This public registry allows citizens the ability to identify people living near them who have histories of sexually abusive behavior. This can be devastating for offenders who are looking to become productive members of society, as being a registered sex offender can severely limit a person’s ability to find a place to live and a decent job.
If you have been accused of a sex crime and are facing the possibility of sex offender registration, it is imperative that you protect your rights by retaining the services of a powerful Milwaukee sex crime lawyer from the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella as soon as possible.
Take the first step towards protecting your future by contacting our firm to request a complimentary case evaluation today!
Effects of Sex Offender Registration
Registration as a sex offender can have a devastating effect on a person’s life. Even if a person has served their sentence and are legitimately looking to start fresh, being labeled as a sexual predator can forever tarnish their name and force a person to live their life under intense scrutiny. This can lead to the destruction of personal relationships, hardship when searching for housing, and extreme prejudice when searching for employment.
Registration involves disclosing the following information:
- Name and any aliases
- Personal description
- Details of the person’s offense
- Address
- Vehicle description
- Name and address of employer
If a person is forced to register, they may not change their name and must inform the Wisconsin Department of Corrections within 10 days of any changes to the above information.
How Long Do I Have to Register as a Wisconsin Sex Offender?
Depending on the offense, registration can last anywhere from 15 years to life after being discharged from probation, supervision, or parole. Some sex crime convictions bring automatic registration, while others are left to the discretion of the courts.
Unlike other types of criminal offenses, sex crimes such as sexual assault, rape, and any offenses involving a minor child in Wisconsin often require individuals to register with the state’s sex offender registry. The information in the registry is made available to law enforcement agencies, victims, and the general public through the Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry website.
Lifetime Registration as a Sex Offender
However, for most serious offenses, individuals must register for the remainder of their lives. The following convictions require lifetime registration as a sex offender in Wisconsin:
- First- or second-degree sexual assault where the victim is either an adult or a child
- Two or more convictions of the same sex crime
- Repeated offenses involving children
- Violent acts under Chapter 980
- Acts with a child in substitute care
Not only does a sex crime result in extensive prison sentences and other serious penalties, but having to register as a sex offender can permanently ruin your personal and professional reputation. According to a state study conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice, many registered sex offenders in Wisconsin reported losing jobs and employment opportunities, getting constantly denied when looking for a place to live, and experiencing damage in their personal relationships.
Get the Representation You Deserve
With the stakes this high, it is imperative that you place your future in the hands of a highly knowledgeable attorney who can maximize your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Public defenders, while affordable, typically have a massive case load and are unlikely to give your case the level of attention you need. At the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella, our Milwaukee criminal defense lawyers understand the gravity of your situation and we are prepared to do everything within our power to defend your rights in a court of law. Your future is far too important – make sure it is in excellent hands!
Tell us about your situation by calling us today at (414) 347-9334.
