Clemson Sex Offender Registry

A South Carolina sex crimes conviction can significantly impact a person’s life even after serving their sentence. In addition to creating a criminal record, certain individuals may have their personal information published on the State’s sex offender registry, which may result in their exclusion from certain housing, employment, and educational opportunities.

To understand how being on the registry may affect your future, consult with a knowledgeable Clemson sex offender registry attorney. An experienced lawyer could help you understand your registration requirements and work with you to move forward.

What is a Sex Offender Registry?

To keep the public informed and safe, many states, including South Carolina, have created mandatory monitoring of individuals who committed certain sex-related crimes. Once a person completes their sentence, they must comply with the registration requirements established in South Carolina Code Annotated §§ 23-3-430 through 23-480. This tracking system includes a person’s name, current address, place of work, school attended, picture, and other identifying information.

Convictions that Mandate Registering as a Sex Offender

There are a number of crimes in Clemson that could result in placement on the sex offender registry. Some of the offenses outlined in S.C. Code Ann. § 23-3-430(C) include:

• Peeping or voyeurism
• Criminal sexual conduct in the first through third degrees
• Sexual battery of a spouse
• Sexual intercourse with a patient
• Assault with the intent to commit an unlawful sex act
• Sexual exploitation of a minor

Anyone who is unsure of their registration requirements should consult with an attorney as soon as they are able to ensure that they comply with all applicable laws.

Who is Subject to Sex Offender Registration?

The registry can apply to anyone who resides in South Carolina. The law broadly defines the term resident of South Carolina. Under S.C. Code Ann. § 23-3-430(B), anyone – juvenile or adult – who spends 30 or more days in the State over any twelve months is subject to registration. Additionally, if a person is convicted of similar crimes in another jurisdiction and then becomes a Clemson resident, they too must register as a sex offender within three days. Failure to adhere to the registration requirements may result in separate criminal charges.

The Timeframe for Being on the Sex Offender Registry

Until recently, sex offender registration was a lifelong requirement. There were few instances in which a person could have their information removed – they would need to have their conviction overturned or vacated. However, a recent S.C. Supreme Court decision found the lifetime requirement without opportunity for judicial review unconstitutional.

The Court directed lawmakers to implement new legislation addressing the lack of review, providing registrants with a mechanism to request and justify their removal from the list. This decision can be life-changing for registrants, as it gives them a potential opportunity to remove this cloud from their reputation and move on with their life. By consulting with a Clemson attorney familiar with the sex offender registry requirements and this monumental court decision, individuals can stay up to date and possibly take advantage of the changes happening in this area.

Discuss Sex Offender Registration Requirements with a Clemson Lawyer

If you could not avoid a conviction for one of the covered crimes and are now on the Clemson sex offender registry, you are not without options. The law governing the registry is in a state of flux. The assistance of a seasoned criminal law attorney may be crucial to reviewing your case, applying the current state of the law to your situation, and helping you regain control of your personal information and your future. Schedule a free consultation with a dedicated member of our legal team today to get started.