If you have been convicted of a
sex crime, you may have been ordered to register the Virginia state sex offender
registry. Registration can have social, economic, and other consequences
for offenders, so many people want to know how they can get relief from
registration. Below, we cover the legal process of having your name removed
from the registry database.
Removal of Name and Information From the Registry
The
Code of Virginia § 9.1-910 provides a way for sex offenders to have their name and identifying information
removed from the registry. There are several restrictions and eligibility
requirements that must be taken into account when petitioning for removal.
Individuals Restricted from Removal:
-
Those convicted of a
sexually violent offense.
- Those convicted of two or more offenses requiring registration.
- Those convicted of murder.
Eligibility Requirements for Removal:
- Have been registered for a minimum of 15 years (25 years for specific offenses).
- Have completed any court-ordered counseling, treatment, and restitution.
A petition must be filed with the circuit court in which you were convicted
or in the circuit court of the jurisdiction you live in to have your name
and identifying information removed. The court that was petitioned will
hold a hearing to evaluate the petition and any evidence presented by
the petitioner and any interested parties. If the court determines that
there is enough evidence that the petitioner is no longer a risk to public
safety, the petition will be granted, and the identifying information
will be removed from the registry. If the petition is denied, the petitioner
must wait 24 months before submitting a new petition.
Get Help with Your Sex Offender Registry Removal Petition
Removal from the state sex offender registry can free a person of the stigma
of registration, and lift the restrictions they have been forced to face.
At The Law Offices of Daniel J Miller, we are committed to protecting
the rights of those convicted of sex crimes. Helping our clients find
relief from registration is one way we strive to restore our clients’
rights. Backed by more than 15 years of experience our Virginia Beach
sex crimes lawyer can help you reclaim your life.
Contact our firm to schedule a
free case evaluation. Call (757) 517-2942 today.