Question:
What’s the penalty for failing to register as a sex offender in Texas?
Answer:
In Texas, failing to register as a sex offender, in all cases, will be a felony.
The degree of felony will depend on what the underlying offense was that made you have to register. For instance, if you’re registering because you’ve been charged and convicted for a second indecent exposure, that’s the lowest type of offense for which you have to register. For that, it’s a state jail felony. If you are registering because of possession of child pornography, or you’re registering because of some sort of sexual assault, in those cases it’s a much higher degree offense.
In all cases, it’s a felony and you need to take that seriously. I’ve been able to resolve those cases with a dismissal, just because the person made a mistake like they reported late, or they didn’t understand the reporting requirements. Even though you may have technically committed the offense, in some cases the prosecutor will give someone some leeway if, in fact, there’s an explanation for not reporting.
Were you or a loved one charged with a sex crime and are wondering what happens if you fail to register as a sex offender? Contact a San Antonio sex crime lawyer at Rush & Gransee today for a consultation on your case and all of your potential defenses. Let our experience work for you.
Attorney Kurt W. Gransee has achieved the highest rating of superb on Avvo.