The Implications of Registering as a Sexual Offender

  Although most defendants required to register as sexual offenders have been involved with a minor, some jurisdictions are trying to call defendants in prostitution cases sexual offenders. This is an unfortunate development because having to register as a sexual offender can have far reaching effects. Not to mention that sexual offenders are treated to mug shots with their names and addresses there for everyone to see on the internet.
 
 Maybe it was not such a good idea to teach mom how to work the Internet?

 In the state of California, once a person is convicted of a sex offense, he or she is required to register as a sex offender, even if they enter a “Nolo contendere” (a no contest)  plea. Once their name appears on that list, they can be deprived of a license that enabled them to earn a living.

  Example---A medical doctor employed as a surgeon in a local hospital north of Los Angeles evidently became infatuated or fell in love with a minor and was convicted of mailing sexual material to the minor with the intent of seduction, even though the doctor never had any sexual contact with the minor. Upon conviction he was required to register as a sex offender. As a result, his medical license to practice in the State of California was immediately revoked. This is an automatic revocation triggered by his being listed as a sexual offender.
 
  Although there is a semblance of uniformity in state laws, they do vary in their specifics. In some states sending pornography (what ever that it) on a computer or having sex with a prostitute under the age of 18 can qualify you as well for the list. Likewise, once on the list there are additional severe restrictions regarding housing, parking, prohibitions from entering a park or play ground etc.

  Next time that cutie in a tight blouse and short-short skirt winks at you, you’d better check her I.D. before you move on to a full examination of the matter. Failure to do so may cost you a lot more than you expect.

Leagle Beagle,

Are there any jurisdictions where a hobbyist convicted/charged with solicitation would be required to register as a sex offender if the provider involved was an adult in all jurisdictions (over 18)?

Thanks!

-- Modified on 4/30/2010 12:37:41 AM

Note--most states will not require you to register or classify you as a sex offender as a result of solicitation of a prostitute over the age of 18.  In Kansas and several other states, there is discussion about expanding the sex offender classification for solicitation of an adult prostitute. Stay tuned for further developments. Note that a fine line can exist between solicitation and pandering (see note posted separately) and if the solicitation can be moved into pandering charge, you may well ne eligible for the sex offender status.