Illinois takes criminal offenses seriously, and the state charges and prosecutes sexual offenses with stiff penalties. Just being accused of any type of sex crime can significantly impact a person’s personal reputation as well as his or her career, including the suspension or termination of professional licenses. Depending on the criminal act, a conviction can result in a lengthy prison sentence, as well as being required to register as a sex offender for the rest of the individual’s life. That is why it is imperative that you seek professional legal counsel if you or someone you know is facing such charges. A skilled criminal defense attorney can advocate for you by building a strong defense on your behalf.
Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act
Under Illinois law, sex offender registration lasts for a period of 10 years, but it can also last much longer than that based on the nature of the crime or the age of the victim. According to the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act, anyone who has been charged with a sex crime must register as a sex offender with the state of Illinois if any of the below factors apply to him or her:
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Convicted of the sex crime for which he or she was charged
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Found not guilty of the sex crime by reason of insanity
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The subject of a finding that does not result in an acquittal
Sexual Crimes that Require Registration as a Sex Offender
A conviction of specific crimes listed in the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act will require sex offender registration. Some of the most common include:
- Child pornography
- Criminal sexual assault
- Criminal sexual abuse
Aggravated charges of criminal sexual assault and criminal sexual abuse would also require registration on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry list.
Impact on a Professional License
In Illinois, registered sex offenders’ names become public knowledge, and they must follow certain rules, restrictions, and limitations. This includes not living or coming within 500 feet of a public park, school, or daycare center. The stipulations of registration can also restrict social media use.
There are two Federal Acts that regulate the standards for disciplining individuals with professional licenses: the Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions Act and the Regulation of Health Professionals—Uniform Disciplinary Act. If you are facing possible suspension or revocation due to violating certain standards of conduct or sexual misconduct, an experienced attorney can help you defend the professional license for which you worked so hard to obtain.
Contact a DuPage County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Registration on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry can have long-lasting consequences, such as losing your license to practice medicine or other professions. At Anderson Attorneys & Advisors, we are well prepared to help you build a strong defense so you can maintain your professional license. Our skilled Wheaton sex crimes defense attorneys understand how serious even a false accusation of a sex crime can deter your career. We will help you navigate the intricacies of the regulations you must follow while on the Sex Offender registry to avoid violating the terms and facing additional consequences. To schedule a free consultation, call our office today at 630-877-5800.
Sources:
https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=426
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=095-0229
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073001520K120
https://www.isp.state.il.us/sor/