Skip to Main Content

What You Need to Know About the Texas Sex Offender Registry

Anyone who is facing charges for sex offenses under Texas state or federal law may be required to register as a sex offender with the Texas Sex Offender Registration Program. Even seemingly minor offenses that result in a conviction can require sex offender registration, and the consequences can be dramatic and significant. If you have been arrested for any type of sex crime or sex offense in Houston, you need to understand that the consequences of a conviction may include sex offender registration and all that this type of registration entails. Our Houston sex crimes defense lawyers can tell you more about the Texas Sex Offender Registration Program, and we can talk with you today about potential defense strategies for your case.

Convictions for Many Types of Sex Offenses Require Sex Offender Registration

If you are convicted of a sex offense or sex crime, there is a high likelihood that you will need to register with the Texas Sex Offender Registration Program. Under Texas law, anyone who has a “reportable conviction or adjudication” must register. Offenses that fall under the category of a “reportable conviction or adjudication” include but are not limited to the following offenses:

  • Indecency with a child;
  • Sexual assault;
  • Aggravated sexual assault;
  • Prohibited sexual conduct;
  • Prostitution;
  • Aggravated promotion of prostitution;
  • Compelling prostitution; and
  • Possession or promotion of child pornography.

You Will Need to Provide a Significant Amount of Information to Law Enforcement

To register, you will need to provide extensive information to local law enforcement, such as your full name, date of birth, detailed identifying physical information, a recent photograph, information about your residence and work plans, information about your vehicle registration, and many other personal details.

Sex Offender Registration Requirements Do Not Stop Across State Lines

If you leave Texas, or if you move to Texas with a sex offense conviction from another state, you will still need to register.

Most People Convicted of Sex Offenses Will Need to Register for 10 Years or for Life

Required registration on the sex offender registry usually lasts for a very long time. Under Texas law, most people convicted of sex crimes that require registration will be required to register for 10 years or for life.

Public Will Be Informed of Your Sex Offender Status and Registration

The public and community members will be notified and informed about sex offenders in the area. The Texas Department of Public Safety, local law enforcement, and even campus security at Texas colleges and universities can release information to the public about a person required to register as a sex offender. The information is also accessible by the public on the Texas Department of Public Safety Sex Offender Database. Schools and newspapers can also make this information public. Depending upon the specific offense and the classification of the sex offender, community members may receive written notice on postcards at their addresses if they live within a particular proximity to the person.

Contact Our Houston Sex Offense Defense Lawyers

If you need assistance defending against sex crimes charges in Texas, an experienced Houston sex crimes defense attorney can speak with you today. Contact The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates to learn more about how we can assist you.