Being required to register as a sex offender in Weld County, Colorado can feel overwhelming, confusing, and isolating. If you’re facing this requirement, or want to understand how it might affect you or someone you love, you’re not alone. At O’Malley Law Office, we help individuals navigate Colorado’s sex offender registration laws and fight for the most favorable outcomes possible.
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about sex offender registration in Colorado.
1. Who Has to Register as a Sex Offender in Colorado? A Greeley Criminal Defense Attorney Explains
Under Colorado law (C.R.S. § 16-22-101 et seq.), individuals convicted of certain sex offenses are required to register as sex offenders. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Sexual Assault
- Sexual Assault on a Child
- Unlawful Sexual Contact
- Internet Luring or Exploitation of a Child
- Possession of Child Pornography (Sexual Exploitation of a Child)
Important: You may also be required to register if you’re convicted in another state or federal court, and you live, work, or attend school in Colorado.
2. When and Where Do I Register in Greeley?
Generally, a person convicted of a sex offense must register either yearly or quarterly (every 3 months).
If you’re required to register, you typically must do so within 5 business days of:
- Being released from custody
- Moving to a new address
- Changing jobs or schools
You must register in person at the local law enforcement agency in the jurisdiction where you live. This is usually the police department (if you live in a city) or the sheriff’s office (if you live in an unincorporated area).
3. What Information Do I Have to Provide?
When registering, you’ll need to provide:
- Full name and aliases
- Address(es)
- Employment and school information
- Vehicle information
- Internet identifiers (usernames, email addresses)
- A current photograph and fingerprints
Failure to provide accurate or complete information can lead to new criminal charges.
4. How Often Do I Have to Re-Register?
How often you must re-register depends on the level of offense and whether you are considered a sexually violent predator (SVP):
- Annually: Most individuals register once per year.
- Quarterly: Those classified as SVPs must register every 90 days.
- Changes: You must report certain changes (like address, employment, school) within 5 business days.
5. Is Sex Offender Registration Public in Colorado?
Some registered offenders are listed on a public online database, maintained by local law enforcement. However, not everyone is listed online. The public list typically includes:
- Adults convicted of higher-level offenses
- Sexually violent predators
- Repeat offenders
Juveniles and individuals convicted of less serious offenses may not appear online but still must register with law enforcement.
6. Can I Get Off the Sex Offender Registry?
In some cases, yes. Colorado law allows individuals to petition the court for removal from the registry after a certain period of time, depending on the offense:
- 5 years after completion of sentence for certain misdemeanors
- 10 years for some misdemeanors and felony convictions
- 20 years for more serious offenses
- Lifetime registration may apply in certain cases, unless you receive relief from the court
Eligibility depends on your criminal history, compliance with registration, and other factors. A knowledgeable attorney can help you file a Petition to Discontinue Sex Offender Registration and represent you at the hearing.
7. What Happens If I Fail to Register?
Failing to Register — or failing to update your registration as required — is a separate criminal offense in Greeley, Colorado. The penalties vary but may include:
- Class 6 felony for a first offense (up to 18 months in prison)
- Class 5 felony for subsequent violations
- Possible return to prison or jail
- Additional consequences to probation or parole
Even unintentional mistakes, like missing a deadline, can lead to serious consequences. That’s why legal guidance is critical.
8. Can I Travel or Move Out of State If I’m on the Registry?
Yes, but with conditions. If you’re moving out of state, you must notify your current registration agency before the move, and you may need to register in your new state. If you’re traveling for more than five days, you may also need to update your status with law enforcement or do a temporary registration in the state you are traveling to.
Every state has different laws, so be sure to consult an attorney before moving.
9. Can a Lawyer Help Me with Sex Offender Registration Issues?
Absolutely. Whether you’re:
- Trying to avoid registration after a new charge,
- Facing revocation of probation due to a registration mistake,
- Looking to petition for removal from the registry,
- Or facing charges for failing to register —
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand your options, defend your rights, and fight for your future.
Get Legal Help from a Trusted Colorado Defense Attorney
Being on the sex offender registry can impact every aspect of your life, from where you live and work to your relationships and reputation. But you do not have to face this alone.
At O’Malley Law Office, we provide nonjudgmental, aggressive defense for individuals facing sex offense charges or struggling with registration requirements. We’re here to protect your rights and help you take back control of your life.
If you or someone you love is facing a sex offender registration issue, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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