Collateral Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction in Lisbon, OH

While it is widely known that criminal convictions can result in imprisonment and substantial fines, many individuals fail to anticipate the extensive collateral consequences that come hand in hand with a criminal conviction, especially for a sex offense.

In the state of Ohio, sex crimes carry some of the most severe penalties, often including mandatory prison terms and significant financial penalties. What’s more, the collateral consequences for sex crime convictions in Lisbon can endure long after the convicted offender has completed their sentence and fulfilled their financial obligations.

Given the high stakes involved, individuals who find themselves under investigation or have already been arrested for any form of sex crime in Ohio would be wise to consider engaging the services of a skilled Lisbon sex crimes attorney with experience in this area.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we have successfully defended over 20,000 criminal cases in Ohio. Our profound understanding and expertise could prove to be your strongest defense against imprisonment, substantial fines, and a lifetime of enduring collateral consequences.

Lisbon, OH Defense Lawyer for Sex Crimes

Facing sex charges in Lisbon can have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate legal ramifications. Collateral consequences, as they are referred to, are numerous and wide-spanning, with the Ohio Revised Code listing close to 1,110 such consequences alone. From your ability to work, pursue education, to custody rights, these collateral consequences can profoundly impact your life.

Enter Sean Logue, an accomplished Lisbon prostitution lawyer renowned for his expertise in sex crime cases. With a track record of aiming high and tirelessly advocating for his clients, Sean Logue strives to have charges against you dismissed or reduced, shielding you from the potential debilitating effects of collateral consequences. Recognized by the National Academy of Defense Attorneys as a “Top 10 Under 40 Attorney,” Sean Logue has also received the coveted “Rising Star” recognition from Super Lawyers. Columbus CEO Magazine has designated him as one of Central Ohio’s “Top Lawyers.”

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we boast a team of dedicated Lisbon sex crimes attorneys who enhance our ability to fight for the most favorable outcomes in your case. Drawing from over five years of experience in the Franklin County Public Defender’s Office, Ryan Shafer brings invaluable expertise. Additionally, Mark Wieczorek’s prior service as a Columbiana County, Ohio, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney further bolsters our team’s formidable capabilities.

While many collateral consequences may be mandatory, if legal avenues exist to alleviate some or all of these consequences, Youngstown Criminal Law Group possesses the knowledge and resources to explore them. We are here to provide you with a rigorous defense, without judgment.

Reach out to Youngstown Criminal Law Group today for a complimentary consultation: 330-992-3036.

Overview of Collateral Consequences for Sex Crimes in Lisbon, Ohio

In Lisbon, sex offenses are governed by Chapter 2907 of the Ohio Revised Code. Understanding the legal implications is crucial, as any sex charge can result in collateral consequences, triggering civil and other side effects. Our Lisbon Sex Crime Lawyers are well-versed in Ohio’s laws concerning the collateral consequences of such charges, and we can guide you through the legal defenses that may lead to case dismissal or reduced charges, helping you avoid conviction and its accompanying collateral consequences.

Types of Sex Offenses That Can Trigger Collateral Consequences

Sex offenses that can lead to collateral consequences in Lisbon include:

• Rape
• Sexual battery
• Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor
• Importuning
• Commercial sexual exploitation of a minor
• Soliciting prostitution
• Pandering obscenity
• Child pornography
• Sexual imposition and gross sexual imposition
• Voyeurism
• Public indecency
• Indecent exposure
• Solicitation for prostitution
• Disseminating matter harmful to juveniles
• Displaying matter harmful to juveniles
• Corruption of a minor child
• Pandering obscenity to a minor

Registering as a Sex Offender in Ohio

For certain sex offenses, convicted defendants must register as sex offenders. This collateral consequence can significantly impact your life. The registration is divided into three tiers, each determining the duration and frequency of registration:

• Tier I: Register annually for 15 years, with a possibility of petitioning for removal after 10 years. No requirement to adhere to community notification rules.

• Tier II: Register every 180 days for 25 years, without the need to comply with community notification requirements.
• Tier III: Register every 90 days for life, and potential community notification within a 1,000-feet radius of your residence.

Types of Collateral Consequences

Collateral consequences for crime convictions in Ohio fall into the following categories:

• Civil rights
• Public employment and conducting business with the state
• Care, custody, and control of children and family
• Regulated professions, occupations, trades, industries, and businesses
• Other privileges

Specific Collateral Consequences for Sex Offense Convictions

Sex offenses carry various collateral consequences, each depending on the classification of the charge. While not all consequences apply to every offense, multiple offenses can trigger the same collateral consequence. Here are several examples:

• Adoption and Foster Eligibility: Convicted individuals cannot adopt or foster children.
• Civil Service Employment: Convicted individuals become ineligible for civil service employment.
• Occupational and Physical Therapist License: Occupational or physical therapist licenses may be revoked.
• Public Housing Benefits: Convicted individuals risk losing their public housing benefits.
• Armed Forces Enlistment: Convicted individuals are unable to enlist in the armed forces.
• Firearm and Dangerous Ordnance: The right to have, acquire, carry, or use firearms or dangerous ordnance is lost.
• Deportation: Convicted individuals, in some cases, may face deportation.
• Law Enforcement Officer: Convicted individuals cannot pursue a career in law enforcement.
• State Board of Education of Ohio License: Licenses granted through the State Board of Education of Ohio may be forfeited.
• Elector or Juror: Convicted individuals are disqualified from serving as electors or jurors.
• Voting Rights: While incarcerated, convicted individuals are unable to vote.
• Public Office: Convicted individuals are barred from holding public office.
• Professional Licenses: Convicted individuals may be ineligible for certain professional licenses.

Overcoming Employment Barriers for Individuals with Sex Crime Convictions in Ohio

One of the challenges faced by individuals convicted of sex offenses in Lisbon is the potential impact on their criminal record. In Ohio, records pertaining to sexual offenses cannot be sealed, meaning that employers have access to this information, which can impose restrictions on employment opportunities.

A Certificate of Qualified Employment: Enhancing Your Job Prospects

Fortunately, there is a potential solution that could help you navigate these barriers: obtaining a Certificate of Qualified Employment (CQE) from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction. By applying for a CQE, individuals convicted of violating state laws can seek relief from some of the employment obstacles associated with their conviction.

The process for obtaining a CQE varies depending on whether the conviction was a felony or a misdemeanor:

• Felony convictions: To apply for a CQE, you must wait for one year after being released from jail or prison, including any period of supervision. If you didn’t serve time in jail or prison, you must wait for one year after all imposed sanctions have been lifted.

• Misdemeanor convictions: For individuals with misdemeanor convictions, the waiting period is six months after being released from jail, including any period of supervision. If you didn’t serve time in jail or prison, you must wait for six months after all imposed sanctions have been lifted.

Once you’ve submitted your petition to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction, it will be reviewed and forwarded to the court. Within 60 days, the court will render its decision. If your CQE is approved, you can easily print your certificate from the Ohio DRC CQE web page. Simply show the certificate to prospective employers or license issuers, who will then make their hiring or licensing decisions. However, it’s important to note that if you commit a felony offense after receiving your CQE Certificate, your certificate will be revoked.

Frequently Asked Questions about Collateral Consequences for Sex Crimes in Columbiana County

Q: What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Sexual Offense Conviction?

• One of the most significant collateral consequences for convicted sex offenders is the requirement to register as sex offenders. This not only carries a stigma and social isolation but also presents practical challenges, such as difficulties in finding employment and securing housing.

Q: Is Expungement Possible for Sex Offenses in Ohio?

• In Ohio, expungement is generally not granted for certain sex offenses. Offenses that carry a mandatory prison term, like sexual battery, rape, gross sexual imposition, sexual imposition, or those involving a minor, are not eligible for expungement under state law.

Q: What Does Collateral Consequence Mean?

• Collateral consequence refers to additional civil penalties imposed by Ohio law beyond the direct consequences of a criminal conviction, such as prison, fines, or probation.

Q: How Many Collateral Consequences Exist?

• According to the Ohio Office of Justice Programs, there are 171 collateral consequences linked to a conviction for a “crime of violence.” While some of these consequences are discretionary, many are mandatory and are considered part of the defendant’s punishment.

Q: How Long Does a Felony Stay on Record in Ohio?

• Under Ohio law, you may be eligible for expungement only after a statutory waiting period. This three-year period begins counting down from the date of the defendant’s discharge.

Lisbon, OH Attorney Specializing in Collateral Consequences of Sex Crime Convictions

If you are facing a sex crime investigation or have been arrested for such an offense in Lisbon, it is crucial to secure legal counsel to safeguard your rights. Remember, you have rights that must be protected, and entering into any plea agreement without consulting an experienced sex crimes defense attorney would be unwise.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we provide representation for the accused in Columbiana County, including Lisbon and nearby areas. Contact our award-winning firm today for a complimentary consultation at 330-992-3036. We are here to help you through this challenging situation.