HOW TO GET OFF THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY EARLY IN MASSACHUSETTS

It is possible to completely get off the Sex Offender Registry in Massachusetts after you’ve been on it for a number of years. Depending on the offense, some people are designated to be on the registry for life while others must be on it for 20 years. However, only if you’re scheduled to be on the registry for 20 years, can you apply for early termination at halftime after 10 years. That is 10 years after conviction, adjudication, release from custody, or supervision such as probation – whichever occurs last.

To qualify, you must not have committed another sex offense within those years since your conviction. The burden of proof is on the Sex Offender Registry Board to prove by clear and convincing proof the appropriateness of your remaining on the Registry. The sex offender does, however, retain an initial burden of production to introduce evidence of changed circumstances showing that he or she “does not pose a risk to reoffend or a danger to the public.” The offender needs to come up with “new information” of a decreased risk of reoffense or degree of dangerousness since the last time you were before the board for determination of your classification level or the last time you requested early termination if you ever did so.

In order to apply for an early termination, you must make the request in writing. Then you have a choice – either request an actual hearing before the board or simply submit in writing the reasons why it would be appropriate to terminate your obligation and include whatever documentation you have to offer.

Click here to learn more about preparing for the Sex Offender Registry Board

Are you interested in terminating your obligation to register with the Sex Offender Registry? Contact expert criminal defense lawyer Peter Elikann today for a free legal consult.