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Sex Offender Registration

Harrisburg Sex Crimes Lawyers Fighting for You

A conviction for a sex offense can haunt you for the rest of your life. In addition to prison time, you may have to register as a sex offender, making your photo, offense information, area of residence, and other personal information available to the public (and readily searchable online). This harsh requirement will make it difficult to get a job, find housing, and get your normal life back.

To learn how our experienced sex crimes attorneys in Harrisburg can help you, call (717) 268-4287 and set up a free initial consultation. We serve clients throughout Dauphin County.

State & Federal Requirements

There are two levels of laws governing sex offender registration:

  • At the state level, Pennsylvania imposes strict registration requirements for people convicted of certain sex crimes. You may be required to report to the state police your address, where you work, if you move, and if you attend school. You may have to report for the rest of your life.
  • Under federal law, the Adam Walsh Act or SORNA (Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act) creates a three-tiered system of mandatory registration based on the nature of the underlying offense. Failure to comply is a felony.

Most types of sex offenses result in mandatory registration. Even for misdemeanor sexual offenses such as indecent exposure, you face a reporting requirement for 10 years. After a conviction for a serious charge such as rape, you will have a hearing before the Sexual Offenders Assessment Board (SOAB) to determine whether you must register as a sexually violent predator.

Get Help Navigating This Complex Area

As you can see, the requirements for sex offender registration can be confusing. At Shaffer & Engle, our attorneys can help you navigate this and other legal aspects of sex crimes. We are extremely well-versed in this complex area of law. Our Harrisburg sex crimes lawyers have successfully handled many high-profile cases, and our team includes a former prosecutor.

What Our
clients Have to Say

  • He treated me with respect and always made me feel like my case was his only priority.

    “Because I live out of state, I needed representation that I could trust to best represent me and my interests. Jeff Engle provided regular, thorough counsel throughout the legal process. He treated me with respect and always made me feel like my case was his only priority.”

    KH

  • He follows up with his clients quickly so you are at ease knowing what the status of your situation is.

    “I can’t begin to say how great Mr. Engle was on SUPER short notice. I’m from out of state and I have to say he was quick to respond and had answers to my questions. It was an INCREDIBLE relief to have him in my corner, I can’t tell you how invaluable that is. He follows up with his clients quickly so you are at ease knowing what the status of your situation is. You are in fantastic and capable hands with Mr. Engle.”

    Jessie C.

  • They took our case and provided great counsel, direction, and splendid representation throughout the legal process.

    “I needed a criminal defense lawyer for a family member. So, having been represented by Shaffer & Engle previously, I contacted them. They took our case and provided great counsel, direction, and splendid representation throughout the legal process. The case was dismissed which was the best verdict that could be achieved. We are so thankful and blessed to have had such a wonderful attorney!”

    Ernie M.

  • He treats you with respect, has a great personality, keeps you informed, makes you feel comfortable, and takes time to answer any questions.

    “Hired the Law Office to handle the new Adam Walsh Act law going into effect December 20, 2012. State of PA and State Police was requiring that I register under the new law. Not only required to register but also changing my Tier level from Tier 1 to Tier Pending. Originally was required to register as a Tier 1 for 10 years but under the new law they were requiring to register for life. Attorney Engle took the case and fought from the day he was hired until the case was resolved. This is the only Law Firm I have dealt with that work diligently and kept us well informed throughout the case. Our case Won on two levels: 1. I am no longer required to register under the new Adam Walsh Act. 2. Successfully removed my name from the Sex Offender Registry. I am no longer listed on State or Federal Megan Law web site. I have worked with several Law firms over the past 10 years and Attorney Engle is the best Attorney. He treats you with respect, has a great personality, keeps you informed, makes you feel comfortable, and takes time to answer any questions. He fought for my rights where not too many attorneys out there will. AND he WON our case against the State Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Police. I will recommend this Law Firm to anyone that need legal representation no matter what the case might be. Big or small this is the law firm you want to hire. I cannot nor can anyone predict the same outcome but they will fight for your best interest.”

    Former client

  • Very thankful to all of them

    “Working through legal issues can be stressful to say the least. The Firm of Shaffer & Engle was experienced, communicative, thorough and kind. Very thankful to all of them and glad to have had the pleasure to work with such a great team.”

    T.P.