Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

Accused of Failing to Register? We Can Help

Under Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law and the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), individuals convicted of certain sex offenses are required to register as sex offenders. Failure to register, update information, or comply with the requirements is a separate felony criminal offense—and prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases.

At Sheridan Lawyers, we understand how complex and burdensome these registration laws can be, and we defend clients across Chester County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County who are accused of failing to register.

What Constitutes Failure to Register?

You may be charged with failure to register if you allegedly:

• Did not initially register after release from jail, prison, or probation

• Failed to update your registration when moving to a new address

• Failed to report changes in employment or enrollment at a school

• Missed required in-person verification appointments

• Provided false or misleading information on registration documents

These charges often stem from misunderstandings, mistakes, or confusion about complicated registration requirements—not intentional criminal conduct.

Penalties for Failure to Register in Pennsylvania

Penalties depend on the underlying sex offense and the length of the required registration period. Consequences can include:

• Felony charges punishable by years in state prison

• Additional registration requirements, often extending the registration period

• Probation and parole violations if failure occurs while under supervision

• Collateral consequences, such as difficulty finding housing or employment

Even if the underlying offense was resolved years ago, a failure to register charge can drag you back into the criminal system with devastating consequences.

Defense Strategies Against Failure to Register Charges

At Sheridan Lawyers, we take a strategic and aggressive approach, exploring defenses such as:

• Lack of notice or misunderstanding of registration requirements

• Clerical errors by probation officers, parole officers, or the State Police

• Lack of intent—proving that failure was not willful

• Constitutional challenges to aspects of SORNA or Megan’s Law requirements

• Mitigating circumstances, such as homelessness or barriers beyond your control

Our goal is to protect your rights and prevent a simple mistake or oversight from turning into years behind bars.

Why Choose Sheridan Lawyers?

• Aggressive defense against serious felony charges

• Knowledge of Pennsylvania sex offender laws and SORNA requirements

• Compassionate client support—we know these cases carry stigma and stress

• Proven results in criminal defense throughout Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties