Can People on the Texas Sex Offenders List Get Their Names Removed?

 Posted on July 26, 2022 in Criminal Defense

While most of us think of the term “sex offender” and think of serious sex offenses like rape, child sexual assault, or prostitution, the truth is that even crimes like indecent exposure, which are typically only a Class B misdemeanor, can result in the requirement to register as a sex offender as well. Once someone’s name is caught up in the Texas sex offender list, it is very hard to get it removed and the consequences associated with being a sex offender are devastating. 

Fortunately, it may be possible for some people to deregister as a sex offender. Different sex crimes have different lengths of sex offender registration, but if you meet certain requirements, you may be able to get your name taken off the list. Talk to a Texas criminal defense attorney to learn more about your options. 

How Can I Get My Name Taken Off the Texas Sex Offenders List? 

Only people convicted of certain offenses may be removed from the sex offender list. The offense must have been a first-time, non-aggravated defense, meaning that those convicted of sex crimes against a child under 14, using drugs to incapacitate a victim, causing bodily harm to the victim, etc. may not apply for deregistration. There is a list that shows whether a particular crime is eligible for deregistration. An applicant must also have completed treatment and have spent least ten years on the sex offender list.

If a crime is eligible for deregistration, the next step is submitting an application to the Texas Council on Sex offender Treatment. This involves filling out a questionnaire and submitting state and federal criminal background checks. 

If the Council on Sex Offender Treatment approves the deregistration, then applicant must schedule an evaluation with a deregistration specialist. There are about two dozen such specialists and your attorney can help you select one. The specialist will conduct an extensive interview and prepare a report for a judge that assesses your risk of reoffending. 

Finally, an applicant must attend a court hearing in the same court in which the original conviction took place. The court will review the deregistration specialist’s recommendation, hear your case, and make a decision. Having an attorney at the court date can be present because an attorney can help make a strong case that an applicant has been rehabilitated and do not present a threat. 

Schedule a Meeting with a Plano, TX Sexual Offender Deregistration Attorney 

The social and professional stigma of being on the Texas sex offenders list can have devastating consequences. If you are interested in learning more about the potential to deregister, schedule a free consultation with a Collin County sex offender deregistration attorney with The Crowder Law Firm, P.C.. Do not pay any expensive deregistration companies until you are sure you understand whether they can help. Call us today at 214-544-0061 to schedule your case review and learn more about your options. 

Sources: 

https://www.deregistertexas.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/TDPS-Deregistration-Eligibility-Chart.pdf

https://www.hhs.texas.gov/business/licensing-credentialing-regulation/professional-licensing-certification-compliance/council-sex-offender-treatment/deregistration