What to Do When Facing Charges Requiring SORNA or Megan's Law Registration in Pennsylvania

Being charged with a crime that requires registration under Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law or the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) is a serious matter that demands immediate action. Convictions for these offenses come with life-altering consequences, including mandatory sex offender registration, potential incarceration, and permanent damage to your reputation.

At Frank Walker Law, we understand the gravity of these charges and provide skilled, aggressive representation to help you navigate the legal process. Attorney Frank Walker is a trusted advocate with extensive experience defending clients in Pennsylvania’s Court of Common Pleas. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.

What Is Megan’s Law and SORNA in Pennsylvania?

Megan’s Law and SORNA establish requirements for individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses to register as sex offenders. In Pennsylvania, the law divides offenders into tiers based on the nature of the offense:

Tier I Offenses

• Requires registration for 15 years.
• Includes charges such as indecent assault and corruption of minors.

Tier II Offenses

• Requires registration for 25 years.
• Includes charges such as sexual assault, trafficking in minors, or distribution of child pornography.

Tier III Offenses

• Requires lifetime registration.
• Includes charges such as rape, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, or aggravated indecent assault.

In addition to registering, offenders must comply with restrictions on housing, employment, and travel. Non-compliance with these requirements can result in further criminal charges.

Consequences of a Conviction Requiring SORNA or Megan’s Law Registration

A conviction for a qualifying offense has far-reaching consequences, including:

1. Mandatory Registration as a Sex Offender

Registration under Megan’s Law or SORNA means your personal information, including your name, address, and offense, will be publicly accessible on a database.

2. Severe Restrictions on Your Life

Sex offender registration imposes strict limitations on where you can live, work, or travel. Violations of these restrictions can result in additional charges.

3. Incarceration

Many offenses requiring registration also carry significant prison sentences. For some Tier III offenses, sentences can extend to decades.

4. Loss of Privacy and Reputation

Public disclosure of your registration status can lead to social stigma, harassment, and isolation from your community, family, and friends.

5. Difficulty Finding Employment or Housing

Being on the sex offender registry often disqualifies individuals from many job opportunities and limits access to housing, creating additional barriers to rebuilding your life.

What to Do When Facing Charges Requiring Registration

If you are charged with a crime that requires SORNA or Megan’s Law registration, it is critical to take immediate action to protect your rights and mount a strong defense.

1. Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

Sex offenses are some of the most complex and sensitive charges to defend. You need a skilled attorney who understands the nuances of Pennsylvania law and has experience handling Megan’s Law and SORNA cases.

2. Do Not Speak to Law Enforcement Without Legal Counsel

Law enforcement may attempt to gather statements or evidence from you. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Exercise your right to remain silent and consult with an attorney before making any statements.

3. Preserve Any Evidence Supporting Your Defense

Gather and preserve any evidence, such as text messages, emails, or witness information, that could help demonstrate your innocence or disprove the allegations.

4. Avoid Contact with the Accuser

Contacting the accuser can result in additional charges, such as witness intimidation. Let your attorney handle all communications related to the case.

5. Prepare for a Vigorous Defense

Your attorney will work with you to build a defense strategy tailored to the unique facts of your case, whether that involves challenging the evidence, disputing the charges, or negotiating for reduced penalties.

How Frank Walker Law Fights SORNA and Megan’s Law Cases

At Frank Walker Law, we develop comprehensive defense strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case and minimize the impact of these charges on your life. Our approach includes:

1. Thorough Case Investigation

We conduct an in-depth review of the allegations and evidence against you, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and procedural errors that may work in your favor.

2. Challenging the Evidence

We scrutinize all evidence, including forensic reports, witness statements, and digital records, to determine its reliability and admissibility in court.

3. Negotiating with Prosecutors

In some cases, we may negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, potentially avoiding registration requirements altogether.

4. Expert Witness Testimony

We work with forensic and psychological experts who can provide testimony to challenge the prosecution’s evidence or support your defense.

5. Aggressive Trial Advocacy

If your case goes to trial, Attorney Frank Walker will present a compelling defense to the jury, cross-examine witnesses, and argue passionately on your behalf.

Why Choose Frank Walker Law?

Facing charges that require Megan’s Law or SORNA registration is a daunting experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Frank Walker Law, we are committed to providing the aggressive representation and personalized support you need during this difficult time.

Why Clients Trust Frank Walker Law:

• Extensive Experience: Decades of experience defending clients in Pennsylvania’s Court of Common Pleas.
• Proven Results: A track record of successful outcomes in complex and sensitive cases.
• Personalized Defense Strategies: Tailored defense plans designed to address the specific facts of your case.
• Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional toll of these charges and are here to guide you every step of the way.
• Aggressive Advocacy: Attorney Frank Walker is a fierce advocate who will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom.

Protect Your Rights, Reputation, and Future

If you are facing charges that require registration under Megan’s Law or SORNA, the stakes could not be higher. A conviction can alter the course of your life forever, but with the right legal defense, you can fight the charges and protect your future.

Contact Frank Walker Law today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you understand your legal options and develop a strategy to defend against these serious accusations.

When your freedom and reputation are on the line, trust Frank Walker Law to provide the skilled and aggressive defense you deserve.