How Long Do Sex Offenders Have to Register in Colorado?

Colorado sex offender registration requirements can last decades – or even a lifetime – depending on your offense. The rules are strict, the consequences for non-compliance are severe, and failing to understand your exact obligations can land you back in criminal court.

Before you try to handle Colorado’s sex offender registry system alone, here’s what you need to know about your registration requirements, timelines, and options for getting off the registry.

Initial Sex Offender Registration Requirements

In Colorado, a person convicted of a sex offense must register with their local law enforcement agency within 5 business days of:

• Being released from prison
• Being placed on parole
• Moving to Colorado from another state
• Establishing additional residences
• Changing addresses

But how long does this registration requirement continue? The answer depends on several factors.

Colorado Sex Offender Registration Periods by Offense Level

Lifetime Registration Requirements

Under Colorado law, lifetime registration is required for:

• Class 1, 2, or 3 felony sexual assault
• Sexual assault on a child
• Sexual assault on a child by someone in a position of trust
• Sexual assault on a client by a psychotherapist
• Incest or aggravated incest
• Sexual exploitation of children
• Any second or subsequent sex offense
• Being designated a Sexually Violent Predator (SVP)

20-Year Registration Requirements

Twenty-year registration is required for:

• Class 4, 5, or 6 felony unlawful sexual contact
• Sexual assault without consent
• Felony sexual exploitation
• Felony indecent exposure
• Felony sexual conduct in a penal institution

10-Year Registration Requirements

Ten-year registration applies to:

• Misdemeanor unlawful sexual contact
• Misdemeanor sexual assault
• Misdemeanor indecent exposure
• Criminal attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit these offenses

What Sex Offenders Must Do to Stay Registered in Colorado

During the registration period, offenders must:

• Register annually within 5 days of their birthday
• Register quarterly if classified as sexually violent predator
• Update registration within 5 days of any address change
• Register all email addresses and online identities
• Pay registration fees
• Provide fingerprints and photographs
• Register in every jurisdiction where they live, work, or attend school

Failure to comply with these requirements is a separate criminal offense that can result in additional charges and penalties.

How to Get Off Colorado’s Sex Offender Registry

Petition for Removal

After the required registration period, you may be eligible to petition the court for removal from the registry. This process involves:

1. Filing a petition in the court where the conviction occurred
2. Providing notice to law enforcement and the district attorney
3. Attending a hearing to present your case
4. Demonstrating compliance with all registration requirements
5. Showing rehabilitation and low risk to reoffend

The court will consider factors such as:

• The seriousness of the original offense
• Subsequent criminal history
• Input from victims
• Treatment completion
• Stability in the community
• Risk assessment results

Juvenile Offenders

Special provisions exist for juvenile offenders. They may petition for removal:

• After successful completion of juvenile sentence
• If they can demonstrate rehabilitation
• After maintaining a clean record
• Upon showing they’re unlikely to reoffend

Consequences of Sex Offender Registration

Sex offender registration impacts many aspects of life:

Housing Restrictions

• Cannot live within certain distances of schools
• May face difficulty renting or buying homes
• Must notify landlords of registration status
• Subject to residency restrictions

Employment Limitations

• Cannot work in certain professions
• Must disclose registration to employers
• May face difficulty finding employment
• Limited career opportunities

Social Impact

• Public notification of status
• Restrictions on activities involving children
• Travel limitations
• Difficulty maintaining relationships
• Community stigma

Get Help With Sex Offender Registration From Boulder Defense Lawyers

If you’re facing sex offense charges or seeking removal from the registry, experienced legal representation is crucial. A knowledgeable attorney can:

• Explain your registration obligations
• Help ensure compliance with requirements
• Guide you through the removal petition process
• Protect your rights
• Advocate for your interests in court
• Help minimize the impact on your life

At Dawson Law Office, we understand the complex nature of sex offender registration requirements and the significant impact they have on people’s lives. We provide compassionate, effective legal representation to help clients:

• Understand their registration obligations
• Navigate the registration process
• Petition for removal when eligible
• Challenge registration requirements when appropriate
• Defend against failure to register charges

Contact us today for a confidential consultation about your situation. We’ll explain your options and help you understand the best path forward for your specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Offender Registration

How much does it cost to register as a sex offender in Colorado?

Initial registration fees vary by jurisdiction in Colorado. In Boulder County, you must pay an initial registration fee of $75 and subsequent annual fees of $25. Additional fees may apply for updating information or registering in multiple jurisdictions.

What happens if I miss my registration deadline in Colorado?

Failing to register on time is a serious offense. The first failure to register is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 12-18 months in prison and fines up to $100,000. Subsequent violations are Class 5 felonies with increased penalties. Contact an attorney immediately if you’ve missed a deadline.

Can I move to another state if I’m registered in Colorado?

Yes, but you must follow specific procedures. You need to:

• Notify Colorado authorities before moving
• Register in your new state within 5 days of arrival
• Comply with both states’ requirements initially
• Continue following the new state’s registration laws

Failing to properly transfer registration can result in federal charges.

Will my name and photo appear on the public registry website?

Most registered sex offenders appear on Colorado’s public registry. However, certain juvenile offenders and some lower-level offenses may be excluded from public posting. Quarterly registrants (SVPs) have enhanced public notification requirements.

How do I know if I’m eligible for removal from the registry?

Eligibility depends on your specific offense and circumstances. Generally:

• Misdemeanor offenses: May petition after 5-10 years
• Most felonies: May petition after 20 years
• Some serious offenses: Lifetime registration required

Contact Dawson Law for a detailed review of your eligibility for removal.