Penalties of Conviction
In Massachusetts and most other states, convicted sex offenders are required to register with the state's Sex Offender Registry Board (SORB). This is one of the worst consequences of a sex crime conviction. Even misdemeanor offenses require SORB registration for 20 years, even if you were a juvenile at the time of the offense.
Depending on the type of sex crime you are convicted for, you may be able to petition the SORB to terminate your registration early if you have been registered for at least 10 years. However, even if you are eligible to apply for relief, there is still no guarantee that your request will be allowed. Successfully terminating your duty to register early can be very difficult. Certain sex crimes involving children or violence require registration for life and cannot be terminated under any circumstances.
If you are convicted and required to register with the SORB, your name and reputation will likely be tarnished forever. You'll face significant restrictions applying for jobs, housing, educational programs and firearms ownership.
