Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA)
The original purpose of the Sex Offenders Registration Act (SORA) was to protect people and neighborhoods from true sexual predators. People who molested children or forced sex were required to register and report their addresses.
The act also required registry of youthful offenders, for example, a boy of 17 with a girl of 15. Most Michigan residents agree that the penalty for that crime is sufficient in itself, and it does not seem right to require registry of a "Romeo and Juliet" offender on the SORA list with child molesters and rapists. The Legislature has revised the Michigan SORA laws. For offenders in lesser categories (Tiers) and who meet certain criteria, it is possible to be removed from the SORA list.
SORA Removal
Make an appointment with an attorney from Poulson & Associates, PLLC. We will review the circumstances of a SORA conviction and tell you if it appears that a removal petition might be granted.
If retained, we will draft and file the removal petition and represent you in court.
You should be prepared to bring to your interview:
- Details of the date of the conviction,
- Information as to the type of conviction,
- Proof of the age of the offender,
- Proof of the age of the victim, and
- Criminal history, if any, since the original conviction.
It is important to know that no relief is possible for violent sex offenders or child molesters. But, if you are entitled to removal from SORA, we can help you.
SORA Violations
SORA registration and reporting requirements are very strictly enforced.
- If you think you may have violated your reporting requirements, contact us.
- If you have been charged with any type of registration error or infraction, you should contact us to represent you.
- If you know a SORA registrant who is homeless, be aware that the law has changed. Homeless people still have to register. Now, they can.
If you are a SORA registrant and plan to move out of state, contact us well before moving to understand the requirements of Michigan law.