Michigan SORA
Sex Offender Registry Act Attorneys
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys
Recent changes in Michigan law may offer you the opportunity to have your conviction set aside or to relieve you from obligations imposed by SORA. As attorneys who have been at the forefront of challenging and changing this law, Oliver Bell Group is your best choice for navigating these complex legal issues. Contact us today to explore how we can assist you
Fighting Against Michigan’s Unconstitutional SORA Since 2018
Michigan has one of the highest numbers of registered sex offenders in the United States, with nearly 44,000 individuals listed. This large number is partly due to the state’s contentious Sex Offender Registry Act (SORA), which retroactively placed individuals on the list following amendments made in 2006 and 2011. SORA was deemed unconstitutional in 2016, and Oliver Bell Group, in collaboration with the ACLU, successfully worked to change it in 2020. Despite these efforts, the remnants of SORA continue to impact lives across Michigan. Our Troy based criminal defense attorneys are committed to addressing these unfair consequences and fighting for those adversely affected
The Problems With SORA
SORA was ruled unconstitutional for several key reasons:
- Violation of Privacy Rights: The law infringes on the right to privacy of registered individuals.
- Retroactive Punishment: It wrongfully punishes individuals for offenses after their original sentencing.
- Strict and Unfair Rules: SORA imposes stringent restrictions, such as prohibiting residence or employment within 1,000 feet of schools, requiring the disclosure of personal information, and frequent reporting to police. These rules apply even to those who committed offenses decades ago.
- Impact on Youth Offenders: Individuals who were convicted as teenagers or young adults, and whose records were previously privatized, now face public registration and lifelong obligations due to retroactive amendments
How We Can Help
If you are dealing with the consequences of SORA, Oliver Bell Group offers dedicated legal support. Our attorneys have a proven history of advocating for the rights of registered sex offenders and are uniquely positioned to help you navigate this complex legal landscape.
Oliver Bell Group was the only private law firm in Michigan appointed as class counsel with the ACLU and the University of Michigan in the fight to change the effects stemming from Does II. Our deep involvement in Does II since SORA was deemed unconstitutional in 2016 makes us the best choice for your legal representation.
Updates to SORA
On February 14, 2020, Judge Cleland issued a landmark ruling in Does v. Snyder II, declaring SORA unconstitutional. This decision confirmed that SORA violated the Ex Post Facto Clause by retroactively expanding punishments. The ruling mandated that the Michigan State Legislature amend SORA to address these violations.
As a result, the Michigan Legislature passed a new SORA law that was implemented in 2021. However, as a result of the new 2021 SORA law, a Does III class action is ongoing addressing some of the inequities stemming from same. Please follow up with the ACLU for more updates on Does III.
Key documents from the litigation include:
- Does v. Whitmer Joint Status Report – August 4, 2020
- Does v. Whitmer Joint Status Report – June 5, 2020
- Does v. Snyder II Interim Order – April 6, 2020
- Does v. Snyder II Memorandum – March 30, 2020
- Does v. Snyder II Opinion and Order Granting – June 21, 2021
- Final Judgment – August 4, 2021
Ready to Defend Your Rights?
Contact Oliver Bell Group today to reclaim your freedom. While nearly all consultations are free, please note that Michigan SORA consultations come with a $100.00 fee due to their high demand and the considerable effort required. Call or message us now to schedule your consultation and take an important step toward protecting your future.
