An accusation of a sex crime is no laughing matter. Even if it’s untrue, if you’re judged as guilty, it could mean the end of your life as you know it.

Sex offenders don’t always end up with prison sentences, but the label itself is enough to follow you around. It’s essential that you find a qualified attorney who is skilled in protecting those accused of sex crimes.

Without expert help, you may be unable to fight the charges against you. These shocking facts about sex offenders show the urgency behind getting help. You don’t want to be stuck dealing with the long-term consequences.

1. The label “sex offender” covers a wide range of crimes. When you’re given this label, it’s attached to you for public viewing. But in many cases, there isn’t more detail. Sex offenders are divided by “classes”. You may have a lesser charge, yet no one else knows if you were guilty of sex trafficking, child pornography, or sexually molesting a minor.

In some cases, a 17-year-old who engages in “normal” sexual relations with their 15-year-old boyfriend or girlfriend ends up with charges against them. The public consequences are the same for all sex offenders.

2. Sex offenders can’t own or possess firearms. In many states, having the label of sex offender will prevent you from being able to legally own or carry a gun.

3. You may not be able to vote. As a convicted sex offender, state and federal elections may be off-limits to you.

4. You’ll have probation limiting your movements. It’s pretty much a guarantee that you’ll end up on probation at some point. During that time, your movements will be tracked and limited. You won’t be able to travel outside of the state, and you may be told where you can and can’t go.

5. Job options are limited. Let’s face it. Some of the more “prestigious” careers, such as working in a bank or at a school, frown on sexual offenders. You won’t be able to hold certain federal or state jobs, and you’ll be subject to the opinions of whoever is reading your background check.

6. Going to public places is also limited. Since the label of “sex offender” can follow you for years, or for life, it’s going to be hard if you have your own children or want to visit family. Public and private schools, daycares, public swimming pools or parks, libraries, and more are all mandatory screeners for sex offenders. If you’re allowed in, you may have to wear a label that designates you as such.

7. You may not be able to further your career. Many professional licenses, such as law, counseling, and nursing, are off-limits to sex offenders.

8. Your dating life will take a hit. If you’re honest with the person you’re dating about your past, which you should be, they’ll likely be leery about continuing to see you. And many dating websites screen for sex offenders.

9. College could be out of the books. It’s hard to find a college or higher learning institution that will admit a sex offender, and getting financial aid is also an obstacle with this label.

10. International travel is hindered. Sex offenders’ ability to travel outside of the country is restricted.

The “sex offender” label significantly impacts your freedom, whether you were guilty or falsely accused. To prevent the loss of your future being in your control, find an attorney who can help you.