Virginia Sex Offender Registry Removal: A Path to Reintegration

For individuals required to register on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry, the prospect of removal represents a significant step towards full reintegration into society. This obligation, while intended to protect communities, imposes profound and often lifelong burdens, affecting housing, employment, relationships, and even basic daily activities. The legal framework governing this registry in Virginia is intricate, and the path to removal, while challenging, is possible for some under specific circumstances.

As a senior attorney with over two decades of experience in Virginia’s legal landscape, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of this registry on individuals and their families. This article aims to demystify the process of seeking removal, outlining the eligibility criteria, the procedural steps, and the critical role that a knowledgeable legal strategy plays. It’s not merely about filing a form; it’s about presenting a comprehensive case that demonstrates your eligibility and readiness for a future free from these burdensome requirements.

Understanding the Stakes: The Impact of Registry Requirements

Being listed on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry carries profound and pervasive consequences that extend far beyond the initial court conviction, impacting nearly every aspect of an individual’s life. The burden of registration is not merely administrative; it creates significant barriers to housing, employment, educational opportunities, and even family relationships, often leading to social isolation and psychological distress. Individuals are often subjected to public scrutiny and stigma, which can severely hinder their ability to rebuild their lives.

Under Virginia law, specifically outlined in Virginia Code § 9.1-901 et seq., those convicted of certain offenses must register with the State Police and keep their information current. This includes frequent updates to addresses, employment, and vehicle information. Failure to comply with these stringent requirements, as detailed in Virginia Code § 9.1-904, can lead to new felony charges, further entrenching an individual in the criminal justice system and making future removal even more difficult, if not impossible. The constant threat of non-compliance charges adds another layer of anxiety to an already challenging existence.

The practical implications are dire. Many housing developments, particularly those near schools or parks, prohibit registered sex offenders. Employment opportunities are severely limited, with background checks routinely exposing registration status, regardless of the nature or age of the underlying conviction. Even volunteer work or participation in community activities can be restricted. For families, the registry can complicate custody arrangements and create immense social pressure on children. The ability to travel, both domestically and internationally, can also be impacted. These are not minor inconveniences; they are fundamental obstacles to living a normal, productive life, underscoring the critical importance of understanding eligibility and pursuing removal when possible.

The Legal Process for Sex Offender Registry Removal in Virginia

The process for seeking removal from the Virginia Sex Offender Registry is a formal legal proceeding initiated in the Circuit Court, demanding strict adherence to statutory requirements and meticulous preparation. It is not an automatic outcome of time served or good behavior; it requires a proactive petition and the presentation of a compelling case to a judge.

Eligibility: The Foundation of Your Petition

The cornerstone of any removal petition is eligibility, primarily governed by Virginia Code § 9.1-910. This statute meticulously outlines the conditions under which an individual may petition for removal. Generally, eligibility hinges on several key factors:

1. Offense Type: The original offense must not be classified as a “sexually violent offense” or certain other egregious crimes, as defined in Virginia Code § 9.1-901. Individuals convicted of these more severe offenses typically face a lifetime registration requirement with no opportunity for removal under § 9.1-910.
2. Age of Victim: If the victim was a minor, their age at the time of the offense plays a critical role. Cases involving victims under specific ages (e.g., 15 for certain crimes) often have different, more stringent, or entirely prohibitive removal criteria.
3. Time Elapsed: A statutory period must have passed since the date of conviction or release from incarceration, parole, or probation, whichever is later. This period varies depending on the nature of the offense but is typically 15 years for most eligible offenses. For some offenses, the waiting period can be 25 years.
4. Clean Record Since: The petitioner must not have been convicted of any other felony or certain misdemeanors, including additional sex offenses, since the date of the original conviction that led to registration.
5. Compliance: The petitioner must demonstrate a history of full and consistent compliance with all registration requirements during the entire period they have been registered. Any failure to report, even minor, can jeopardize a removal petition.
6. Risk Assessment: The court may consider a comprehensive risk assessment to determine if the petitioner remains a danger to the community.

It is crucial to note that eligibility is a threshold matter. Meeting these criteria does not guarantee removal but rather allows the court to consider your petition. A seasoned sex offender lawyer in VA can thoroughly assess your specific conviction history and circumstances against these complex statutory requirements.

Filing the Petition

The journey begins by filing a formal petition in the Virginia Circuit Court in the jurisdiction where you reside or where the conviction occurred. This petition must meticulously detail your eligibility, including the original offense, conviction date, release date, and a sworn statement affirming compliance with all registration laws. The petition must also demonstrate that you do not pose a current danger to the community. This often involves providing evidence of rehabilitation, stable employment, community involvement, and testimonials from credible individuals.

Service of Process

Once filed, the petition must be properly served upon the Commonwealth’s Attorney for the locality where the petition is filed, as well as the Virginia Department of State Police, which maintains the registry. These entities are the primary “respondents” in the case and have the opportunity to object to the removal. The Commonwealth’s Attorney, representing the state, will often review the petitioner’s criminal history, compliance records, and may even interview victims or law enforcement officers involved in the original case.

The Hearing

A hearing will be scheduled before a Circuit Court judge. This is a critical stage where your attorney will present evidence supporting your petition. This may include:

• Testimony from the petitioner (though often not advisable due to the risks of self-incrimination).
• Character witnesses.
• Documentation of employment, education, and community involvement.
• Proof of compliance with registration requirements.
• Expert testimony, if relevant (e.g., psychological evaluations indicating low risk of recidivism).

The Commonwealth’s Attorney will have the opportunity to present evidence in opposition, cross-examine your witnesses, and argue why removal should not be granted. This could involve highlighting past behaviors, lack of remorse, or any instances of non-compliance.

The Judge’s Decision

The judge will weigh all the evidence presented, including the statutory eligibility requirements, the petitioner’s conduct since the conviction, and any objections raised by the Commonwealth. The ultimate decision rests on whether the judge is convinced that the petitioner no longer poses a risk to public safety and meets all legal criteria for removal. If the petition is granted, an order will be entered directing the Virginia Department of State Police to remove the individual’s name from the registry. If denied, the individual typically must wait a specified period (often two years) before filing another petition, unless new circumstances arise.

Navigating this complex legal terrain demands a deep understanding of Virginia’s statutes, court procedures, and the persuasive arguments necessary to overcome potential objections. For those seeking to remove from sex offender registry VA, the guidance of a knowledgeable sex offender lawyer VA is indispensable.

The SRIS Virginia SOR Removal Eligibility Roadmap Tool

Understanding your eligibility for removal from the Virginia Sex Offender Registry is the crucial first step. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. have developed the “Virginia SOR Removal Eligibility Roadmap” to help individuals assess their potential path forward. This tool provides a structured approach to evaluate key factors that Virginia courts consider.

How to Use The SRIS Virginia SOR Removal Eligibility Roadmap:

This roadmap is designed as a guide. It is not a substitute for legal advice but helps organize your information before a confidential case review with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

1. Identify Your Original Offense:
   • What was the specific Virginia Code section you were convicted under? (e.g., § 18.2-67.1, § 18.2-370)
   • Was this offense classified as a “sexually violent offense” under Virginia Code § 9.1-901? (This is a critical distinction; many sexually violent offenses are not eligible for removal.)
   • What was the age of the victim at the time of the offense?
2. Determine Your Statutory Waiting Period:
   • When were you convicted?
   • When were you released from incarceration, parole, or probation (whichever is later)?
   • Has at least 15 or 25 years (depending on the specific offense) passed since the latest of these dates? (Reference Virginia Code § 9.1-910 for specific timeframes.)
3. Review Your Post-Conviction Criminal Record:
   • Have you been convicted of any felony since the original offense?
   • Have you been convicted of any other registrable offense or certain non-registrable misdemeanors (e.g., stalking, abduction) since the original offense?
   • Have you faced any charges for failure to register or update your information?
4. Assess Your Registration Compliance History:
   • Have you consistently complied with all registration requirements (address changes, employment updates, photo updates) as mandated by the Virginia Department of State Police?
   • Can you provide documentation or proof of your diligent compliance over the years?
5. Gather Evidence of Rehabilitation and Community Engagement:
   • Do you have stable employment? If so, for how long?
   • Are you actively involved in community organizations, volunteer work, or religious institutions?
   • Have you pursued further education or vocational training?
   • Are there individuals (employers, community leaders, family members) willing to provide character references attesting to your good standing and low risk?
   • Have you completed any rehabilitative programs or counseling (e.g., sex offender treatment, therapy)?
6. Consider Any Outstanding Obligations:
   • Are there any outstanding fines, restitution, or other court-ordered obligations related to your original conviction that have not been fulfilled?

By meticulously working through these points, you’ll gain a clearer picture of your potential eligibility and the strength of your case. This roadmap helps us identify areas where your petition may be strong and areas that might require additional supportive evidence or legal strategy. It is the initial step in building a robust argument for removal.

Legal Strategies for Successful Registry Removal

Achieving successful removal from the Virginia Sex Offender Registry requires more than simply meeting the eligibility criteria; it demands a strategic, well-articulated legal approach that persuades the court you no longer pose a danger to the community. As a seasoned sex offender lawyer VA, I understand that each case is unique, but certain overarching strategies prove consistently effective.

Crafting a Compelling Narrative of Rehabilitation

The court’s decision under Virginia Code § 9.1-910 often hinges on whether the petitioner “does not pose a current danger to the community.” This is where the narrative of rehabilitation becomes paramount. Our strategy focuses on demonstrating tangible evidence of personal growth and changed circumstances:

• Documented Compliance: Presenting a spotless record of compliance with registration requirements is non-negotiable. This shows respect for the law and the system.
• Stable Lifestyle: Evidence of stable employment, long-term residence, and strong family or community ties indicates responsibility and reduces the likelihood of reoffending.
• Therapeutic Engagement: Participation in and completion of sex offender treatment programs, counseling, or therapy, even if not mandated, can be powerful evidence of introspection and a commitment to addressing underlying issues.
• Community Contributions: Documenting volunteer work, charitable activities, or positive contributions to one’s community showcases a reintegrated and responsible citizen.
• Character Witnesses: Credible individuals, such as employers, religious leaders, or long-term friends, who can testify to the petitioner’s character, behavior, and low risk, can significantly influence the court.

Proactive Evidence Gathering

A strong petition is built on robust evidence. This involves gathering a comprehensive portfolio of documents that support your claim. This may include:

• Official records demonstrating timely registration updates.
• Employment verification letters and pay stubs.
• Certificates of completion for educational or vocational programs.
• Letters of support from employers, community leaders, and family.
• Records from mental health professionals or treatment providers.
• Detailed personal statements, often prepared with counsel, outlining the petitioner’s journey and commitment to a law-abiding life.

Anticipating and Addressing Objections

The Commonwealth’s Attorney will meticulously review your petition and may object to removal. A key strategy is to anticipate these objections and prepare counter-arguments. Common objections include concerns about the severity of the original offense, perceived lack of remorse, or any past instances of non-compliance, however minor. Our approach involves:

• Thorough Case Review: A deep dive into the facts of the original conviction and the petitioner’s entire history since.
• Legal Precedent: Citing relevant Virginia case law that supports similar removal petitions.
• Mitigating Factors: Highlighting any mitigating factors from the original offense that were not fully considered or are no longer relevant.
• Expert Testimony: In some cases, engaging a forensic psychologist or similar professional to provide a comprehensive risk assessment can be instrumental. Their independent evaluation can offer an objective opinion that the petitioner no longer poses a danger.

Skilled Courtroom Advocacy

The hearing itself is a critical juncture. Effective courtroom advocacy involves presenting your case clearly, concisely, and persuasively. This includes:

• Direct and Cross-Examination: Skillfully presenting your evidence and witnesses, and effectively cross-examining any witnesses presented by the Commonwealth.
• Legal Argument: Presenting strong legal arguments grounded in Virginia Code § 9.1-910 and relevant case law.
• Professional Demeanor: Maintaining a respectful and professional approach throughout the proceedings, which can positively influence the court’s perception.

Navigating the nuances of these legal strategies demands the insight of a seasoned sex offender lawyer VA. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. are dedicated to building a comprehensive and compelling case designed to achieve the best possible outcome for those seeking to remove from sex offender registry VA.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Removal Process

When seeking removal from the Virginia Sex Offender Registry, even minor missteps can derail an otherwise strong petition. Avoiding these common pitfalls is as crucial as meeting the eligibility requirements. As an attorney who has guided countless individuals through this process, I’ve observed patterns of errors that consistently undermine removal efforts.

1. Misunderstanding Eligibility Criteria:This is perhaps the most frequent and fundamental mistake. Virginia Code § 9.1-910 is specific. Many individuals assume that if a certain amount of time has passed, they are automatically eligible. However, the type of offense (e.g., sexually violent predator offenses are generally excluded under Virginia Code § 9.1-910.1), the victim’s age, and the absence of subsequent convictions are all critical. Filing a petition without a thorough understanding of these nuances wastes time and resources and can prejudice future attempts. A sex offender lawyer VA can perform a precise eligibility assessment.
2. Failure to Maintain Strict Registry Compliance:The law explicitly requires a history of full and consistent compliance with all registration duties since the date of the original conviction. Any instance of failing to update an address, employment, vehicle information, or any other required detail, even if unintentional or minor, can be used by the Commonwealth’s Attorney to argue against removal. This demonstrates a lack of respect for the law and a continued risk. Vigilance in compliance is paramount throughout the entire registration period and especially leading up to a petition.
3. Lack of Compelling Evidence of Rehabilitation:The court needs to be convinced that you no longer pose a danger. Many petitioners present only minimal evidence of rehabilitation, relying on the passage of time. This is insufficient. A robust petition requires tangible proof of a changed life: stable employment, community involvement, positive character references, and, in some cases, evidence of therapeutic engagement. Without this, the petition becomes a mere formality, easily dismissed.
4. Attempting to Navigate the Process Without Legal Counsel:The legal process for registry removal is complex, involving specific court rules, evidentiary standards, and nuanced legal arguments. Pro se litigants (those representing themselves) often make procedural errors, miss critical deadlines, or fail to present their case in the most persuasive manner. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will be represented by an experienced prosecutor; attempting to counter their arguments without the strategic insight of a seasoned attorney is a significant disadvantage. An experienced sex offender lawyer VA understands how to properly file, serve, present, and argue your case effectively.
5. Underestimating the Commonwealth’s Opposition:The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office is tasked with protecting public safety and will often vigorously oppose removal petitions. They will scrutinize your entire history, looking for any reason to argue against your petition. Many petitioners are unprepared for this level of opposition and the detailed scrutiny of their past. Anticipating and preparing responses to potential objections is a crucial part of a successful strategy.
6. Inadequate Preparation for the Court Hearing:The hearing is your opportunity to convince the judge. This requires meticulous preparation, including organizing all evidence, preparing witnesses (if any), and understanding how to present your narrative effectively. Lack of preparation can lead to a disjointed presentation, missed opportunities to introduce crucial evidence, or an inability to respond effectively to judicial inquiries or prosecutorial arguments.

Avoiding these common mistakes significantly increases your chances of a successful outcome when seeking to remove from sex offender registry VA. Partnering with a legal team experienced in this specialized area of law is the strongest defense against these pitfalls.

Glossary of Key Terms

Navigating the legal landscape of sex offender registry removal requires understanding specific terminology. Here are some key terms:

Petitioner

The individual who files a formal request or application with the court, in this case, seeking removal from the sex offender registry.

Respondent

The party against whom a petition is filed. In sex offender registry removal cases, this typically includes the Commonwealth’s Attorney and the Virginia Department of State Police.

Circuit Court

Virginia’s highest trial court with general jurisdiction, where felony cases are tried and where petitions for sex offender registry removal are filed and heard.

Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Children Registry

The official database maintained by the Virginia Department of State Police containing information on individuals convicted of certain sex offenses.

Virginia Code § 9.1-910

The specific Virginia statute that outlines the conditions and procedures under which an individual may petition for removal from the Sex Offender Registry.

Virginia Code § 9.1-901

The Virginia statute that defines key terms related to the sex offender registry, including what constitutes a “sexually violent offense” and a “sexually violent predator.”

Commonwealth’s Attorney

The chief prosecuting officer for a locality in Virginia, representing the state’s interest in criminal matters and often opposing petitions for registry removal.

Sexually Violent Predator (SVP)

A classification for individuals who have committed certain sexually violent offenses and, by reason of a mental abnormality or personality disorder, pose a danger to others. SVPs typically face different, more restrictive, and often permanent registration requirements under Virginia Code § 9.1-910.1.

Common Scenarios & Client Questions

Clients often come to us with unique situations, but many fall into common patterns of concern or inquiry regarding Virginia sex offender registry removal. Here are a few realistic scenarios and the types of questions they provoke:

Scenario 1: The Juvenile Offender Now an Adult

A client was convicted of a registrable offense as a juvenile nearly two decades ago. The conviction was for a non-violent, non-contact offense, and they have lived a completely law-abiding life since, with a stable career and family. They complied with all registry requirements for years but feel the continued burden is unfair given their current life and the distant nature of the offense.

• Client Question: “My conviction was so long ago, and I was just a kid. Am I still eligible for removal even though I was a juvenile?”
• Attorney Insight: Virginia law does allow for the removal of certain juvenile adjudications from the registry, provided specific criteria are met, particularly regarding the nature of the offense and the time elapsed. While a juvenile record might be treated differently for some purposes, for sex offender registration, the underlying offense’s severity and the victim’s age remain critical. We would meticulously review the juvenile court records and Virginia Code § 9.1-910 to determine eligibility and the strongest arguments for demonstrating rehabilitation and no current danger.

Scenario 2: The Interstate Mover Seeking Relief

A client was convicted in Virginia, registered, and later moved to another state, also registering there. Now, after several years of compliance in both states, they want to know if removing their name from the Virginia registry will also remove it from the new state’s registry or if they need to pursue separate actions.

• Client Question: “If I get off the Virginia registry, does that mean I’m automatically off the registry in other states where I’m also registered?”
• Attorney Insight: Unfortunately, removal from Virginia’s registry typically does not automatically remove you from another state’s registry. Each state has its own registration laws and removal procedures. While a successful removal in Virginia could be a powerful argument and persuasive evidence in another jurisdiction, it usually requires a separate legal process in that state. We would advise pursuing the Virginia removal first, as it establishes a foundation, then assessing the feasibility and process for removal in the other state.

Scenario 3: The Technical Non-Compliance Fear

A client missed updating their employment information for a few weeks several years ago due to a period of unemployment and subsequent new job, but promptly corrected it as soon as they realized. They are concerned this past technical non-compliance, which did not result in charges, will prevent their removal from the sex offender registry VA.

• Client Question: “I had a lapse in updating my info years ago, but fixed it quickly. Will that minor mistake disqualify me from removal?”
• Attorney Insight: While strict compliance is critical, minor, isolated, and promptly corrected instances of non-compliance, particularly if they didn’t lead to charges, might not automatically disqualify you. The court will consider the overall pattern of compliance. We would gather all records related to your compliance, prepare an explanation for the lapse, and emphasize your otherwise diligent adherence to the rules. The focus would be on demonstrating that it was an anomaly, not a pattern of disregard, and that you have otherwise met the “full compliance” requirement of Virginia Code § 9.1-910.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia SOR Removal

Q1: What is the primary Virginia law governing sex offender registry removal?

A: The primary law governing sex offender registry removal in Virginia is Virginia Code § 9.1-910. This statute outlines the specific eligibility criteria and the legal process for petitioning the Circuit Court for removal. For sexually violent predators, Virginia Code § 9.1-910.1 applies, which generally allows for no removal.

Q2: How long do I typically have to wait before I can petition for removal?

A: The waiting period varies based on the specific offense, but for most eligible offenses, it is either 15 or 25 years from the date of conviction or release from incarceration, parole, or probation, whichever is later. For sexually violent offenses, the waiting period can be indefinite.

Q3: Can I be removed from the registry if my original conviction was for a sexually violent offense?

A: Generally, no. Virginia Code § 9.1-910 largely excludes individuals convicted of “sexually violent offenses” (as defined in § 9.1-901) from being eligible for removal. These offenses often carry a lifetime registration requirement.

Q4: What if I was convicted as a juvenile? Can my name be removed from the registry?

A: Yes, certain juvenile adjudications for registrable offenses can be eligible for removal under Virginia Code § 9.1-910, provided they meet the specific criteria regarding offense type, victim’s age, and the passage of time without further qualifying convictions. The process is similar to adult petitions.

Q5: Do I need a lawyer to file a petition for registry removal?

A: While not legally mandatory, attempting to remove from sex offender registry VA without legal counsel is highly discouraged. The process is complex, involves specific court procedures, and requires presenting a compelling case to a judge. A seasoned sex offender lawyer VA can navigate these intricacies, gather necessary evidence, and advocate effectively on your behalf.

Q6: What courts handle sex offender registry removal petitions in Virginia?

A: Petitions for sex offender registry removal are heard and decided in the Virginia Circuit Courts. The petition is typically filed in the Circuit Court for the city or county where you reside or where your original conviction occurred.

Q7: What role does the Virginia Department of State Police play in the removal process?

A: The Virginia Department of State Police maintains the Sex Offender Registry. They are a necessary party to the removal petition and must be served with the legal documents. They will review your compliance history and may object to your removal if there are any discrepancies or concerns.

Q8: What evidence do I need to present to the court to support my petition?

A: You’ll need to present evidence of your eligibility (e.g., conviction records, release dates), a spotless record of compliance with registration requirements, and proof that you no longer pose a danger to the community. This often includes character references, employment history, community involvement, and potentially psychological evaluations.

Q9: What happens if my petition for removal is denied?

A: If your petition is denied, the court typically issues an order stating the reasons for the denial. In most cases, you would have to wait a certain period (often two years) before you can file another petition, unless new circumstances arise that significantly change your eligibility or risk assessment.

Q10: Does removal from the Virginia registry remove me from registries in other states?

A: No. Removal from the Virginia Sex Offender Registry typically only applies to Virginia’s registry. If you are registered in other states due to residency or other factors, you will likely need to pursue separate removal processes in those states, following their specific laws and procedures.

Q11: Can past non-compliance with registration requirements prevent my removal?

A: Yes. A history of consistent and full compliance with registration requirements is a statutory prerequisite for removal under Virginia Code § 9.1-910. Any failure to register or update information, even if it didn’t result in new charges, can be used by the Commonwealth’s Attorney to argue against your petition and demonstrate that you have not fulfilled all statutory requirements.

Q12: Is there a way to expunge a sex offense conviction in Virginia?

A: In Virginia, adult felony sex offense convictions generally cannot be expunged. Expungement in Virginia is typically reserved for charges that were dismissed, acquitted, or where a nolle prosequi was entered. Registry removal is a separate process from expungement and does not erase the underlying conviction itself, but rather lifts the obligation to register.

Q13: How long does the sex offender registry removal process typically take?

A: The timeline can vary significantly based on court dockets, the complexity of your case, and whether the Commonwealth’s Attorney objects. From filing the petition to receiving a final decision, the process can take several months, sometimes up to a year or more. Patience and persistent legal advocacy are key.

Q14: What is the role of the Commonwealth’s Attorney in this process?

A: The Commonwealth’s Attorney represents the interests of the state and public safety. They are served with your petition and have the right to investigate your case, review your criminal history and compliance, and present arguments or evidence to the court in opposition to your removal.

Q15: What factors does the judge consider when deciding on a removal petition?

A: The judge considers statutory eligibility (Virginia Code § 9.1-910), the nature and circumstances of the original offense, your conduct since the conviction (including compliance with registration), evidence of rehabilitation, community ties, and whether you pose a current danger to public safety. The burden is on the petitioner to prove they meet these criteria.

Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Today

If you believe you may be eligible for removal from the Virginia Sex Offender Registry and are prepared to take this critical step toward rebuilding your life, do not hesitate to seek counsel. The journey to remove from sex offender registry VA is complex and fraught with legal intricacies that demand seasoned guidance. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has decades of experience navigating these challenges, providing the strategic insight and unwavering advocacy necessary to present your strongest possible case.

Protecting your future requires decisive action and informed legal representation. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today at 888-437-7747 for a confidential case review. Let us help you understand your options and pursue the path to reintegration.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not intended as legal advice. The laws regarding sex offender registry removal are complex and specific to individual circumstances. You should consult with a qualified attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for advice regarding your specific situation. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this article or by contacting Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. via the provided phone number or website before a formal engagement agreement is signed.