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Understanding Notification Requirements, Sexual Risk Orders, and Sexual Harm Prevention Orders

Courts in the UK can impose a range of restrictions and orders on individuals convicted or suspected of committing sexual offences. These include Notification Requirements, Sexual Risk Orders (SROs), Sexual Harm Prevention Orders (SHPOs), and Sexual Offences Prevention Orders (SOPOs), each designed to protect the public by placing specific conditions on the behaviour and movements of those subject to the orders.

At Allen Hoole Solicitors, we regularly advise clients on these complex legal provisions. We assist in understanding whether convictions might attract such orders, the potential conditions, and the process for challenging or ending these orders. As one of the largest criminal defence firms in the South West of England, our team of experienced solicitor advocates and access to top specialist barristers gives us a unique advantage in managing these cases and ensuring the best possible outcome for our clients.

Notification Requirements

Notification requirements are often referred to as the Sex Offender Register. Anyone convicted of a sexual offence may be required to comply with certain notification obligations, including:

  • Informing the police of their personal details, such as address and travel plans,
  • Regularly updating this information, especially if they move or travel abroad,
  • Notification typically lasts for a set period, depending on the seriousness of the offence (ranging from 2 years to life).

Challenging notification requirements or appealing the duration may be possible under certain circumstances. We assist clients by assessing the legal grounds for such challenges and advising on the process for removal from the register.

Sexual Harm Prevention Orders (SHPOs)

A Sexual Harm Prevention Order can be imposed on individuals who have been convicted of a sexual offence and pose an ongoing risk. These orders:

  • Impose restrictions on behaviour, such as limiting internet use, preventing contact with minors, or banning entry to specific locations (e.g., schools, parks),
  • Last for a minimum of 5 years, with potential for extension or indefinite duration if necessary,
  • Breaching an SHPO is a criminal offence and can result in imprisonment.

Our firm advises clients on whether a conviction is likely to result in an SHPO and what conditions may be imposed. We can also assist in challenging the imposition or modifying conditions of an SHPO if the restrictions are deemed too harsh or unnecessary.

Sexual Risk Orders (SROs)

Unlike SHPOs, Sexual Risk Orders can be imposed on individuals who have not been convicted of a sexual offence but are believed to pose a risk of sexual harm. These orders:

  • Restrict behaviour in a similar manner to SHPOs,
  • Are often based on suspicion rather than conviction, making them controversial,
  • Can last indefinitely or be extended based on ongoing risk assessments.

We help clients challenge the imposition of SROs, which may be based on unproven allegations or erroneous risk assessments. Our team also handles applications to vary or end SROs when they are no longer necessary or justified.

Sexual Offences Prevention Orders (SOPOs)

Although Sexual Offences Prevention Orders (SOPOs) were replaced by SHPOs in 2015, some individuals may still be subject to a SOPO imposed before this change. These orders function similarly to SHPOs by imposing restrictions on those convicted of sexual offences. Our firm is well-versed in handling applications to end or modify these legacy orders and can provide expert advice on transitioning from SOPOs to the modern framework of SHPOs.

Challenging and Ending These Orders

At Allen Hoole Solicitors, we recognise that these orders can impose significant restrictions on your personal and professional life. We have extensive experience in:

  • Challenging the imposition of such orders in court,
  • Appealing against the conditions set, especially if they are too restrictive or not proportionate to the risk,
  • Making applications to end the orders once they are no longer needed, based on risk reassessments or changes in circumstances.

Our legal team works with forensic, psychiatric, and psychological experts to support challenges to these orders, especially when they are based on questionable risk assessments.

Why Choose Allen Hoole Solicitors?

As one of the largest criminal defence firms in the South West of England, our team of experienced solicitor advocates provides expert guidance in navigating these complicated orders. With access to the best specialist barristers and experts, we ensure that our clients receive the strongest possible defence when facing the imposition of these orders or when seeking to challenge or end them.

If you or someone you know is facing the possibility of Notification Requirements, Sexual Risk Orders, Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, or legacy SOPOs, contact Allen Hoole Solicitors today. We are available 24/7 to provide expert legal advice and representation, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.