How to Apply for Expungement Successfully in Arizona
Having a criminal record in Arizona can limit opportunities, even long after you’ve served your sentence or had charges dismissed. Whether you’re applying for a job, seeking housing, or trying to restore your civil rights, past convictions or arrests can hold you back. While Arizona does not offer broad expungement like other states, there are still legal tools available to help you move forward—specifically, record sealing and marijuana expungement under Proposition 207.
If you’re wondering whether your record qualifies for relief, how to apply, and what options are available in Arizona, this guide explains the current laws and how our team can help you take the next step.
Assessing Eligibility for Expungement in Arizona
Arizona only allows expungement for specific marijuana-related offenses. However, many individuals may still qualify for record sealing, which offers similar protections by making records inaccessible to the public in most cases.
Marijuana Expungement Under Proposition 207
If you were arrested, charged, or convicted for certain marijuana-related offenses before recreational use became legal in Arizona, you may be eligible for expungement. Eligible cases include:
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Possessing, consuming, or transporting up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana (no more than 12.5 grams of which was concentrate)
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Possessing, transporting, or cultivating up to six marijuana plants for personal use
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Paraphernalia related to marijuana possession or use
If your record falls into one of these categories, our firm can help you file a petition to have it expunged completely.
Record Sealing as an Alternative to Expungement
For offenses outside of marijuana possession, Arizona offers record sealing—not expungement. Record sealing allows eligible individuals to restrict public access to their criminal case history, helping you pass background checks and improve employment or housing prospects. Eligibility includes:
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Arrests that did not lead to charges
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Dismissed charges
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Acquittals
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Certain convictions after a waiting period and successful rehabilitation
Our team can review your case to determine whether you’re eligible for record sealing and guide you through the process.
Understanding Arizona’s Legal Requirements
Unlike other states, Arizona has strict limitations on expungement. The majority of cases must go through the record sealing process. It’s important to know the difference and understand the procedures involved.
Jurisdictional Rules in Arizona
Petitions for expungement or sealing must be filed in the same court where the original case was handled. Arizona courts each have their own forms and filing rules, so precision matters. We’ll ensure your petition is filed in the right jurisdiction with the correct documentation.
Offenses That Do Not Qualify
Expungement in Arizona is not available for:
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Felonies not related to marijuana
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Violent or sexual offenses
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DUI charges
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Repeat offenses that indicate a pattern of criminal behavior
However, you may still qualify for set-asides or record sealing, depending on the specifics of your case.
What Documents Are Needed
Strong documentation is essential for filing a successful petition, whether you’re seeking a marijuana expungement or record sealing.
Court and Identification Records
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Certified case documents (including disposition or sentencing orders)
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Government-issued ID matching court records
Proof of Rehabilitation (for record sealing)
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Employment verification
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Educational achievements or vocational training
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Completion of probation or community service
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Letters of recommendation from employers or mentors
We will help you gather, review, and submit every required document to ensure your case is presented as strongly as possible.
Filing Your Petition with the Court
Once eligibility is established and documentation is organized, the next step is filing your petition.
Using the Correct Forms
Each Arizona court has specific forms for marijuana expungement and record sealing. Our attorneys handle this step to ensure everything is filled out accurately and submitted correctly.
Paying the Required Fees
Fees may apply when filing a petition. Some individuals may qualify for a fee waiver based on financial need. We can help you determine whether a waiver is possible in your case.
Meeting All Deadlines
Missing a deadline can delay or jeopardize your request. We maintain a clear timeline of your case milestones and ensure that every step is handled on time.
Making a Strong Case for Relief
Presenting a compelling case involves more than filling out paperwork. Your petition must demonstrate why sealing or expunging your record serves justice and benefits your rehabilitation.
Personal Statements and Testimonials
Our team helps you draft a personal statement that shows growth, rehabilitation, and the impact the record has had on your life. We may also submit letters from employers, teachers, or community leaders who support your efforts.
Addressing the Court’s Concerns
We proactively address any concerns the court may have about your background. This may include explaining any gaps, clarifying minor violations, or showing continued good behavior. Our legal strategy is tailored to each client’s unique history.
Following Up After Filing
After submitting your petition, we actively monitor the case for court updates and requests.
Tracking the Status
We stay in contact with the court and follow up on your behalf to track the progress of your petition. Many clients receive updates from us before they even hear from the court.
Responding to Court Requests
If the court asks for more documentation or clarification, we respond promptly and professionally—ensuring your case keeps moving forward.
Preparing for a Hearing (If Required)
Some cases may require a hearing. If so, we prepare you thoroughly and represent you in court. Our attorneys will present your case and answer any questions raised by the judge.
What If the Petition Is Denied?
A denial isn’t the end of the road. In Arizona, there are procedures for appealing a denial or filing again with stronger supporting evidence.
We review the court’s reasoning for denial and advise on whether an appeal is appropriate or if it’s better to revise and refile. Many denials can be reversed with the right adjustments and legal support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is expungement available in Arizona for all crimes?
A: No. Expungement is only available for certain marijuana-related offenses under Proposition 207. Other offenses may qualify for record sealing or set-asides.
Q: Can I expunge an arrest if I wasn’t convicted?
A: Not through expungement, but you may qualify to have the arrest record sealed. Arizona allows individuals to petition for sealing of records in cases where charges were dropped, dismissed, or resulted in an acquittal.
Q: How long does the record sealing process take?
A: Timelines vary by case and court workload, but many petitions are resolved within three to six months.
Q: Do I need an attorney to file for record sealing or expungement?
A: It’s not legally required, but having an attorney significantly increases your chances of success. We handle the legal complexities and ensure your petition is complete, accurate, and timely.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to clear your record and start fresh, we’re here to help. Our legal team handles every step of the marijuana expungement and record sealing process—from eligibility review and document collection to court filings and hearings.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. We also offer flexible payment plans to make justice more accessible.
