A criminal record doesn’t have to follow you forever. Whether it’s affecting job prospects, housing, or professional licensing, clearing your criminal record can open doors that once seemed closed. Thanks to recent changes in Arizona law, more people now qualify for record relief options like sealing, set-asides, and limited expungement. At Future First Criminal Law, we help clients across Arizona understand their rights and take action to move forward confidently.
Why Clearing Your Record Matters
Protecting Your Future
A past conviction, or even an old dismissed charge, can show up on background checks. That can mean fewer job offers, rental rejections, and lost opportunities. Sealing or setting aside your record helps ensure the past doesn’t define your future.
Recent Changes in Arizona Law
Arizona has traditionally been strict about post-conviction relief. But as of January 1, 2023, new laws like A.R.S. § 13-911 (sealing records) and A.R.S. § 36-2862 (expungement of marijuana offenses) provide expanded options for eligible individuals to seal or, in limited cases, expunge certain records.
Your Options for Record Clearing in Arizona
Set Aside vs. Sealing vs. Expungement
Set Aside
Under A.R.S. § 13-905, a set aside vacates the judgment of guilt after a conviction. This tells the court you’ve fulfilled your sentence, but the record remains public. It’s often the first step toward sealing and may restore civil rights.
Sealing
Under A.R.S. § 13-911, sealing prevents most employers, landlords, and the public from seeing your record. The record still exists but becomes invisible to general background checks. Law enforcement and certain agencies can still access sealed records.
Expungement
Expungement is limited in Arizona to specific marijuana-related offenses under Proposition 207 and A.R.S. § 36-2862. It results in complete destruction of the record, removing it entirely from state databases.
If you’re not sure where you fit, read our guide on understanding expungement eligibility requirements.
Who Qualifies for Record Clearing in Arizona
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify for Sealing Records if:
- Your case was dismissed, not filed, or resulted in acquittal
- You completed all sentence requirements (including jail, probation, fines, or restitution)
- You’ve waited the required time after sentence completion:
- 2 years for class 2 or 3 misdemeanors
- 3 years for class 1 misdemeanors
- 5 years for class 4, 5, or 6 felonies
- 10 years for class 2 or 3 felonies
- You have no new criminal convictions
- Your offense is not excluded by statute
Disqualifying Offenses
Not all cases are eligible. Arizona law excludes certain offenses from sealing, including:
- Dangerous offenses
- Sexual offenses
- Crimes involving deadly weapons
- Crimes with victims under age 15
- Serious violent felonies (e.g., aggravated assault, manslaughter)
Federal Law Complications
Set Asides and Sealing is always the first step in complete record removal. Even if Arizona law allows you to seal or expunge a record, federal agencies may still view sealed records, especially for immigration, firearm background checks, or federal employment. Read more in Can changes in federal law affect your Arizona criminal record relief?
How Future First Criminal Law Helps
Our Process
We guide you through every step of the process:
- Reviewing your record
- Identifying the right type of relief
- Preparing and filing petitions
- Representing you at hearings, if required
- Ensuring agencies update your record properly after relief is granted
Why Choose Us
Our firm focuses almost exclusively on post-conviction relief: sealing, expungement, and set-asides. We stay current on the law and work closely with Arizona courts to help you reclaim your future.
How to Get Started
Start with a confidential review, we’ll help you determine your eligibility, gather the right documents, and outline your options. You can apply online if you’re ready to begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between expungement and sealing?
Expungement (available only for marijuana offenses under Prop 207) deletes the record entirely.
Sealing (available under A.R.S. § 13-911) hides the record from the public but allows access by law enforcement and certain government agencies.
How long does the process take?
The sealing or set-aside process generally takes 3–6 months, depending on the complexity of your case, the court’s timeline, and whether a hearing is required. However, there are many cases that have been approved in much shorter time, it just depends on each case and judge.
Can I say I’ve never been convicted after sealing my record?
Yes, once your petition to seal is granted under A.R.S. § 13-911, you may legally state that you have never been arrested, charged, or convicted of the sealed offense in most situations.
Exceptions apply for government jobs, fingerprint clearance cards, or positions involving vulnerable populations.
Will sealing help me get a job?
Yes, in most cases. Employers using background checks generally cannot access sealed records. Learn more in our post on navigating employment discrimination after record sealing.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Record Today
Clearing your criminal record in Arizona isn’t just possible, it’s a smart investment in your future. Whether you’re applying for a job, housing, a professional license, or simply want peace of mind, our team at Future First Criminal Law is ready to do it for you.
Start by visiting our homepage or learning more about your expungement options.
Your future deserves a clean slate.
Zachary Divelbiss, Lawyer
Future First Criminal Law
