Post-Conviction Relief in Arizona, Clear Your Record and Move Forward

At Grand Canyon Law Group, we’ve had the privilege of helping countless individuals take steps to clean up their records and move forward from past convictions. Whether it’s setting aside a conviction, restoring gun rights, or sealing a record, post-conviction relief offers a path to a brighter future.

If you’re ready to leave your past behind and embrace new opportunities, this guide will explain how post-conviction relief works in Arizona and the options available to you.

What Is Post-Conviction Relief?

Post-conviction relief allows individuals with criminal records to take steps to reduce the long-term impact of their convictions. Arizona provides several legal avenues to help people rebuild their lives, such as setting aside convictions, restoring civil rights, and sealing records.

By pursuing post-conviction relief, you can:

• Improve your job and housing prospects.
• Restore your civil rights, including gun rights.
• Gain peace of mind knowing your record no longer defines your future.

Key Types of Post-Conviction Relief in Arizona

1. Setting Aside a Conviction

A set-aside is Arizona’s version of expungement. While it doesn’t erase the conviction, it changes the status of the conviction to “set aside” and shows that you have successfully completed the terms of your sentence.

Benefits of a Set-Aside:

• Removes the stigma of a criminal conviction.
• Opens up employment and housing opportunities.
• Helps demonstrate rehabilitation to future employers, landlords, and others.

2. Certificate of Second Chance

A Certificate of Second Chance goes beyond a set-aside by providing additional protections and benefits. It allows individuals to apply for certain licenses, certifications, and housing or employment opportunities that may have previously been off-limits due to their conviction.

Who Qualifies?
Eligibility depends on the offense and whether you’ve completed all court-ordered requirements. Certificates of Second Chance are often granted alongside a set-aside.

3. Restoring Gun Rights

If your conviction led to the loss of your right to own or possess firearms, Arizona law provides a process to restore those rights.

How It Works:

• Gun rights can typically be restored after completing probation or your sentence.
• Certain offenses, such as felonies involving violence, may disqualify you.

Restoring your gun rights can be an empowering step in regaining your full citizenship privileges.

4. Sealing Records

In Arizona, individuals may now seal their criminal records under specific conditions. Once sealed, the record is no longer accessible to the public, including potential employers, landlords, and others conducting background checks.

What Sealing Accomplishes:

• Prevents discrimination based on past convictions.
• Provides a fresh start for individuals moving forward.

How Post-Conviction Relief Can Change Your Life

Criminal convictions can create barriers in many areas of life. Post-conviction relief removes these obstacles and allows you to focus on building a better future.

Employment Opportunities

Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record can be a dealbreaker. Setting aside a conviction or sealing your record shows that you’ve taken steps to rehabilitate and meet the requirements of the law.

Restoring Civil Rights

Restoring civil rights—like voting, serving on a jury, or owning a firearm—helps individuals fully reintegrate into society and regain their sense of independence.

Housing Applications

Landlords often deny applicants with criminal records. Post-conviction relief ensures your past won’t prevent you from finding a safe place to live.

How to Start the Post-Conviction Relief Process in Arizona

The process depends on the type of relief you’re seeking. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consult with an Attorney: The first step is to discuss your specific circumstances with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney.
2. File a Petition: Your attorney will prepare and file the necessary legal documents with the court.
3. Attend a Hearing: In some cases, you may need to attend a court hearing. Your attorney will advocate on your behalf, presenting evidence of your rehabilitation and why relief is warranted.
4. Receive a Decision: The court will issue its decision, which could include setting aside your conviction, restoring your rights, or sealing your record.

Why Choose Grand Canyon Law Group for Post-Conviction Relief?

At Grand Canyon Law Group, we understand that your past doesn’t define your future. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through every step of the post-conviction relief process, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Why Work With Us?

• Experience: We’ve successfully helped clients across Arizona navigate post-conviction relief.
• Compassion: We understand the challenges you face and are dedicated to helping you move forward.
• Results-Oriented: Our team fights tirelessly to achieve the best results for our clients.

Take the Next Step Toward a Brighter Future

If you’re ready to clean up your record and move on with your life, contact Grand Canyon Law Group today. We’ll evaluate your situation, explain your options, and guide you through the process with care and professionalism.

📞 Call us at (480) 573-6441 or visit our website to schedule a confidential consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward a fresh start.

FAQs

1. Can any conviction be set aside in Arizona?
   No, some convictions—such as those involving severe violence or sexual offenses—may not qualify for a set-aside.
2. How long does it take to seal a record?
   The timeline varies based on the complexity of your case and the court’s schedule, but the process typically takes several months.
3. Can I restore my gun rights after a felony conviction?
   In many cases, yes. However, violent felonies or those involving weapons may disqualify you. Consulting an attorney is the best way to understand your eligibility.