Below is a step-by-step guide to the sealing process under Arizona law:

1. Obtain Your Criminal/Case History

Start by requesting your case records from the relevant court(s) and your criminal history from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). You’ll need case numbers, charges, dates, disposition, arresting agency, and docket details. 

2. Confirm Eligibility

Compare your case(s) to the eligibility criteria and waiting periods above. Ensure that:

• All sentence terms (monetary and nonmonetary) are satisfied
• The requisite waiting period has elapsed
• Your offense is not excluded under 13‑911(O)
• You have not filed a prior petition within the last 3 years that was denied 

You may want legal assistance for borderline or complex cases.

3. Prepare and File the Petition to Seal Case Records

Complete the mandatory court forms (often designated by the Administrative Director under Rule 36.1). These include a petition, case information, and supporting documentation (discharge orders, proof of payment of fines/restitution, certificate of absolute discharge, etc.). 

You must file the petition in the court where your case was heard:

• In which you were convicted
• Or where the charge was filed and dismissed
• Or where the arrest occurred if no charges were filed 

4. Notify the Prosecutor and Victims, Wait 60 Days

Once filed, the court must notify the prosecutor. Victims who have requested postconviction notice must be informed and may participate. The court cannot enter a ruling for at least 60 days (unless all parties waive objections). 

If no objection is filed, the court may grant or deny the petition without a hearing. If objections are filed, a hearing may be scheduled. 

5. Court Decision & Sealing Order

If granted:

• The court issues an order sealing your case records
• The clerk must notify DPS, law enforcement, prosecutors, and relevant agencies to mark those records as sealed
• The sealed records are removed from public access and background checks, but still accessible under limited exceptions 

If denied:

• You can reapply after three years
• You may consider appeal if timeliness or procedural issues exist 

What Happens After Sealing?

Once your records are sealed:

• You may legally state that you have never been arrested, charged, or convicted of that offense in most employment, housing, and financial aid contexts 
• Some exceptions remain—for example, when applying to law enforcement, handling vulnerable populations, financial roles, or other statutorily defined roles—sealed records may still be disclosed. 
• Sealed records can still be used in criminal prosecutions as prior convictions or for sentencing enhancements under limited rules. 

Tips and Best Practices

• File separately for each court/case number. If you have multiple convictions in different jurisdictions, each must be petitioned independently. 
• Include detailed information. Incomplete or vague petitions are more likely to be dismissed. Provide all case numbers, agency names, dates, and disposition documents. 
• Monitor the statute changes. Arizona’s law is relatively new and evolving (e.g. SB 1639 in 2024). Future amendments could change eligibility or process details. 
• Seek legal help when needed. Complex cases or contested petitions benefit from attorney assistance.
• Be aware of published materials. Information distributed (news articles, prior reports) prior to sealing may remain accessible even after your record is sealed. 

Conclusion

 

Arizona’s adoption of A.R.S. 13‑911 in 2023 marked a significant shift toward giving individuals with past criminal records a second chance. While sealing is not identical to full expungement, it offers powerful relief by restricting public access to case records for arrests, dismissals, and many convictions - provided eligibility criteria are met, waiting periods have passed, and certain serious offenses are excluded.

If you’re considering sealing your record in Arizona, begin by reviewing your case history, confirming eligibility, and filing a petition in the correct court. Proceed carefully, supplement your petition with supporting evidence, and understand your rights and limitations under the statute.

For complex cases or to ensure accuracy, consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney licensed in Arizona, like Doran Justice. Sealing your record may not guarantee every door will open, but it can significantly improve your opportunities and help you move forward.