If you’ve been convicted of a crime in Arizona, your future can be affected by your criminal record. Having a criminal record can affect your ability to gain employment, remove your voting rights, and cause you to lose some of your rights and privileges as a U.S. citizen. Although Arizona doesn’t have expungement laws, it does allow those with a criminal record to get their “convictions set aside.” Our Phoenix criminal defense attorneys explain who is eligible to get their convictions set aside in Arizona.
What Crimes Can’t Be Set Aside in Arizona?
Having your convictions “set aside” doesn’t mean that it will remove your criminal record’s charge or conviction. However, anyone who checks your criminal record will see that the court has “set aside” your criminal record. For example, this will tell potential employers that the court vacated the conviction and set aside all charges.
Since most convictions can be “set aside” in Arizona, below we have put together the non-eligible crimes:
- Crimes involving the use of a deadly weapon
- Crimes that require you to register as a sex offender
- Crimes with victims under the age of 15
- Serious driving offenses (such as vehicular manslaughter)
Benefits of Setting Aside Convictions
Although a “set aside” won’t erase your conviction from your criminal record, it can reduce the chances of your criminal record affecting your employment opportunities. Getting your criminal record set aside can also increase your chances of restoring some rights and privileges, such as possessing a firearm, voting, and serving as a jury.
Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorneys
Getting your convictions “set aside” can be complicated, so it is vital to seek strong legal counsel. Our team at Suzuki Law Offices, L.L.C. can help you get your criminal record set aside. If you’re currently facing criminal charges, we can create a strong defense on your behalf to help you get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
Contact our Phoenix criminal defense lawyers today at (602) 842-6762 to schedule a consultation!