Arizona, like many other states, offers individuals the opportunity to seal their criminal case records. Whether it’s called “sealing,” or “expungement,” of a conviction, the aim is the same: to provide individuals with a fresh start and to shield them from the potential negative consequences of a criminal record. Let’s delve into some of the advantages of sealing your criminal case record in Arizona.
1. Employment Opportunities
Having a criminal record can be a significant barrier to securing employment. Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record can result in automatic disqualification, regardless of your qualifications, work ethic or recent good conduct. By sealing your criminal record, you make it far less likely that potential employers will come across this information and automatically disqualify you for the position, thus increasing your chances of being hired.
2. Housing Advantages
Landlords and housing agencies also frequently conduct background checks. A criminal record can limit where you can rent or even block you from certain housing opportunities altogether. Sealed records enhance your prospects of being approved for rental applications or being eligible for housing assistance.
3. Educational Opportunities
Many educational institutions, especially higher education institutions, ask about criminal history during the admissions process. Sealed records ensure that your past doesn’t get in the way of your future educational pursuits, allowing you to further your studies without the burden of your past mistakes creating a barrier.
4. Restoration of Civil Rights
In Arizona, sealing a record can sometimes also accompany the restoration of civil rights, such as the right to vote, the right to serve on a jury, or the right to possess firearms (although this depends on the nature of the conviction and other specific factors). However, one needs to be aware that Setting Aside a conviction and restoring civil rights may need to precede sealing the criminal record.
5. Personal Peace of Mind
Beyond the tangible benefits, sealing a record offers emotional and psychological relief as well. Not being required to disclose past mistakes or face the judgment and stigma associated with a criminal record can significantly boost one’s confidence and self-esteem, shedding the association with the identity of “criminal” or “felon.”
6. Loans and Financial Aid
A criminal record can affect your ability to secure loans or financial aid for education. By sealing your record, you increase your chances of receiving the financial assistance you need.
7. Professional Licensing
Many professions require licensing or certification. Boards or agencies responsible for these licenses may deny them based on past criminal history. Sealing your record can help ensure your past doesn’t interfere with your professional aspirations. Relatedly, one can petition the Court for a Certificate of Second Chance which also opens up many other professional opportunities.
8. Avoiding Discrimination
Although discriminating based on criminal history is legally dubious, it’s no secret that those with criminal records face various forms of discrimination. Sealing your record reduces the chances of such prejudiced treatment.
Conclusion
While sealing a criminal case record in Arizona doesn’t entirely erase the conviction from government inquiry or make it as if it never happened, it does restrict its general visibility to the public. This can open numerous doors of opportunity that may have previously been shut and provide a sense of closure and a fresh start! If you believe you might be eligible, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney familiar with Arizona’s laws to guide you through the process and ensure the proper process is followed to maximize the benefits of sealing your record.