Are Juvenile Records Sealed in AZ?
Discussion of Are Juvenile Records Sealed in AZ?
In Arizona, juvenile records are generally protected from public disclosure, as stated in § 8-208(G). However, there are exceptions to this rule. Juvenile records may be accessible if the individual was adjudicated as an adult, accused of a felony, or charged with specific misdemeanors, such as domestic violence, custodial interference, sexual offenses, or driving under the influence. It is crucial for those with juvenile records to understand the limitations and protections provided by Arizona law, as it may affect their future opportunities and privacy.
Juvenile records can have a significant impact on a person’s life, affecting their education, employment, and future opportunities. Many people wonder whether juvenile records are sealed in Arizona, allowing them to move forward without the burden of a criminal history. In this blog, we will discuss how juvenile records are handled in Arizona, the process of sealing records, and the importance of consulting with a Scottsdale juvenile assault lawyer if your child is facing criminal charges. Does Your Juvenile Record Go Away at 18 in Arizona?
How are Juvenile Records Handled in Arizona?
In Arizona, juvenile records are generally not public records. However, they are not automatically sealed either. Instead, they are considered confidential and can be accessed by certain individuals and entities, including:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Courts and judges
- The Department of Child Safety
- The juvenile and their parents or guardians
Although not publicly available, juvenile records can still impact a person’s life, as they may be considered during background checks or future legal proceedings. More information about the confidentiality of juvenile records can be found on the Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections website.
How to Seal Juvenile Records in Arizona
Arizona does offer a process for sealing juvenile records. This process is called “set aside” and involves petitioning the court to have the juvenile’s adjudication set aside and the records sealed. To be eligible, the person must meet the following criteria:
- They have successfully completed all court-ordered terms, including probation and restitution.
- They have no pending charges or subsequent adjudications.
- A sufficient amount of time has passed since the completion of their sentence, as determined by the court.
The Arizona Courts website provides more information on the set aside process and the required forms. If the court approves the petition, the juvenile’s records will be sealed, and the adjudication will be set aside. This means that the person can legally deny the existence of the record when asked about it during background checks, job interviews, or other situations. Can Minors be Prosecuted as Adults in Arizona?
The Importance of a Scottsdale Juvenile Assault Lawyer
If your child is facing criminal charges or you are considering petitioning to have their juvenile records sealed, it is crucial to consult with an experienced Scottsdale juvenile assault lawyer. A skilled attorney can help you understand your options, guide you through the legal process, and advocate for the best possible outcome for your child’s case.
While juvenile records are not public records in Arizona, they are not automatically sealed. To have them sealed, a person must go through the set aside process, which requires meeting specific eligibility criteria. If your child is facing criminal charges or you wish to seal their juvenile records, consult with a Scottsdale juvenile assault lawyer to protect their rights and future. For more information, contact Chelle Law today.
Does Arizona expunge juvenile records?
In Arizona, juvenile records can be destroyed under specific circumstances, as outlined in Arizona Revised Statutes Section 8-349. To be eligible for this process, the individual must meet the following criteria: they must be at least 18 years old, their conviction cannot be a felony or an offense listed in Section 13-501, and there should be no pending criminal charges against them. If all of these requirements are met, the individual can petition the court to have their juvenile records destroyed, thus providing them with an opportunity for a fresh start without the burden of a juvenile record.
What age is considered juvenile in Arizona?
In Arizona, a juvenile is defined as an individual aged between 10 and 17 years old. The state’s juvenile justice system is designed to handle criminal cases involving individuals within this age range. Once an individual turns 18, they are considered an adult and will be subject to the adult criminal justice system for any offenses committed. Arizona’s juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation and education, with an emphasis on addressing the root causes of delinquency and promoting positive future outcomes for the young person involved.
