How Long Does It Take to Seal Your Old Criminal Case in Arizona?
Understanding the Wait Times for Different Courts
Have you ever wondered how long it takes for a judge to decide on sealing your old criminal case? Many people ask this question, and the answer depends on where you file your request. Let’s look at the different courts and their typical wait times.
Maricopa County Superior Court: The Longest Wait
If you file your request in Maricopa County Superior Court, get ready to wait. Since January 1, 2023, this court has received many requests to seal old cases. Because of this, it now takes over three months to get an answer.
The court had to make big changes to handle all these requests. They even created a special group of judges just to work on these cases.
City Courts: A Bit Faster
City courts work differently than the county court. These include courts in places like:
- Scottsdale City Court
- Phoenix Municipal Court
- Mesa Municipal Court
In these courts, you can expect to wait about 60 days for an answer after you file your motion.
Justice Courts: Similar to City Courts
Justice courts used to be quicker last year (2023). But now, they take about the same time as city courts. You’ll probably wait around 60 days for a decision here too. Examples of Arizona Justice Courts are:
- San Tan Justice Court
- North Mesa Justice Court
- Desert Ridge Justice Court
Courts Outside of Phoenix: The Fastest Option
If your case is outside of Phoenix, you might get an answer much faster. This includes places like:
- Navajo County
- Pima County
- Cochise City Court
In these areas, you might hear back in as little as two weeks! That’s much quicker than the other courts in and around Maricopa County.
The one downside is that sometimes smaller courts around the state don’t have the infrastructure to handle the new Motions to Seal criminal convictions.
The Good News and the Bad News
There’s good news and bad news about sealing old criminal cases in Arizona.
The good news is that many people in Arizona are using this new law. It’s helping a lot of people who want to move on from their past mistakes.
The bad news is that because so many people are seeking this tremendous second chance opportunity, the courts are very busy.
This is why it’s taking longer to get answers in some places.
What This Means for You
If you’re thinking about filing a motion to seal your old criminal case, remember:
- Where you file your request matters.
- You might have to wait a while for an answer.
- Courts outside of Phoenix might be faster.
No matter how long it takes, sealing your old case can be a big help. It can make it easier to get a job, find a place to live, or just move on with your life.
If you have questions about sealing your case, it’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer who knows about this process.
Remember, patience is key. Even if it takes a few months, sealing your old case could make a big difference in your future!
Please contact me at derronw@msn.com if you have any questions.
Derron Woodfork