Issue 2: Updates for Rights Restoration
What’s HB2119 and how does it affect me?
In Arizona, Rights Restoration has always been complicated.
But a policy change (HB2119) that went into effect in 2022 begins to remove some of the time barriers from the process.
Some key changes that came with this bill are:
Removes 2 year waiting period; previously people with a conviction history needed to wait two years after absolute discharge or after completion of probation to start the petition process.
If eligible for automatic restoration (only have 1 felony conviction), the court will notify the person of their automatic restoration after their absolute discharge/release from probation. An order will also include an explanation of the civil rights that will be restored.
A certificate of final discharge will no longer be needed to be submitted with your petition.
While this is the policy, unfortunately, county clerks’ offices have still not yet made changes to many of their petitions and may still require the submittal of a certificate of discharge. If you need help requesting your certificate of discharge from ADOC click HERE.
The probation department or Arizona Department of Corrections will supply a copy of the judgment and sentencing order that explains rights restored or explains when you can apply to have your rights restored.
If you have a conviction in another state and your rights were lost or suspended you can petition in the county where you reside for restoration.
If you need help with submitting or completing a petition for cases outside of Arizona click HERE to request free service support.
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