When you are trying to turn the page on a new year, the last thing you want is an old mistake keeping you stuck in the past. Have you considered a set aside?

If you have a criminal conviction in Arizona, you might feel like you are permanently marked. You apply for a job, and the background check flags you. You apply for an apartment, and the property manager hesitates.

But here is the good news: A conviction does not have to be the final word.

While Arizona’s new Record Sealing law (A.R.S. § 13-911) is making headlines, many people don’t qualify yet because of the mandatory waiting periods (up to 10 years). That is where the Set Aside (A.R.S. § 13-905) comes in. It is often the fastest way to clean up your record and prove to the world that you are ready for a fresh start.

Here is how a Set Aside works and how Castillo Law can help you get one this year.

What is a “Set Aside”?

A “Set Aside” is a legal order from a judge that officially “sets aside” your judgment of guilt.

Think of it as the court acknowledging that you have paid your debt to society. If the judge grants your request:

1. They effectively set aside the judgment of guilt.
2. They relieve you of all penalties resulting from the conviction(s). 
3. Your record is updated to show that the conviction has been “Set Aside.”

Why Get a Set Aside Instead of Sealing?

This is the most common question we get. Sealing hides your record entirely, which is great—but you often have to wait years after your sentence ends to apply.

A Set Aside has no statutory waiting period.

As long as you have successfully completed your probation or sentence and paid your fines/restitution, you can often apply immediately.

If you finished probation last month and need a better job this month, a Set Aside is your best immediate option.

The “Golden Ticket”: Automatic Rights Restoration & The Certificate of Second Chance

In 2026, a Set Aside is more powerful than ever because it automatically restores civil rights including gun rights for most offenses. Additionally, it is more powerful because of the Certificate of Second Chance.

When we file for your Set Aside, we can also request this special certificate. If granted, it provides legal protection to employers and landlords who accept you.

• For Housing: It prevents landlords from being sued solely for renting to someone with a criminal history.
• For Jobs: It opens doors to occupational licenses (like contracting, nursing assistants, etc.) that are usually barred to people with convictions.

What Crimes Qualify?

Most misdemeanors and felonies in Arizona are eligible for a Set Aside.

Note: Dangerous offenses, offenses where the victim was under fifteen, or sexual registration required offenses/sexual motivation offenses are generally not eligible.

How We Can Help You in 2026

The courts don’t grant Set Asides automatically. You have to ask for them, and you have to prove you’ve changed.

For our “New Year, New Future” campaign, Castillo Law is offering a Free Eligibility Review.

• We check if you have finished your sentence.
• We verify if your specific charge is eligible under A.R.S. § 13-905.
• We handle the paperwork to ensure the judge sees the person you are today, not the mistake you made years ago.

Start Your Year with a Clean Slate

You have done the hard work of completing your sentence. Don’t let the paperwork hold you back from the life you’ve earned.

Check My Eligibility for Free

Or call Castillo Law at (480) 206-5204 to speak with our team.