By Your Phoenix Attorney • 2026-05-23
Set-Aside vs. Expungement in Arizona: What's the Difference?
A set aside — under ARS §13-905 is the oldest Arizona post-conviction relief tool. Record sealing under §13-911 (effective 2023) is the newest. They are not the same thing — and combining them is often the best move.
ARS §13-905 — set-aside
Dismisses the charge, sets aside the conviction, and releases the petitioner from penalties. The record remains visible but annotated.
ARS §13-911 — record sealing
Seals all records of arrest, charge, and conviction from public view. You may state under oath that the conviction does not exist (with limited exceptions).
Prop 207 — true marijuana expungement
The only currently available true expungement in Arizona, limited to qualifying marijuana convictions.
Which should I file?
For most non-marijuana convictions, combining §13-905 set-aside with §13-911 sealing is the most powerful clean-up available. We file both together when eligible.
Find out what you qualify for
See our set-aside & sealing page.
Need help with this issue?
Call Your Phoenix Attorney at 623-335-4014 for a free consultation, or use the contact form.