Young people in Maricopa County who have juvenile records may qualify now to have them removed. A Phoenix event for youth to start the destruction process is on Nov. 4.
Having a criminal record before you turn 18 years old can be a barrier to personal growth and professional opportunities.
Twice a year, Project Restore: My Records, My Rights allows a judge to review and potentially delete juvenile records. Judges will be at the Durango Juvenile Court Center to issue rulings from 9 a.m. to noon. Youth will need to apply with the court after to have their rights restored.
Arizona Superior Court Judge Lori Bustamante explains.
“There are so many juveniles who become very productive, amazing adults in our society. And they shouldn’t be prohibited from continuing along that path of being successful as an adult, as a result of a mistake they made as a child,” Bustamante said.
Young people who qualify can file an electronic application any time or a paper application to the court. You can see your eligibility status here.
