If you have a criminal record in Arizona, one of the most common and important questions is: who can actually see it?

The answer isn’t always straightforward. It depends on what action you’ve taken, whether your case was set aside or sealed, and who is doing the background check.
This guide breaks it down in simple terms so you know what to expect and how to protect your future.
Who Has Access to Criminal Records in Arizona?
In general, criminal records in Arizona are public record unless action is taken to limit access. That means the following groups may be…
Continue Reading Who Can See Your Criminal Record in Arizona? (Set Aside vs. Seal Explained)

Undercover Officers and Reckless Driving Charges

If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, racing, or criminal speeding in Arizona especially after interacting with what looked like another “regular driver”, your first reaction might be:
“That’s entrapment.”
We hear that all the time.
But in most cases, it’s not entrapment under Arizona law.
Let’s break down why.
Undercover Officers on Arizona Roads
Law enforcement agencies in Arizona frequently use undercover vehicles in traffic enforcement operations. These vehicles often include high-performance models like:

• Ford Mustangs
• Chevrolet Camaros
• Dodge Chargers
• Other sport-styled vehicles

To the average driver, they look like another car on…
Continue Reading Is It Entrapment? Undercover Officers and Reckless Driving Charges (ARS 28-693) in Arizona

Traffic stops in Arizona often start for minor reasons like speeding, rolling a stop sign, or a broken taillight. But if law enforcement discovers alcohol in your vehicle, that routine stop can quickly escalate. Understanding Arizona’s open container laws can help you avoid additional charges and protect your rights.

What Is an Open Container Under Arizona Law?
An open container generally refers to any bottle, can, or other receptacle containing alcohol that has been opened, had the seal broken, or has had some of its contents removed.
Common examples include:

• An open beer can or bottle
• A wine bottle with

…
Continue Reading Arizona Open Container Laws Explained: What Every Driver Should Know

If you or someone you love has been charged with a DUI in Arizona, understanding ignition interlock requirements is critical.

Over the last few years, Arizona has made significant changes to its DUI interlock laws, and many people are still relying on outdated information.
At R&R Law Group, we frequently get questions like:

• Do I need an ignition interlock for a drug DUI?
• What happens if I refuse a breath test?
• Can I get credit for the time I already had an interlock installed?

Below is a clear breakdown of how Arizona DUI interlock laws currently work and why these…
Continue Reading Arizona DUI Interlock Laws Have Changed: What You Need to Know

Prostitution is a topic that generates a lot of questions in Arizona, especially as conversations around human trafficking and law enforcement continue nationwide. One of the most common questions we hear is simple: Is prostitution legal in Arizona?
The short answer is no. Prostitution is illegal in Arizona, and the consequences can be far more serious than many people expect.

Is Prostitution Legal in Arizona?
Under Arizona law, prostitution includes offering, agreeing to engage in, or engaging in sexual conduct in exchange for money or something of value. This applies whether the conduct actually occurs or not. Simply agreeing or…
Continue Reading What Happens If You’re Charged With Prostitution in Arizona?

The holidays are a time for celebration, travel, and gathering with friends and family — but they also bring an increase in DUI enforcement across Arizona. Understanding your rights and what typically happens during a DUI investigation can help reduce confusion, fear, and misunderstandings during roadside encounters.
This public service announcement explains the difference between detention and arrest, why police may transport someone to a station before deciding on formal charges, and what rights apply at each stage.
1. There Are Two Different Stages in a DUI Stop
During a typical DUI investigation in Arizona, there are two main phases:…
Continue Reading Holiday Season PSA: What to Expect if You’re Stopped for a DUI Investigation in Arizona

Morning After DUIs
Most people think DUI charges only happen when someone is actively out drinking and driving late at night.

A surprising number of Arizona DUI arrests happen the morning after, when someone wakes up, feels “okay,” gets behind the wheel, and then suddenly finds themselves in handcuffs.
At the R&R Law Group, we call these cases “hang-arounds.” Why? Because they’re not traditional hangovers. The issue isn’t that you feel hungover, it’s that alcohol is still hanging around in your system from the night before.
Why Morning-After DUIs Happen?
We frequently talk to clients who tell us a similar…
Continue Reading Morning-After DUIs: What “Hang Around” Charges really mean in Arizona

Understanding the Harsh Reality of the Criminal Justice System
One of the more difficult questions we receive at R&R Law Group is: “Why do innocent people take plea deals?”

It’s a heartbreaking question and one that sheds light on some of the toughest realities of our criminal justice system. While it might seem unthinkable that someone would plead guilty to something they didn’t do, the truth is that this happens far more often than most people realize.
The Pressure of Harsh Legal Penalties
In Arizona, criminal penalties can be severe especially for felony charges. Mandatory sentencing laws mean that if…
Continue Reading Why Do Innocent People Take Plea Deals?

…
Continue Reading How Is A DUI Defined In Arizona?

If you’ve been charged with reckless driving in Arizona, you may be wondering how serious the charge really is and whether it could even be considered a felony.

Let’s break it down.
Reckless Driving as a Misdemeanor
Reckless driving in Arizona is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor. To put that into perspective:

• Class 1 misdemeanors (the most serious) include charges like DUI.
• Class 2 misdemeanors are mid-level, which is where reckless driving falls.
• Class 3 misdemeanors are the least serious.

So reckless driving sits in the middle tier of misdemeanor offenses.
Can It Become More Serious?
Reckless driving itself…
Continue Reading Can Reckless Driving Be a Felony in Arizona?

The Real-World Impact of a DUI in Arizona (Beyond Just the Money)
Getting charged with a DUI in Arizona affects far more than your wallet—it can alter the course of your life.
A DUI conviction can:
Damage your reputation – A criminal record is public and can affect your standing in your community.
Jeopardize your employment – Some employers conduct background checks, and a DUI can limit job opportunities—especially in fields requiring driving, professional licensing, or a clean record.
Create ongoing stress and uncertainty – Navigating the court process, MVD requirements, and legal obligations can be overwhelming and mentally exhausting.
Continue Reading What is the cost of a DUI conviction in Arizona?

Missing a Court Date in Arizona Can Have Serious Consequences.

At R&R Law Group, we often hear the question: “What happens if I don’t show up to court?” The answer depends on your situation, but in most cases, failing to appear can lead to a warrant for your arrest and additional penalties. Here’s what you need to know.

When You Have an Attorney
If you’ve hired an attorney, many times they can appear in court on your behalf, especially for misdemeanor cases. Your lawyer can request a continuance, negotiate with the prosecutor, or handle routine hearings without requiring your presence.
Continue Reading What Happens if You Miss a Court Date in Arizona?

At R&R Law Group, one of the most common questions we hear is: Are Arizona DUI laws too harsh?
The short answer? Yes, they are strict.
Arizona is known for having some of the toughest DUI penalties in the country, with mandatory minimum jail sentences and steep fines, even for first-time offenders. While these laws are designed to deter dangerous behavior, many believe they don’t leave enough room for discretion or rehabilitation.

Why Arizona DUI Laws Feel Harsh
Unlike some states that offer diversion programs for first-time DUI offenders, Arizona does not. That means even someone with no criminal history…
Continue Reading Are DUI Laws Too Harsh in Arizona?