With a new state legislature in place, Arizona has new opportunities for criminal justice reform, while potential challenges loom in the distance.
For the last few years, criminal justice reform has been stalled in the state of Arizona. Due to unfriendly committee chairmen and lacking support from the governor, effective change hasn’t been made recently. Fortunately, with new leadership and a new criminal justice reform committee, bills with great potential could see their way to Governor Ducey’s desk.
According to this article: “Arizona’s 1993 “truth-in-sentencing” law requires prison inmates to serve at least 85% of their sentences. Inmates can receive one day of “earned release credits” for every six days they serve if they complete substance abuse or other self-improvement programs. “
Along with the “truth-in-sentencing” law, another key target for reform advocates is the use of Hannah priors. This practice allows prosecutors to charge defendants who are facing multiple charges from a single incident as repeat offenders. Hopefully, with new leadership and renewed efforts from both parties, real change can be made in the great state of Arizona.
If you or a loved one has been arrested or incarcerated and needs help, call us toll-free at 833-854-8181, or visit one of our offices out of Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, or Tempe, AZ.
More information on Rideout Law can be found at: https://www.rideoutlaw.org
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