Can an Arizona Felon Get a US Passport?

If you are convicted of a felony crime in Arizona, your permanent criminal record can impact many aspects of your life and future. This can include the ability to get a US passport and travel outside of the country, depending on the nature of your conviction and the status of your criminal case. For the most part, having a felony on your record will not bar you from getting a US passport. However, there are some exceptions.

Felony Convictions and International Travel

Being convicted of a felony can impact several of your constitutional rights, including the right to vote in public elections and bear arms. Having a felony on your record could also get in the way of future employment opportunities and housing. These are standard consequences of felony convictions in Arizona. Whether or not a convicted felon can obtain a US passport and travel internationally, however, changes from case to case.

Factors that can impact a felon’s ability to get a US passport include:

• Type of felony: while most convicted felons are able to get US passports, certain types of felonies will lead to passport denials. These include serious drug offenses, such as international drug trafficking or the distribution of drugs. Treason is also a felony crime that could bar you from getting a passport or leaving the country.
• Status of the case: it is not possible to obtain a US passport if the criminal case against you is still underway. If a warrant is out for your arrest, charges are pending, you are currently awaiting trial, you are on probation or parole, or you are otherwise prohibited from traveling internationally, you will be denied a passport by the US government.
• Desired travel destination: even if you are able to obtain a US passport, this does not guarantee you the right to travel abroad freely. Many countries do not allow convicted felons to cross their borders, either for public safety or political reasons. You must do your research to find out if the country where you wish to travel welcomes people who have been convicted of felonies.

Although these are not felony crimes, having unpaid child support over $5,000 or unpaid federal taxes or loans can also get in the way of obtaining a US passport. If you had a valid passport prior to your criminal case, it may be confiscated by the courts to prevent you from fleeing the country to avoid felony charges. If this happens, you will not be able to apply for a new US passport until the completion of the criminal process and any related probation or parole terms.

For more information, read this guide here.

Why You Might Need a Lawyer to Get a Passport

First and foremost, it is essential to recognize that the US Department of State has the authority to deny passport applications based on various grounds, including criminal convictions. Felony convictions especially can have significant implications on your passport application. 

Attempting to obtain a passport with a felony conviction can be a daunting task. The application process is thorough and requires a detailed disclosure of your criminal record. Any discrepancies or omissions in the application can result in delays or even denial. This is where the expertise of a lawyer can come in handy.

What If I Am Denied a US Passport

If the Department of State decides to deny your passport application, it does not necessarily mean the end of the road. You have the right to appeal the decision in federal court.

The appeals process in federal court can be complex and time-consuming. It is strongly recommended that you seek the assistance of an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process and represent your interests effectively. An attorney can help you build a strong case, gather the necessary evidence, and present your arguments in a compelling manner.

Other Restrictions Felons Face Aside from Passport Issues

Here are some other common restrictions that felons may encounter:

• Voting Rights: Felons in Arizona lose their right to vote until their sentence is completed, including any probation or parole. However, it is important to note that once your sentence is completed, your voting rights are automatically restored. It is critical to familiarize yourself with the specific conditions surrounding the restoration of voting rights in order to exercise your right as a citizen.
• Firearm Possession: Convicted felons in Arizona are prohibited from possessing firearms. This includes not only handguns and rifles but also ammunition and other weapons. It is crucial to understand the implications of this restriction, as violating it can lead to serious criminal charges and potential imprisonment.
• Employment Opportunities: Felony convictions can significantly limit employment opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks and may disqualify candidates with criminal records. This can make it challenging for felons to secure stable employment and provide for themselves and their families. However, it is important to note that there are resources available to help felons navigate the job market and find employment opportunities suitable for their circumstances.
• Housing Assistance: Felons may face difficulties in securing housing due to their criminal record. Many housing providers, including public housing agencies, conduct background checks and may deny applications based on criminal history. This can make finding stable and affordable housing a significant challenge for felons. However, there may be alternative housing options and resources available to assist felons in finding suitable accommodation.

Driving Privileges: Depending on the nature of the felony conviction, felons may face restrictions on their driving privileges. For example, felony DUI convictions can result in license suspension or revocation. It is critical for felons to understand the specific requirements and restrictions related to their driving privileges to avoid further legal complications.

Felony Convictions and International Moves

If you only wish to exit the country for a vacation or a short visit overseas, a valid US passport will typically be enough to allow your entry. However, if you wish to move to a different country or stay for a longer period of time, you will need to obtain a visa. Unlike the process for obtaining a US passport, getting a visa requires a criminal background check.

With a felony conviction on your record, you could be barred from acquiring a visa in your desired country. There may also be restrictions in place on misdemeanor crimes, such as driving under the influence. One solution may be having your criminal record expunged. This means your felony conviction will be erased from the record. Expungement could restore your eligibility for a US passport and allow you to get a visa in another country.

For more information about record expungement or getting a passport as a convicted felon in Arizona contact a criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of John Phebus online for a free consultation.

FAQ:

How to Get a US Passport?

Obtaining a US passport can be a crucial step towards reclaiming your freedom and pursuing opportunities outside of the country. If you’re an Arizona resident with a felony conviction on your record, you may be wondering if it’s even possible for you to obtain a US passport. The good news is that in most cases, felons are eligible to apply for a passport once they have fulfilled certain requirements. Here are the steps to follow on your journey to obtaining a US passport:

Determine Your Eligibility

Before you start the passport application process, it’s important to determine whether you are eligible. In general, a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from getting a passport. However, if you are currently on parole or probation, or if you have a court order prohibiting you from leaving the country, you may need to seek permission from the court or your probation officer before applying for a passport.

Complete the Application

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, it’s time to fill out the passport application form. You can obtain this form online or at your local passport agency. Make sure to answer all the questions accurately and truthfully. When it comes to disclosing your criminal history, it’s important to be honest. Failure to disclose a felony conviction could result in the denial of your application.

Gather Supporting Documents

In addition to the application form, you will need to submit certain supporting documents to complete your passport application. These documents may include proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or state ID), proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate), and a passport photo that meets the specific requirements outlined by the US Department of State.

Submit Your Application

Once you have completed the application and gathered all the necessary documents, submit your application. You can either mail your application to the appropriate address or schedule an appointment to apply in person at a passport agency. If you choose to mail your application, make sure to use a traceable method and keep a copy of everything you send for your records.

Pay the Required Fees

There are fees associated with obtaining a US passport. These include an application fee, an execution fee (if applying in person), and any additional fees for expedited processing or other special services (such as extra passport pages). Make sure to check the current fee schedule and include the correct payment method with your application.

Wait for Processing

After submitting your application and paying the fees, the processing time for a US passport can vary. It is important to plan ahead and apply well in advance if you have any upcoming travel plans. Regular processing times can range from 4-8 weeks, but expedited processing options are available for an additional fee.

In conclusion, while a felony conviction may present certain challenges, it does not necessarily mean that you are permanently barred from obtaining a US passport. By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the application process with confidence and move one step closer to reclaiming your freedom to travel. If you have any concerns or questions about your specific circumstances, it is always advisable to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can provide guidance and advocate on your behalf.

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