AZ HB2369

Requires criminal conviction before judicial forfeiture proceedings can be initiated in most cases, with limited exception for abandoned property.

Establishes pretrial replevin hearings allowing defendants to challenge property seizures and seek return of property needed for legal representation before trial.

Shifts burden of proof by presuming seized property is exempt from forfeiture once an owner establishes ownership interest, requiring the state to prove forfeiture rather than defendant proving exemption.

Adds public disclosure requirements for forfeited property through searchable website maintained by Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, detailing seized items, case dispositions, and use of forfeiture proceeds.

Restricts federal transfers of seized property valued under $50,000 and prohibits partnerships with federal agencies designed to circumvent state criminal conviction requirements.