AZ SB1784

Individuals sentenced to more than 15 years for offenses committed when they were under 18 years old become eligible for a sentence reduction hearing after serving at least 15 years of their sentence.

The court must hold a hearing within 90 days of receiving a motion and appoint an attorney for the defendant; there is a presumption that the defendant will receive a sentence reduction unless the court finds they pose a threat to public safety.

Courts must consider mitigating factors including the defendant's age at offense, maturity and rehabilitation while incarcerated, history of abuse or trauma, completion of educational or vocational programs, and the diminished culpability of juveniles compared to adults.

If the motion is denied, defendants may refile after two years; if granted, the court must resentence immediately and may impose a term below the otherwise required minimum, but cannot impose natural life or indefinite imprisonment.

Defendants granted release are presumed eligible for community supervision, and courts may require completion of prerelease programming, substance abuse treatment, education, or reentry programs before release.