Arizona § 38-421 - Stealing, destroying, altering or secreting public record; classification
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 38-421 — Stealing, destroying, altering or secreting public record; classification, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38-421. Stealing, destroying, altering or secreting public record; classification
A. An officer having custody of any record, map or book, or of any paper or proceeding of any court, filed or deposited in any public office, or placed in his hands for any purpose, who steals, or knowingly and without lawful authority destroys, mutilates, defaces, alters, falsifies, removes or secretes the whole or any part thereof, or who permits any other person so to do, is guilty of a class 4 felony.
B. A person not an officer who is guilty of the conduct specified in subsection A of this section is guilty of a class 6 felony.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 38-421
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 38-421 cover?
Section 38-421 ("Stealing, destroying, altering or secreting public record; classification") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 38-421?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 38-421" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 38-421 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.