The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current Arizona statutes regarding the filing of forged or groundless documents related to real property. Specifically, it would elevate the penalty for knowingly filing such documents with the county recorder from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 4 felony. This change aims to strengthen the legal repercussions for individuals who attempt to assert false claims to real property, thereby enhancing protections for property owners.

Additionally, the bill would make several technical adjustments to the existing language, including clarifying the liability amounts for damages caused by the recording of invalid documents. It would specify that individuals found liable must pay at least $5,000 or treble the actual damages, whichever is greater, and would also update references to the parties involved in legal actions. Overall, these updates are intended to provide clearer legal standards and increase accountability for fraudulent property claims.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 33-420
Senate Engrossed Version: 33-420