Probate in Arizona
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Arizona allows independent administration; executors can settle estates largely outside court with proper will language.
How Arizona treats Probate
Arizona probate law strongly favors independent administration when the will grants this authority, letting executors distribute assets without court approval at each step. The state adopted the Uniform Probate Code and permits informal probate when all heirs consent. Estates under $75,000 may qualify for expedited succession procedures that bypass traditional probate entirely. Arizona courts generally stay out of estate administration unless disputes arise or the will lacks independent administration language.
The general definition of Probate
The court process of validating a will and distributing a deceased person's estate.
When someone dies, probate is the legal process where a court oversees the handling of their will and property. The court confirms the will is valid, identifies heirs and creditors, pays debts and taxes, and distributes what's left to the beneficiaries named in the will. It can take months or years and involves court fees and attorney costs.
Read the full Probate entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.