Opening Probate While some states allow up to six years to probate an estate, the state of Arizona will only accept probate cases that are opened within two years of the decedent's passing (ARS 14-3108).
That is accomplished by filing with the local Probate Court a pleading called an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative. Alternatively, in the case of an intestate decedent, the pleading is called an Application for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative.
Steps to Create a Will in Arizona Decide what property to include in your will. Decide who will inherit your property. Choose a personal representative to handle your estate. Choose a guardian for your children. Choose someone to manage children's property. Make your will. Sign your will in front of witnesses.
That is accomplished by filing with the local Probate Court a pleading called an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative. Alternatively, in the case of an intestate decedent, the pleading is called an Application for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative.
However, if there is no will or the will is contested by potential heirs or creditors, the process can become lengthy due to court hearings and legal challenges. On average, probate in Arizona takes between six months to a year for an uncontested estate.
An informal appointment or probate, or a formal testacy or appointment proceeding, may be commenced after the two-year deadline if no court proceeding concerning the administration or succession has occurred within the two-year period.
Case initiating documents and subsequent filings for probate case types must be filed in-person, by mail, or via a filing depository box. The ability to eFile probate case documents is currently not available for Maricopa County, but is expected in the near future.
A: No, a small estate affidavit can only be used if the person died without a valid will. Q: Is an attorney required to complete a small estate affidavit? A: No, an attorney is not required. However, Isaac Shutt recommends that people seek help from a probate attorney, particularly if you are unsure about the process.
Once signed and notarized, the affidavits must be filed with the probate court in the county where the property is physically located. A certified copy of the death certificate and a copy of the will, if any, must be attached to each affidavit, along with title documents for real estate and other large assets.