Detailed Answer
Under Arizona law, a personal representative generally must provide interested persons with a copy of the estate accounting. Arizona Revised Statutes § 14-3902 requires the representative in formal administration to prepare, file and serve an account of all receipts, disbursements and distributions. After filing the account with the court, the personal representative must give notice and a copy to each interested person, including heirs, beneficiaries and creditors (A.R.S. § 14-3902).
Key points:
- Formal administration: The first account is due within nine months of appointment or as the court orders (A.R.S. § 14-3901).
- Notice and service: The statute requires service of the account and notice of hearing on all interested persons.
- Informal administration: No routine court-supervised account exists. However, any interested person may petition the court to compel an accounting under A.R.S. § 14-3902.
- Right to inspect: Interested persons have a statutory right to inspect and copy probate records, including accountings (A.R.S. § 14-3707).
- Enforcement: If the representative fails or refuses to provide an accounting, an interested person can file a motion to compel under the same statute (A.R.S. § 14-3902(C)).
Helpful Hints
- Review the court docket online or at the clerk’s office to find filed accountings.
- Send a written request to the personal representative for a copy of the account.
- Confirm you qualify as an “interested person” under Arizona law (heirs, beneficiaries, creditors).
- If you don’t receive a response within 30 days, consider consulting an attorney or petitioning the court to compel production.
- Keep copies of all correspondence and filed motions for your records.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.