How to apply to be appointed personal representative of a deceased relative’s estate in Arizona

Short answer: In Arizona you usually petition the Superior Court in the county where the decedent lived, file the original will (if any) and a petition for probate, give notice to heirs and creditors, and — if the court approves — receive official letters that authorize you to act as the personal representative. This article explains the typical steps, what documents you’ll need, how appointment priority typically works, common duties after appointment, and where to find Arizona statutes and court forms.

Detailed answer: How appointment works in Arizona

This overview assumes no unusual complications. It is general information only and not legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult an Arizona attorney.

1. Decide whether probate is needed

Not every estate must go through formal probate. Whether probate is required depends on how much property is solely in the decedent’s name, the types of assets, whether beneficiaries can get property by beneficiary designation, and whether the estate meets small‑estate procedures. Check the Superior Court clerk’s probate information for the county where the decedent lived to confirm filing requirements.

2. Who has priority for appointment?

If the decedent left a will that names a personal representative (sometimes called an executor or executrix), the court generally gives preference to that nominated person unless they are disqualified or the court finds cause to refuse. If there is no will, Arizona law sets a priority order so the court appoints the highest‑priority person who is willing and qualified (commonly a spouse, adult child, parent, or other close relative). The court may refuse an appointment if the person is a minor, incapacitated, or otherwise legally disqualified.

3. Where to file

File a petition for probate in the Superior Court in the county where the decedent was domiciled (their permanent home). Most counties provide probate intake/clerks and step‑by‑step checklists and forms.

4. Typical documents to file with the petition

Original will (if any) and any codicils
Certified copy of the death certificate (or the original death certificate if the clerk accepts it)
Petition for probate or petition for appointment of personal representative (court form)
Names and addresses of heirs and beneficiaries
Estimated inventory or statement of the estate’s assets and their approximate value
Proposed order for appointment and proposed letters (some courts provide templates)

5. Notice and hearing

After you file the petition, the court requires notice to heirs, beneficiaries, and certain other parties. The court may also require notice to creditors and may require a published notice for unknown creditors. If no one contests the appointment, some courts appoint a personal representative after a short waiting period or at a scheduled hearing. If someone objects, the court will schedule a contested hearing.

6. Bond and qualification

The court may require a bond (insurance that protects the estate against misconduct). Arizona courts often waive a bond if the will waives it or if the court approves a waiver. You must take an oath and may need to file an acceptance of appointment. When the court approves your appointment, it issues formal Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, which prove your authority to act for the estate.

7. Duties after appointment

As personal representative you typically must:

Collect and secure estate property
Inventory and, if required, appraise estate assets and file inventories with the court
Provide notice to creditors and evaluate claims
Pay valid debts, taxes, and funeral expenses from estate funds
File required tax returns (state and federal)
Distribute remaining assets to heirs or beneficiaries in accordance with the will or Arizona intestacy law
File a final accounting when required by the court and petition for discharge once duties are complete

8. What if multiple people want the job or someone objects?

If two or more people claim priority or someone objects to your appointment, the court decides based on statutory priority, suitability, and conflicts of interest. Contested matters may require hearings, evidence, and possibly a lawyer for representation.

9. Where to find Arizona statutes and official forms

Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 14 (Trusts, Estates and Protective Proceedings): https://www.azleg.gov/arsDetail/?title=14
Arizona Judicial Branch — probate information and local court links (forms and clerk contacts): https://www.azcourts.gov/clerkservices/Probate
Check your county Superior Court website for county‑specific probate forms, filing fees, hearing schedules, and local rules.

Helpful hints

Gather the original will before you file. Courts prefer the original document if one exists.
Get multiple certified copies of the death certificate — banks and agencies often require them.
Contact the local Superior Court clerk before filing. Many counties offer step‑by‑step packets and fillable forms.
If you were named in the will, bring proof of identity and any documentation the court requires to show you can serve.
Keep careful records and a separate estate bank account for receipts and disbursements once you are appointed.
If the estate is small, ask the clerk about simplified or small‑estate procedures that avoid full probate.
Consider hiring a probate attorney if the estate has disputes, complex assets (business interests, real property in other states), substantial taxes, or unclear creditor issues.
Be aware that acting without court appointment (taking control of assets) can expose you to personal liability. Wait for formal letters of appointment before managing estate property.

Disclaimer: This is general information about Arizona probate procedures and is not legal advice. I am not a lawyer. Laws change and individual situations differ. For advice specific to your situation, contact a licensed Arizona attorney or the Superior Court clerk in the county where the decedent lived.