Detailed answer — step-by-step under Arizona law

Below is a practical roadmap for an out-of-state sibling who needs to open probate in Arizona. This is an explanation of common Arizona probate processes and links to official sources. It is not legal advice.

1. Confirm whether probate is necessary

Probate usually matters only for assets owned solely in the decedent’s name (bank accounts, real property, brokerage accounts, etc.). Assets that pass by beneficiary designation, joint ownership with rights of survivorship, or by trust typically avoid probate. Check each account and deed to determine if probate is required.

2. Identify the proper court and county

In Arizona, probate cases are handled by the Superior Court in the county where the decedent was domiciled when they died. Start at the Arizona Courts probate resource for county contact info and local procedures: Arizona Courts — Probate (Self-Help). You can also locate the correct Superior Court at: Find a Court — Arizona Courts.

3. Decide between informal and formal probate

Arizona allows informal probate (usually quicker and handled by the clerk where no disputes exist) and formal probate (used when there are contests or complex issues). If you expect no disputes and the will is straightforward, informal probate is commonly used. For contested or complex estates, a formal proceeding may be necessary.

4. Gather required documents

• Original will (if one exists).
• Certified copy of the death certificate.
• Information about heirs and beneficiaries (names and addresses).
• Inventory of assets believed to be subject to probate (accounts, real estate, personal property).

5. File the probate petition in Arizona

File a petition to open probate with the Superior Court in the proper county. The petition asks the court to admit a will (if any) and appoint a personal representative (PR) or executor. The court clerk can provide required forms and filing instructions. See Arizona Revised Statutes governing probate (Title 14) for the governing law: Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 14 — Trusts, Estates and Protective Proceedings.

6. Out-of-state personal representatives — residency and practical issues

Arizona law allows nonresident individuals to serve as a personal representative. Practically, however, consider the following:

• The court needs a reliable address and contact information for service of notices.
• If litigation or creditor claims are likely, a local co-representative or an Arizona attorney can simplify service, court appearances, and routine interactions with local institutions.
• Many out-of-state PRs arrange for a local attorney to appear for hearings, file documents electronically, and accept official mail or notices.

7. Notice to heirs and creditors

After the court appoints a personal representative, Arizona procedure requires notice to heirs, beneficiaries, and known creditors and may require publication for unknown creditors. These notice rules protect creditors and give interested persons the chance to object. Check the court clerk’s instructions and Title 14 of the Arizona Revised Statutes for specific notice procedures: ARS Title 14.

8. Bond, letters, and administration

The court will issue letters testamentary or letters of administration to the appointed PR. The court may require a bond to protect the estate, although a will can sometimes waive bond or the court can order a reduced bond. If the PR is out-of-state, the court still generally issues letters once conditions (like bond) are satisfied.

9. Practical steps you can take remotely

1. Contact the probate clerk in the decedent’s county to request filing requirements, local forms, and fee schedules.
2. Collect and send the original will and certified death certificate to the county court or your Arizona attorney as instructed.
3. Retain an Arizona probate attorney or appoint a local co-representative if you are unable to manage local tasks or attend hearings in person.
4. Set up reliable mail handling for court orders and notices (PO Box or attorney’s office).
5. Be prepared to provide an acceptance of appointment and to sign documents (many courts will accept filings through counsel or allow remote/notarized signatures where permitted).

10. When to get local legal help

If the estate includes real estate, substantial assets, disputes, or creditor claims, hire a probate attorney licensed in Arizona. An attorney can file petitions, handle creditor matters, prepare inventories, address tax issues, and represent you at hearings.

Official resources

• Arizona Courts — Probate (Self-Help): https://www.azcourts.gov/self-help/wills-probate-and-estates/Probate
• Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 14 — Trusts, Estates and Protective Proceedings: https://www.azleg.gov/arsDetail/?title=14
• Find a Superior Court in Arizona: https://www.azcourts.gov/findacourt

Helpful Hints

• Start by calling the Superior Court clerk in the county where the decedent lived — clerks often give plain-language checklists and local forms.
• Gather the original will and multiple certified death certificates early; many institutions require originals or certified copies.
• List assets with documentation (bank statements, deed, account numbers) so the court and institutions can identify probate assets quickly.
• If you cannot travel, hire an Arizona probate attorney to file papers, appear at hearings, and protect the estate’s interests.
• Keep careful records of estate transactions and communications — the PR must account for receipts and disbursements.
• Ask whether a simple small-estate procedure applies before filing full probate; some small estates qualify for faster processes.
• Expect to publish notice for unknown creditors and to mail notices to heirs and known creditors as required by court rules.