Probate Administration in Arizona
Simplified Probate: Your Guide Through Arizona Estate Administration.
It Might Be Your First Time Navigating Probate—But It’s All We Do.
We do not handle other types of cases. At Rahnema Law, we’ve helped hundreds of Arizona families through the probate process. We’ll make it simple, clear, and fast—so you don’t have to do it alone.
What Is
Probate Administration?
At Rahnema Law, we handle every step of the probate process, including:
- Validating the will: Officially confirming the deceased's last wishes with the court.
- Identifying assets: Locating and valuing all property owned by the estate.
- Paying debts and taxes: Managing all financial obligations of the estate.
- Distributing assets: Ensuring remaining property is correctly distributed to heirs and beneficiaries.
We simplify this complex process, guiding you from start to finish so you can focus on healing.
Understanding Probate
Common Questions
1. Do I Need Probate If There’s a Will?
Yes, even with a valid will, probate may still be needed to transfer assets legally. The Will has no power unless a Personal Representative is appointed.
2. How Fast Can I Get Appointed by the Court?
Depending on your situation, it might be as quick as 1 week.
3. When Can I sell Assets?
The day you are appointed and have your Letters.
3. Do I Need to Come to Arizona?
Not for the probate process, but maybe- to obtain personal property in a home.
For a full list of FAQs, visit our dedicated Probate FAQ page.
Learn Probate Administration
6 Common Myths
About Arizona Probate
Myth #1: Having a Will Avoids Probate
The Truth: A will actually requires probate—it doesn’t avoid it. Think of a will as instructions for the court on how to distribute your assets. To truly bypass probate, you need trusts, beneficiary designations, or payable-on-death accounts.
Myth #2: Probate Always Takes Years and Costs a Fortune
The Truth: Arizona probate is typically quick (2-3 months) and inexpensive (under $5,000 for most cases). Unlike California or Midwest states, Arizona has streamlined procedures. Most informal probates can be completed efficiently with experienced guidance.
Myth #3: Small Estates Don't Need Probate
The Truth: Size doesn’t automatically eliminate probate requirements. Arizona’s 2025 small estate limits are $200,000 for personal property and $300,000 for real estate. Even qualifying estates need proper legal documentation—many families miss these opportunities because they don’t know the current rules.
Myth #4: The State Takes Everything If You Die Without a Will
The Truth: Arizona has clear intestate succession laws distributing assets to family members—not the state. Surviving spouse comes first, then other relatives. The state only inherits if no eligible family exists, which is extremely rare.
Myth #5: Being Named in Someone's Will Makes You Automatically the Personal Representative
The Truth: You must still be officially appointed by the probate court before acting on behalf of the estate. Until you have legal authority, you can’t collect assets, pay debts, or distribute property. This requires court filings and formal legal responsibilities.
Myth #6: Probate Is Always Contentious and Causes Family Fights
The Truth: Most Arizona probate cases proceed smoothly with well-drafted wills. Informal probate has minimal court supervision when wills aren’t challenged. Family disputes typically arise from poor communication or unclear estate planning—not from probate itself.
Our Step-by-Step Approach to
Probate Administration
Get the Help You Deserve
Let Rahnema Law handle the legal complexities of probate administration so you can focus on what truly matters—honoring your loved one’s legacy.