Arizona Judicial Branch

Probate

Probate cases present a challenge to courts across the country. They require a high degree of oversight to protect and prevent mistreatment of protected individuals and their property. The term “Probate Court” is used generically to reference the court that hears not only estate probate and intestate matters but also a variety of other cases that traditionally involve filings in the areas of guardianship, conservatorship, elder fraud, and physical abuse.

	During the course of your service as a guardian, conservator, or personal representative, you will be required to file certain documents and reports with the court. Some of the documents and reports may be required by your court only, while other documents and reports are required by all courts in the state. Visit the Arizona Courts Locator for more information on reporting requirements for the Superior Court in the county in which you were appointed. See the Fee Waivers and Deferrals page if you are unable to pay the filing fees. Order and Acknowledgment Forms (Forms 1–4, 10): The court will enter an order directing the performance of your duties in your fiduciary role as a personal representative, guardian, or conservator. You are required to be guided by the order and comply with its provisions. Conservator Account Forms (Forms 5–9): Throughout the conservatorship, you will be required to file an annual account of the protected person's finances with the court. The Conservator Account Forms represent different stages of the conservatorship. Petition for Appointment of Guardianship and/or Conservatorship of an Adult. This page contains general information and instructions on how to file for a permanent appointment as a guardian and/or conservator for an adult. Petition to Restore Ward’s Right to Vote
	Arizona Rules of Probate Procedure Arizona Revised Statute, Title 14 – Trusts, Estates and Protective Proceedings Arizona Code of Judicial Administration (ACJA) ACJA § 3-301: Probate Court Standards ACJA § 3-302: Probate Court Forms (Forms 1–10) ACJA § 3-303: Professional Services: Statewide Fee Guidelines and Competitive Bids ACJA § 3-303(D): Use of the Fee Guidelines ACJA § 7-202: Fiduciaries
	Arizona Attorney General - Seniors Arizona Adult Protective Services (APS) AZLawHelp.org Center for Elders and the Courts – NCSC project LawForSeniors.org Maricopa County's Guardian Review Program A Guide for Preventing Elder Abuse, Assault, and Theft (courtesy of SeniorLiving.org)
	Training is required for individuals involved in probate matters, including non-licensed fiduciaries, judges, and attorneys serving as appointed counsel or guardians ad litem for a proposed adult ward or adult protected person. (Administrative Order No. 2012-62).
	The court is required to appoint a court investigator upon the filing of a petition for appointment of a guardian or conservator (See A.R.S. §§ 14-5303(C), 14-5407(B), and 36-540(G)).
	The Fiduciary Licensing Program is designed to help ensure Arizona's elderly, mentally incapacitated and other vulnerable citizens have licensed individuals or businesses managing their financial affairs, medical decisions and other vital matters.