Premier Probate Attorneys in Mesa, AZ
We provide support and guidance to families during a difficult time of loss
Probate
What is Probate?
Probate in Arizona is a court-supervised process of validating wills, settling debts, and distributing assets after someone dies.
It applies if the deceased had a will or died without one (intestate).
Probate Litigation
What is Probate Litigation?
Probate litigation is the process of going to court to resolve will contests, inheritance disputes, and estate administration conflicts.
Our experienced probate lawyers protect your rights, maximize inheritance, and ensure fair asset distribution in court.
Trust Administration
What is Trust Administration?
Trust administration is the process of managing and distributing assets held within a trust.
Sometimes a trust administration begins after the trust creator, or grantor, has passed away.
Guardianship & Conservatorship
What’s the Difference?
Guardianship gives the legal responsibility over another’s personal affairs.
Conservatorship grants the legal authority to manage the financial affairs and property of another person.
Estate Planning
What is Estate Planning?
Estate planning involves more than just writing a will or trust.
It’s about creating a comprehensive strategy that addresses your financial, medical, and familial needs.
Business & LLC Services
Business Services Summary
Our business attorneys will provide your business with legal counsel to guide you on everything from business formation and contracts to regulatory compliance and intellectual property protection.
What Our Clients Say
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When my father in law passed away, last year, my husband and I had no idea where to start. To make things harder we live in Iowa, so getting things started … More was that much harder. We were given Copper Wren's information. I called and spoke with Carly. She gave me information on the probate process and then we had a consultation on Google Meet. We met in person once we were able to get to Mesa. The whole team made feel comfortable and we knew we had made the right choice. We were able to finish the rest of the process with phone calls and emails. When we did have questions, Carly was prompt with responding. Carly is very knowledgeable with the probate process. I would use Copper Wren for all my estate planning needs, if I lived in Arizona.
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EXPERIENCED, COMPETENT, PRINCIPLED, COURTEOUS.
My case should have been a straightforward administrative proceeding, but a bureaucratic quagmire threatened … More to make it a legal one as the deadline drew near. Carly Whiteside and Elizabeth Cole were extremely accessible and knowledgeable. With their experienced tips they helped me navigate the paperwork jam (which was very selfless of them considering that it had little to do with lawyering per se) and they patiently explained the legal steps we would take before time ran out. I knew they would have my back if push came to shove.
Luckily, in the end the situation resolved itself in a nick of time without having to involve attorneys, but I will never forget how Copper Wren Law provided invaluable advice and guidance knowing full well that the direction they were pointing me in might not necessarily translate into profits for the firm. In my book, the fact that they behaved that way not only makes them capable but honorable as well -- an exotic combination in their trade these days. -
Thank you to Elizabeth and Carly for all their help in setting up our estate planning. Working with them was unbelievably easy and they did all the heavy … More lifting including meeting me at work and driving documents directly to me. Their rates were also a fraction of other firms. That's just good business.
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Copper Wren is the best law firm I have ever used. Dan is exceptional, very understanding and competent. He helps you through any issues and is an excellent … More listener. Carly is really on top of everything. She is very efficient and answers questions in a very timely manner. I definitely would recommend this firm.
Getting Help with Probate
Step 1: Prepare for a Consultation
This may be a difficult, but necessary step in the process. A consultation is most effective when all relevant documents have been gathered ahead of time.
Typically, have at least the the will or trust, death certificate, and information about assets.
Step 2: Attorney Consultation
Be prepared to explain your concerns, goals, and any potential challenges.
Your probate lawyer will assess the situation, recommend a strategic approach, and explain the associated court and legal fees.
Step 3: The Probate Process
Your attorney will help you:
– Initiate the probate process, petition the court on your behalf, and submit necessary documents.
– Identify and value assets
– Settle outstanding debts, estate taxes, and final income taxes
– Ensure proper distribution of assets according to the will or intestacy laws.
Step 4: Guidance Through Closing the Estate
With Copper Wren Law, we’re with you every step of the way to answer questions, address concerns, and represent your interests in court, if necessary.
Once probate is completed, we will file final reports, obtain court discharge, and ensure the estate is properly settled.
Probate in Arizona
Probate in Arizona is a court-supervised process of validating wills, settling debts, and distributing assets after someone dies. It applies if the deceased had a will or died without one (intestate).
We know that probate comes at a time of loss, so we are here to guide you through the process, ensuring legal compliance and efficient estate settlement.
When is Probate Required in Arizona?
Probate isn’t always required in Arizona. It’s generally needed if the deceased:
- Did not have a valid will
- Had assets of $100,000
- Owned real estate solely in their name
- Had financial claims against their estate
- Named a beneficiary that is a minor or lacks legal capacity
- Or, if someone challenges the validity of the will or distribution of assets
This list is not all-inclusive, and there may be other factors that require probate.
How Long Does Probate Take in Arizona?
Probate in Arizona can take anywhere from a few months to over a year.
Simpler estates with a will and no disputes can often be settled through informal probate within 6-12 months. However, complex estates, will contests, or litigation can significantly prolong the process.
Efficient legal representation and timely action can help expedite the probate timeline in Arizona.
How to File for Probate in Arizona?
To file probate in Arizona, you’ll typically file the Will and a Petition for Probate with the Superior Court in the county where the deceased resided. You’ll also need a certified copy of the death certificate and inventory of assets.
It’s highly recommended to seek legal guidance from an Arizona probate attorney to ensure proper procedures and paperwork are followed.
What is Probate Litigation?
Probate litigation in Arizona becomes necessary when disputes arise during the probate process, often due to disagreements over:
- Validity of a will
- Asset distribution
- Estate management
- Breach of fiduciary duty by the executor
When such conflicts arise, court intervention becomes necessary to interpret legal documents, protect the rights of interested parties, and ensure a fair and just resolution to the dispute.
