What a Personal Representative Does
- Files the will with the probate court and asks for appointment
- Identifies and lists all estate assets
- Notifies creditors and pays valid debts
- Files final income tax returns and any estate tax returns
- Distributes remaining assets to heirs per the will or Arizona law
- Provides an accounting to the court and beneficiaries
Who Can Serve as Personal Representative
Arizona law allows any adult who is not incapacitated to serve. Most people name a spouse, adult child, or trusted friend. If no one is named, the court follows a priority order starting with the surviving spouse.
Personal Representative vs. Trustee
A personal representative works under court supervision through probate. A trustee manages trust assets privately, without court involvement. If you have a properly funded living trust, your successor trustee handles most duties. A personal representative may only be needed for minor assets outside the trust.