New Cases vs. Existing Cases
When Arizona adopted the UAGPPJA, lawmakers needed to answer a key question. What happens to guardianship and protective cases already in progress? This statute draws a clear line between new and existing cases.
This chapter applies to guardianship and protective proceedings begun on or after the effective date of this chapter.
A.R.S. § 14-12503(A)For any case started after the law took effect, the whole chapter applies. That covers all the rules about which state has authority. It also covers how cases move between states.
Older Cases Still Get Key Protections
The statute does not leave older cases entirely outside the new framework. Even for cases that began before the law started, certain key parts still apply. This includes cases where a conservator was already named or a guardian order was already in place.
Articles 1, 3 and 4 of this chapter and sections 14-12501 and 14-12502 apply to proceedings begun before the effective date of this chapter regardless of whether a guardianship or protective order has been issued.
A.R.S. § 14-12503(B)This means the general rules, transfer rules, and enforcement tools apply to all cases no matter when they started. Older guardianship cases benefit from the interstate framework even if they were filed before Arizona adopted this law.
For families with existing orders who later need to move or enforce them across state lines, this coverage gives real protection. The home state court keeps primary authority. The protected person's interests stay at the center of any question about which state controls.