The Court's Core Authority
Arizona's superior court has broad jurisdiction over estate and trust matters. This statute spells out exactly what that means. The court handles estates of deceased persons, protection of minors and incapacitated persons, and trust administration. It also has the authority to determine who qualifies as an heir, interpret the language of a will, and resolve disputes over estate assets.
To the full extent permitted by the constitution, the court has jurisdiction over all subject matter relating to: 1. Estates of decedents, including construction of wills and determination of heirs and successors of decedents, and estates of protected persons. 2. Protection of minors and incapacitated persons. 3. Trusts.
A.R.S. § 14-1302(A)The phrase "to the full extent permitted by the constitution" is significant. It means the court's authority is as broad as the Arizona Constitution allows, covering virtually every issue that arises in the context of estates, trusts, and protective proceedings.
Enforcement Powers
Beyond deciding disputes, the court has the power to enforce its orders. If a fiduciary, such as a personal representative or trustee, fails to comply with a court order, the court can hold them in contempt or compel action through body attachment. It can also hear related claims brought by or against fiduciaries and protected persons, including malpractice, breach of contract, personal injury, wrongful death, quiet title, and breach of fiduciary duty.
The court has general jurisdiction to make orders, judgments and decrees and take all other action necessary and proper to administer justice in the matters which come before it.
A.R.S. § 14-1302(B)This broad grant of authority means most estate-related legal issues can be resolved within the same probate court proceeding, rather than requiring separate lawsuits in different courts. That consolidation saves time, reduces costs, and helps families reach resolution more efficiently.
