The Registrar's Role in Probate
Throughout Arizona's probate code, certain actions are described as being performed by "the registrar." Informal probate, for example, is handled by the registrar rather than through a full court hearing. This statute clarifies who that person actually is.
The acts and orders which this title specifies as performable by the registrar shall be performed by a judge, the clerk of the court, a court commissioner or any of such at the selection of the presiding judge of the county designated by the court by a written order filed and recorded in the office of the clerk of the court.
A.R.S. § 14-1307The presiding judge of each county decides who fills the registrar role. It could be a judge, the court clerk, or a court commissioner. The designation must be made through a written order that is filed with the clerk's office, creating a public record of who holds this authority.
Why This Flexibility Exists
Arizona counties vary widely in size and caseload. Maricopa County handles thousands of probate cases each year, while smaller rural counties may see only a handful. Allowing each county to designate its own registrar gives local courts the flexibility to assign the role to whichever official can handle it most efficiently.
This matters for families going through informal probate. The registrar is the person who reviews the application, confirms it meets the statutory requirements, and issues the letters of appointment. Knowing that this role exists and who fills it in your county can help you understand how your case will be processed.