Arizona's Primary Execution Requirements
The starting point is simple. A paper will is valid in Arizona if it meets the requirements of A.R.S. 14-2502 (signed by the testator and witnessed by at least two people). An electronic will is valid if it complies with A.R.S. 14-2518. Those are Arizona's own standards.
A paper will is valid if it is executed in compliance with section 14-2502. An electronic will is valid if it is executed in compliance with section 14-2518.
A.R.S. § 14-2506(A)But Arizona does not stop there. The statute recognizes that people move, travel, and create estate plans in different places. A will signed years ago in another state should not become invalid just because the testator later moved to Arizona.
When a Will From Another State or Country Still Counts
Arizona applies a generous choice-of-law rule. Even if a will does not meet Arizona's specific execution requirements, it is still valid if it was properly executed under the law of the place where the testator was physically present when signing, or under the law of a place where the testator was domiciled, maintained a home, or held citizenship at the time of execution or at death.
A paper will or an electronic will is valid if its execution complies with the law at the time of execution of the place where the testator is physically present when the testator executes the will, or of the law of the place where at the time of execution or at the time of death the testator is domiciled, has a place of abode or is a national.
A.R.S. § 14-2506(B)This is especially relevant for people who have relocated to Arizona from other states or countries. A will executed in New York, California, or even abroad does not need to be re-executed just because the testator now lives in Arizona. As long as it met the legal requirements of the place where it was signed or the testator lived, it holds up here.
That said, this statute only addresses whether the will was properly executed. It does not guarantee that every provision in the will works as intended under Arizona law. For families who have moved to Arizona, reviewing the will with a partner attorney familiar with Arizona estate law is a sensible step.
