Why These Definitions Matter
Arizona's probate code includes an entire chapter dedicated to estates of people who died while living in another state. Before diving into those rules, the law establishes three key terms that shape how out-of-state estate matters are handled in Arizona courts.
"Local administration" means administration by a personal representative appointed in this state pursuant to appointment proceedings described in chapter 3.
A.R.S. § 14-4101(1)Local administration refers to a full probate proceeding opened in Arizona, even when the deceased person lived elsewhere. This typically happens when the out-of-state decedent owned Arizona real estate or had significant assets here that require court supervision.
Local Representatives and Resident Creditors
A local personal representative is someone appointed through Arizona's courts to manage the estate's Arizona assets. This is distinct from a foreign personal representative, who was appointed in the state where the deceased person lived. The two roles can overlap if the foreign representative also qualifies to act in Arizona under Section 14-4205.
"Resident creditor" means a person domiciled in, or doing business in this state, who is, or could be, a claimant against an estate of a nonresident decedent.
A.R.S. § 14-4101(3)The resident creditor definition is broad. It covers anyone living in Arizona or doing business here who has a potential claim against the out-of-state estate. This protects Arizona-based creditors by giving them standing to seek local administration if the foreign personal representative does not adequately address their claims.