In many cases, probate is a quick and efficient way to transfer the assets of a person who has died (the “decedent”) to his heirs. About 10,000 probate cases are filed each year in the state of Arizona.

A conservatorship proceeding may be started by an elderly person who desires protection of his or her property.

A gift to a minor may consist of stock, money, ownership of a life insurance policy or annuity contract, a right to future payments under a contract, an interest in real estate, or a certificate of title to a vehicle.

Arizona is a community property state. Property acquired by a husband and wife is presumed to be community property, unless legally specified differently.

In Arizona, every person is eligible to be an organ donor; there are no age or physical limitations.

Health care directives constitute an important part of any comprehensive estate plan. Every person implementing an estate plan in Arizona should give serious consideration to executing one or more health care directives.

A durable power of attorney is an important component of any comprehensive estate plan.

On the death of the sole party or the last survivor of two or more parties in an account with a pay on death designation, the sums on deposit belong to the surviving beneficiary or beneficiaries.

For a decedent who was not domiciled in Arizona at the time of death, the allowances are governed by the law of the decedent’s domicile at death.