PROBATE & TRUST ADMINISTRATION

Attorney-led Guidance Through Arizona Probate and Trust Administration

When you're responsible for administering a loved one's estate or trust in Arizona, you need experienced counsel who understands both the technical requirements and the human dynamics involved. We guide Maricopa County families through probate and trust administration with clarity, efficiency, and respect for your loved one's wishes.

Our Non-Litigation Approach

While much of our practice focuses on helping clients avoid probate through careful planning, we recognize that post-death administration is sometimes necessary. We handle uncontested probate and trust matters throughout the East Valley, including Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, and greater Maricopa County - streamlining court filings, managing creditor claims, and ensuring proper distributions without the need for litigation.

For Executors & Personal Representatives

Arizona probate can feel overwhelming when you're grieving. We guide court-appointed fiduciaries through every step:

  • Court Filings & Compliance — Petitions, notices, and inventory requirements handled correctly the first time

  • Creditor Claims Management — Meeting statutory deadlines while protecting estate assets

  • Asset Marshaling — Identifying, securing, and valuing estate property

  • Tax Coordination — From the final 1040 through estate tax returns, maximizing available elections

  • Distribution & Accounting — Transparent documentation that protects you from personal liability

For Successor Trustees

Trust administration may avoid court, but it carries significant responsibilities. We counsel trustees on:

  • Beneficiary Notices — Meeting Arizona's statutory requirements for trust notification

  • Fiduciary Compliance — Understanding your duties and avoiding personal liability

  • Tax-Aware Administration — Coordinating income tax planning with distribution strategies

  • Investment & Management — Prudent administration during the settlement period

  • Final Distributions — Proper documentation and releases to conclude administration

For Beneficiaries

Understanding your rights shouldn't require a law degree. We provide beneficiaries with:

  • Clear explanations of timelines and processes

  • Transparency about distribution procedures

  • Advocacy for your interests within the estate or trust framework

  • Mediation when family dynamics complicate administration

Tax-Sensitive Administration

With an LLM in taxation and deep experience in estate tax planning, we ensure every administration maximizes available benefits—from portability elections to basis adjustments, charitable deductions to generation-skipping considerations. Our tax expertise often recovers significant value that general practitioners miss.

Premium Flat-Fee Structures

For many uncontested matters, we offer transparent flat-fee arrangements quoted after understanding your specific situation. No surprises, just efficient resolution.

Coordinating with Your Advisory Team

We work seamlessly with your existing CPAs, financial advisors, and other professionals to ensure cohesive administration. When litigation becomes necessary, we maintain trusted referral relationships while continuing to coordinate strategy for seamless client service.

Let's Discuss Your Situation

Whether you're facing a straightforward probate in Maricopa County Superior Court or need guidance with trust administration, we're here to help. For estates with assets outside Arizona, we coordinate with trusted ancillary counsel to ensure seamless administration. Contact us at (480) 930-5859 to schedule a consultation.

Contact us.

Email: information@ganserlaw.com
Office: (480) 930-5859
Fax: (480) 542-9617

8787 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Suite 220
Scottsdale, Arizona 85255