AZ Probate Reform Momentum Continues

Estate Of Denial.Com has posted a great piece detailing the hearings on two competing probate reform bills that took place earlier this week in Arizona. As one day’s victory often only sets the stage for the next day’s battle, this continued call to action to those engaged in Arizona’s probate reform efforts is critical:


On Wednesday, the Senate Public Safety and Human Services Committee heard SB1499. This bill is the result of the work done and recommendations by the courts committee on improving probate court. It is supported by the courts, fiduciaries, and some attorney groups. It is opposed by many probate court victims, attorneys that represent wards, and other groups supportive of individual rights, whose testimony at the hearing was quite powerful.

The Bill passed out of committee with members striving to get the Bill in a better position.

Here’s why we need to oppose SB1499:

· Harmful to families

· Removes the rights of families to have information about their loved ones

· Little accountability for court appointed guardians

· Creates more confusion in a troubled system

· NO remedies for wrong-doing

Yesterday, the House Judiciary Committee heard HB2424. The bill is a product of a cooperative effort between Rep. David Smith, victims, attorneys, and concerned citizens. Opposed by the courts and some attorney groups, they asked for the bill to be rejected in testimony. Supported by probate victims and families and attorneys for wards. The Bill passed out of committee with 8 aye votes. Again, the testimony of victims continues to being emotionally compelling and shed light on the issues.

PLEASE CONTACT THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE AND THANK THEM FOR THEIR COMMITMENT TO PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF ALL!

Here’s why we need to support HB2424:

· Requires probate law training for judges

· Establishes an accountability panel with private citizens

· Eliminates hearsay from evidence

· Enforces the rights of personal directives

· Keeps families involved in their loved one’s care

· Demands a written accounting of expenses from the ward’s estate

· Allows for a change of fiduciary

Next Steps:

Soon, both Bills will be in other committees then before all Legislators in the chamber of origin; the Senate will hear SB1499 and the House will hear HB2424. We need your help to contact Legislators and ask for their support of HB2424 and no vote on SB1499. Call or email Senators asking them to vote NO on SB1499. Call or email Representatives asking them to vote YES on HB2424.

WE MUST KEEP UP THE MOMENTUM THAT WE HAVE DEVELOPED!

How? Click here to contact Legislators. Remember: Please be brief and respectful in your interaction.