How to Avoid Probate in Arizona
Probate doesn't have to be inevitable. Learn how Arizona families can reduce or avoid probate through revocable living trusts, beneficiary designations, and other effective estate planning strategies.
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Articles on divorce and family law, estate planning, personal injury, and bankruptcy—written for Mesa and East Valley readers.
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Can Spousal Maintenance Be Modified or Terminated in Arizona?
Learn when Arizona courts may modify or terminate spousal maintenance, what qualifies as a substantial and continuing change in circumstances, and when support ends automatically.
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Bicycle vs. Car Accidents: Know Your Rights as a Cyclist in Arizona
Bicycle accidents can cause life-changing injuries. Learn your legal rights as a cyclist in Arizona, what steps to take after an accident, and what compensation may be available.
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Do I Need a Trust If I Own a Home in Arizona?
Owning a home is one of the biggest reasons many Arizona families consider creating a revocable living trust. Learn how trusts work, when they make sense, and how they can help simplify the transfer of your home.
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Contempt of Court in Arizona Family Law Cases: What It Means
Learn what contempt of court means in Arizona family law cases, the types of violations that can lead to contempt, and the possible consequences of failing to follow a court order.
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How Bankruptcy Stops Wage Garnishment in Arizona
If your wages are being garnished in Arizona, bankruptcy may provide immediate relief. Learn how the automatic stay works and what to expect after filing.
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What to Do After a Car Accident in Arizona (Step-by-Step Guide)
Not sure what to do after a car accident in Arizona? This step-by-step guide explains how to protect your health, gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and preserve your legal rights.
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How Long Does Spousal Maintenance Last in Arizona?
Learn how long spousal maintenance typically lasts in Arizona, including the factors courts consider, the Arizona Spousal Maintenance Guidelines, and when maintenance may be modified or terminated.
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What Debts Are NOT Discharged in Bankruptcy? (Arizona Guide)
Not every debt disappears in bankruptcy. Learn which debts typically survive bankruptcy in Arizona, including student loans, taxes, child support, and other important exceptions.
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What to Do After a Car Accident in Arizona (Step-by-Step Guide)
Not sure what to do after a car accident in Arizona? This step-by-step guide explains how to protect your health, preserve evidence, deal with insurance companies, and protect your legal rights after a crash.
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Common Estate Planning Mistakes Arizona Families Make
Many Arizona families unknowingly make estate planning mistakes that can create unnecessary stress, expense, and conflict. Learn the ten most common mistakes and how proper planning can help protect your loved ones.
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Arizona HB 2995 (The "Alec and Lydia Act"): How It Could Change Domestic Violence Allegations in Arizona Custody Cases
Arizona HB 2995, known as the Alec and Lydia Act, could significantly change how Arizona courts handle domestic violence allegations in custody cases. Learn what parents need to know about the proposed changes to legal decision making and parenting time.
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When Do Child Support Obligations End in Arizona?
Learn when child support obligations end in Arizona, including important exceptions involving high school students, disabled adult children, and unpaid child support arrears.
Read articleRelocation Cases in Arizona: What Parents Need to Know Before Moving
Job opportunities, family support, new relationships, and changes in life circumstances often lead parents to consider moving after a divorce or custody case. However, when children are involved, relocation can become one of the most contested issues in Arizona family law. Many parents are surprised to learn that they cannot simply move with their child […]
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Life After Bankruptcy in Arizona: How to Rebuild Credit Fast
Filing bankruptcy can feel like a fresh start—but many people worry about what happens next. The good news is that bankruptcy is not the end of your financial life. In fact, for many Arizona residents, it’s the beginning of rebuilding stronger, more stable credit. If you take the right steps, you can begin improving your […]
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Common Parenting Time Schedules in Arizona (and How to Pick One)
When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important decisions they must make is how to structure parenting time. A clear and workable parenting schedule helps provide stability for children and reduces conflict between parents. Arizona courts encourage parents to create parenting plans that serve the best interests of the child, but there is […]
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Factors Arizona Courts Consider When Awarding Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance, often referred to as alimony, is one of the most complex and fact-specific issues in Arizona divorce cases. While Arizona now has guidelines to provide structure, courts still rely heavily on statutory factors when determining whether maintenance should be awarded — and if so, how much and for how long. Understanding these factors […]
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Temporary Orders in Arizona Divorce Cases: What You Need to Know
Divorce cases can take several months or longer to resolve. During that time, families still need clear rules about finances, housing, and parenting responsibilities. This is where temporary orders come into play. Temporary orders allow the court to establish short-term arrangements while a divorce is pending. These orders help stabilize the situation and prevent conflict […]
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Can You File Bankruptcy More Than Once in Arizona?
Many people assume bankruptcy is a one-time option. If you’ve filed before and find yourself struggling again, you may be wondering whether bankruptcy is still available to you. The answer is yes—you can file bankruptcy more than once in Arizona. However, there are important timing rules and strategic considerations to understand before doing so. Is […]
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Can Child Support Orders Be Modified in Arizona?
Child support orders are designed to reflect the financial circumstances of both parents and the needs of the child at the time they are entered. However, life rarely stays the same. Income changes, parenting schedules shift, and children’s needs evolve over time. Because of this, Arizona law allows parents to request a modification of child […]
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What Happens to Co-Signers When You File Bankruptcy in Arizona?
Many people file bankruptcy to get relief from overwhelming debt—but then hesitate because they’re worried about a co-signer. If someone helped you by co-signing a loan, credit card, or vehicle, it’s natural to ask: What happens to them if I file bankruptcy in Arizona? The answer depends on the type of bankruptcy you file and […]
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Can Parenting Time Orders Be Modified in Arizona?
Parenting plans and parenting time schedules are designed to provide stability for children after a divorce or custody case. However, life circumstances often change. Work schedules shift, children grow older, families move, and new challenges arise. When these changes affect a child’s well-being or a parent’s ability to follow the existing parenting plan, Arizona law […]
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How Long Does a Divorce Take in Arizona?
One of the most common questions people ask when considering divorce is: “How long will this take?” The answer depends on several factors, including whether the divorce is contested, how quickly paperwork is completed, and whether the parties can reach agreements on key issues. Arizona law sets a minimum waiting period, but the overall timeline […]
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Bankruptcy for Seniors in Arizona: Protecting Your Retirement and Income
Many Arizona seniors live on fixed incomes and face financial pressure from medical bills, credit cards, or unexpected life events. If you’re retired—or nearing retirement—you may worry that filing bankruptcy could put your Social Security, pension, or retirement savings at risk. The good news is that bankruptcy often provides powerful protections for seniors, and in […]
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How Small Business Owners in Arizona Can Use Bankruptcy to Rebuild
Running a small business is risky—even when you do everything right. Rising costs, slow-paying clients, unexpected expenses, or economic downturns can quickly turn a once-profitable business into a financial burden. For Arizona small business owners facing overwhelming debt, bankruptcy can be a powerful tool to regroup, reset, and rebuild. Bankruptcy isn’t always the end of […]
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Bankruptcy and Student Loans: Is There Any Relief in Arizona?
Student loan debt can feel overwhelming, especially when it follows you for decades and limits your ability to move forward financially. Many Arizona residents are told that student loans are never dischargeable in bankruptcy — but that’s not entirely true. While student loans are treated differently than most debts, bankruptcy can still provide relief in […]
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Can Bankruptcy Stop Foreclosure in Arizona?
Bankruptcy is not the right solution in every foreclosure situation. Factors that matter include: How far behind you are on payments Your income and ability to maintain future payments Whether you have other debts contributing to the problem Whether loan modification or other alternatives are available
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How the Arizona Bankruptcy Process Works from Start to Finish
Deciding to file for bankruptcy is a big decision. Understanding what happens next can help you feel confident and prepared. If you’re navigating debt in Arizona, knowing how the process works — from your first step to the final discharge — will make the journey less overwhelming. At Arsenal Law, we guide Arizona clients through […]
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Arizona’s Spousal Maintenance Guidelines: What’s Changed and What to Expect
Spousal maintenance — often called alimony — has long been one of the most unpredictable areas of Arizona family law. For years, judges had broad discretion, which made outcomes difficult to predict for both paying and receiving spouses. That changed when Arizona adopted Spousal Maintenance Guidelines, designed to bring more consistency and transparency to these […]
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How Arizona Calculates Child Support: A Step-by-Step Guide
Child support is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — issues in Arizona family law cases. Many parents assume there is a flat percentage or a simple formula, but in reality, Arizona uses detailed Child Support Guidelines to calculate support obligations based on several factors. Understanding how child support is calculated can […]
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New Year's Resolutions: Updating Your Estate Plan in 2026
As Arizonans welcome 2026, many are focusing on New Year's resolutions like improving health, finances, or spending more time with family. One of the most meaningful—and often overlooked—resolutions is reviewing and updating your estate plan. Life evolves quickly: new grandchildren, home purchases, business growth, divorces, or health changes can render an old plan outdated, potentially […]
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How Arizona Courts Decide Parenting Time and Legal Decision-Making
When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important — and emotionally charged — issues is how decisions will be made for their children and how much time each parent will spend with them. In Arizona, courts focus on one guiding principle: the best interests of the child. Understanding how Arizona courts decide parenting […]
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Bankruptcy vs. Debt Settlement in Arizona: Which One’s Better?
If you're drowning in debt and looking for a way out, you’ve probably come across two main options: bankruptcy and debt settlement. But which one is actually better for Arizona residents? At Larson Law Office, we frequently help clients understand the pros and cons of each option. The right choice depends on your specific financial […]
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Medical Debt and Bankruptcy: What Arizona Residents Should Know
Unexpected medical bills are one of the leading causes of financial distress in Arizona. Even with health insurance, out-of-pocket expenses, co-pays, and uncovered procedures can pile up quickly—especially after a major illness or emergency. If you’re struggling to stay afloat due to medical debt, bankruptcy may offer the relief you need. At Arsenal Law we […]
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What to Do If a Creditor Sues You in Arizona
Getting sued by a creditor in Arizona can be frightening—but it’s important to know you have options. Whether you’ve received a court summons or a default judgment has already been entered against you, the key is to act quickly and understand your rights. At Arsenal Law, we help Arizona residents fight back against creditor lawsuits […]
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Why Every Arizona Retiree Should Have a Revocable Living Trust
Retirement is the perfect time to enjoy the rewards of your hard work — traveling, spending time with family, and living life on your terms. But it’s also the time to make sure your affairs are in order, especially if you want to avoid court involvement, protect your legacy, and make things easier for your […]
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Can Bankruptcy Stop Wage Garnishments in Arizona?
If your paycheck is being garnished in Arizona, you’re not alone—and you’re probably feeling the pressure. Wage garnishment can make it nearly impossible to keep up with your bills, especially when creditors are taking a chunk of your hard-earned income before you even see it. The good news? Filing for bankruptcy can stop wage garnishments […]
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What Happens If a Spouse Refuses to Sign Divorce Papers in Arizona?
Many people fear that if their spouse refuses to sign divorce papers, they’ll be trapped in the marriage indefinitely. Fortunately, that’s not how it works in Arizona. Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, which means you don’t need your spouse’s permission to end your marriage. Once the legal requirements for service and notice are met, […]
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How Arizona’s Bankruptcy Exemptions Can Help Protect Your Property
One of the biggest fears people have when considering bankruptcy is losing everything they own. The good news? Arizona’s bankruptcy exemptions are designed to help protect your property—especially the things you need to live and rebuild. At Arsenal Law, we help you understand how these exemptions work and how to use them strategically in your […]
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Bankruptcy and Divorce in Arizona: What You Need to Know
If you’re facing both divorce and serious debt in Arizona, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Bankruptcy and divorce often go hand in hand, and how you handle them can have a big impact on your financial future. At Arsenal Law, we help clients understand the pros and cons of each path and how […]
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How Prenuptial Agreements Are Enforced in Arizona
A prenuptial agreement can be one of the most important financial planning tools for couples entering marriage — especially in Arizona, where community property laws can significantly affect each spouse’s rights. But not all prenuptial agreements hold up in court. Whether you’re preparing to sign one or facing divorce years after creating one, it’s critical […]
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Dividing a Business in Divorce: What Arizona Courts Consider
Introduction When a marriage ends and one or both spouses own a business, property division becomes much more complicated. In Arizona, a business is treated as an asset — one that must be identified, valued, and divided under the state’s community property laws. Whether you built a company before marriage, started one with your spouse, […]
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How Does Arizona’s Community Property Law Affect Divorce?
When going through a divorce in Arizona, one of the biggest concerns for most couples is: Who gets what? Arizona is one of only a handful of states that follows community property law, meaning most property acquired during the marriage belongs equally to both spouses. But “equal” doesn’t always mean simple or obvious. Understanding how […]
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How Comparative Negligence Works in Arizona Injury Cases
Introduction Car accidents and personal injury cases aren’t always clear-cut. Sometimes, more than one person is at fault. Arizona follows a legal rule called comparative negligence, which determines how compensation is awarded when both the injured person and the other party share some responsibility. Understanding this rule is critical if you’ve been injured in an […]
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The 7 Key Figures Used to Calculate Child Support in Arizona
When parents in Arizona go through a divorce or custody case, one of the biggest questions is: How is child support calculated? Arizona uses a standardized formula under the Arizona Child Support Guidelines. While each case has unique circumstances, there are seven figures that are always required to run the calculation. Understanding these numbers can […]
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Estate Planning for Blended Families in Arizona
Blended families are now more common than ever in Arizona. Whether you’ve remarried, have stepchildren, or share children from previous relationships, your estate plan needs to reflect your unique family structure. Without careful planning, Arizona’s default inheritance laws can lead to confusion, unintended disinheritance, or even family conflict. Here’s how blended families in Arizona can […]
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Estate Planning for Young Families in Arizona: Why You Shouldn’t Wait
When you’re busy raising kids, saving for a home, or juggling careers, estate planning might feel like something you can put off until later. But if you have minor children or dependents, an estate plan is one of the most important protections you can have — even in your 20s, 30s, or early 40s. Here’s […]
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Can I Keep My Tax Refund If I File for Bankruptcy in Arizona?
If you’re considering bankruptcy in Arizona, one of the first questions you might ask is: What happens to my tax refund? The answer depends on several factors, including the timing of your bankruptcy, the amount of the refund, and how it’s classified under Arizona and federal exemption laws. At Arsenal Law, we help clients protect […]
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Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid Before Filing for Bankruptcy in Arizona
Filing for bankruptcy can offer a powerful financial reset, but what you do before filing can seriously affect your case. At Arsenal Law, we help Arizona clients avoid common pitfalls that could delay or even derail their bankruptcy filing. Here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid if you're considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 […]
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What Happens to My Credit After Filing for Bankruptcy in Arizona?
Filing for bankruptcy can offer a fresh start, but many people worry about how it will affect their credit. If you’re considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Arizona, it’s important to understand how your credit will be impacted—and how you can begin rebuilding right away. At Larson Law Office, we help clients not […]
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What Debts Can (and Can’t) Be Discharged in an Arizona Bankruptcy?
Filing for bankruptcy in Arizona can give you a powerful fresh start—but not all debts are treated the same. Some debts can be wiped out completely, while others may stick with you even after your case is closed. Knowing which debts qualify for discharge can help you make informed decisions and avoid surprises down the […]
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Estate Planning After Divorce in Arizona: What Needs to Change?
Divorce changes everything — including your estate plan. If you’ve recently divorced in Arizona (or are in the process), your estate planning documents may no longer reflect your wishes. Your former spouse may still be listed as a beneficiary, a trustee, or even someone who can make financial or medical decisions on your behalf. Here’s […]
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Estate Planning for Young Families in Arizona: Why You Shouldn’t Wait
If you are a young parent in Arizona, estate planning might feel like something you don’t need to think about yet. After all, you’re healthy, working hard, and focused on raising kids — not worrying about wills and trusts. But here’s the truth: estate planning isn’t just for retirees or the wealthy. It’s one of […]
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How to Protect Minor Children With an Arizona Estate Plan
If you’re a parent in Arizona, estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your children. It’s not just about money — it’s about making sure your kids are cared for by the right people, in the right way, if something happens to you. Here’s how to create an […]
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Is Arizona a No-Fault State? Understanding Liability in Car Accidents
When you're involved in a car accident, one of the first questions that comes up is: Who’s going to pay for the damage and medical bills? The answer depends on whether your state follows a fault or no-fault system. In this post, we’ll break down how Arizona handles liability in car crashes and what it […]
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Will I Lose My Home or Car If I File for Bankruptcy in Arizona?
One of the biggest fears people have about filing for bankruptcy is the possibility of losing their home or vehicle. These are often essential to daily life—and emotionally important too. The good news is that Arizona bankruptcy laws include strong protections for your primary residence and vehicle, depending on your specific situation. In this blog, […]
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The 5 Essential Estate Planning Documents Every Arizonan Needs
When people hear “estate planning,” they often think it’s only for the wealthy. But the truth is, every adult in Arizona needs a basic estate plan, no matter their income or family structure. Why? Because it’s not just about what happens after you die — it’s also about who makes decisions for you if you […]
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How to Avoid Probate in Arizona
No one wants their loved ones to spend months in court, file legal forms, or pay attorney fees just to transfer their assets. That’s why many Arizona families ask: How can I avoid probate? The good news is that Arizona offers several legal tools to help you keep your estate out of probate — if […]
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What to Do After a Car Accident in Arizona (Step-by-Step Guide)
A car accident can leave you feeling shaken, confused, and overwhelmed—especially if it’s your first. At Arsenal Law, we help Arizona drivers who don't know what to do after a crash and are now facing an uphill battle with insurance companies. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to protect yourself physically, legally, […]
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Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Which One Is Right for You in Arizona?
If you're facing overwhelming debt, filing for bankruptcy may be the best way to reset your finances and stop creditor harassment. But one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to file under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Both options are available to Arizona residents, but they […]
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Will vs. Trust in Arizona: Which One Is Right for You?
When it comes to estate planning in Arizona, one of the most common questions is: “Do I need a will or a trust?” The truth is, it depends on your situation. Both tools serve a purpose — and understanding the difference is key to protecting your family, your assets, and your wishes. What Is a […]
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What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Arizona?
If you pass away without a will in Arizona, you don’t just leave behind your belongings — you also leave behind a legal mess for your loved ones to sort out. When someone dies without a valid will, they are said to have died “intestate.” And in Arizona, that means the state decides who inherits […]
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Understanding the Means Test in Arizona Bankruptcy
If you're considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Arizona, one of the first steps is passing the means test—a calculation used to determine whether your income qualifies you for a discharge of debts under Chapter 7. The means test is designed to limit Chapter 7 relief to individuals who truly cannot afford to pay […]
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Why a Trust Can Protect Your Children from Debt and Divorce
When parents create an estate plan, one of their primary goals is often to provide financial support and security for their children. But what happens if your children are struggling with debt or are in an unstable marriage? Without proper planning, the inheritance you leave behind could be vulnerable to creditors, lawsuits, or even an […]
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What Went Wrong With Prince’s Estate? A Cautionary Tale in Estate Planning
What Went Wrong With Prince’s Estate? A Cautionary Tale When music icon Prince passed away unexpectedly in 2016, the world mourned the loss of a legend. But behind the headlines, a legal and financial nightmare was unfolding — one that could have been prevented with a single document: a will. Despite a reported estate worth […]
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Do I Qualify for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Arizona?
If you’re struggling with overwhelming debt, constant collection calls, or the threat of wage garnishment, you may be wondering if Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the right option for you. For many Arizona residents, Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers a fresh start by eliminating most unsecured debts—such as credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. However, qualifying […]
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Why Mediation Matters in Arizona Divorce and Custody Cases
Divorce and custody disputes are some of the most emotionally and financially draining experiences a person can go through. Litigation in court can be time consuming, drain your bank account, increase your stress, and leaves critical life decisions in the hands of a judge who doesn't know you or your family. Fortunately, mediation offers a […]
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Can You Get Reimbursed for Helping Your Spouse’s Business in an Arizona Divorce?
If your spouse owned a business before marriage and you contributed time or money to help it grow, you may be wondering: Do I get anything back in the divorce? The answer in Arizona is: Maybe — through a reimbursement or equitable claim. Arizona law allows a spouse to ask for reimbursement when community assets […]
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Top 5 Intersections in Mesa for Car Crashes — and How to Stay Safe
Car accidents can happen anywhere, but certain intersections in Mesa, Arizona, are more dangerous than others. Whether you're a local resident or just driving through, being aware of high-risk areas can help you stay alert and avoid potential collisions. Below are the top 5 intersections for car crashes in Mesa, based on traffic data and […]
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How to Settle Your Arizona Family Court Case Without Going to Trial
Going through a divorce or custody case can feel overwhelming, but not every family law matter has to end in a courtroom. In fact, most cases in Arizona settle before trial. Settling your case can save time, reduce stress, and help you stay in control of the outcome. Why Settlement Is Often the Best Outcome […]
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Updating Estate Planning After a Dementia Diagnosis
Planning early after a dementia diagnosis ensures that your medical and personal wishes are documented, which can ease future stress and maintain control over decisions as the disease progresses.
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What Is a Resolution Management Conference (RMC) in Arizona Family Court?
A Resolution Management Conference (RMC) is usually the first hearing in an Arizona divorce or custody case. It’s not a trial, and it’s not about presenting evidence. Instead, the RMC is a meeting with the judge to: Although no testimony is taken, the RMC plays a critical role in shaping the direction and timeline of […]
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Can One Parent Move Away With the Kids? Lessons From Steve Nash’s Arizona Custody Case
Steve Nash and the Arizona Custody Relocation Battle In 2013, former Phoenix Suns point guard Steve Nash became the center of a high-profile Arizona custody case. The dispute wasn’t about whether he would be involved in his children’s lives — it was about where they would live. Nash opposed his ex-wife, Alejandra Amarilla, moving their […]
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When a Parent Is Charged With a Crime: Lessons From the Lori Vallow Daybell Case
The Lori Vallow Daybell Case: A National Tragedy With Family Law Implications The name Lori Vallow Daybell has become nationally known — not just for the disturbing criminal charges she faced, but for the complex custody and legal issues surrounding her children. Vallow and her husband, Chad Daybell, were convicted in connection with the deaths […]
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How Is Spousal Maintenance Calculated in Arizona — And How Does It Affect Child Support?
In Arizona divorces, two of the biggest financial questions are: These two issues are closely connected — and understanding how spousal maintenance is calculated can help you anticipate how it might affect your child support obligations (or rights). Let’s break it down. What Is Spousal Maintenance in Arizona? Spousal maintenance is financial support that one […]
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How Young Families in Arizona Can Create an Effective Estate Plan
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or the elderly. For young families in Arizona, it’s a powerful tool to protect your children and secure your financial future. Without a proper plan in place, Arizona law—not you—will decide who cares for your children and how your assets are distributed. Here’s how to take control. Key […]
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Arizona Estate Planning Basics: Will vs. Trust — Which One Is Right for You?
If you own a home, have children, or simply want to make life easier for your loved ones, you need an estate plan. One of the most common questions we hear is: “Should I get a Will, a Trust, or both?” In this article, we break down the key differences between a Last Will and […]
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Arizona Child Custody and Legal Decision-Making Explained
When parents separate or divorce in Arizona, the court divides what many call “custody” into two key concepts: legal decision making and parenting time. Understanding the difference between the two, and how Arizona courts decide what’s best for your child, is essential when you are co-parenting with the other parent after separation. What Is Legal […]
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Grandparent Visitation Rights in Arizona
Arizona law allows grandparents to seek court-ordered visitation in certain circumstances under Arizona family law. Whether due to divorce, loss, or estrangement, Arizona law provides a path for grandparents to remain part of their grandchildren’s lives when it's in the child's best interest. Technically, the law provides visitation rights for "non parents" that are not […]
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Best Co-Parenting Apps for Arizona Families in 2025: A Comparison Guide
Navigating shared custody or parenting time can be complicated—but technology can help. Whether you're newly divorced or years into a parenting plan, the right co-parenting app can reduce miscommunication, organize schedules, and streamline expense tracking.As Arizona family law attorneys, we often get asked: Which co-parenting app should we use? Below is our comparison of the […]
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Is Your Estate Plan Ready for a Recession?
From a gift and estate tax planning perspective, economic downturns offer unique leverage, allowing clients to transfer wealth more efficiently, reduce estate tax exposure and position themselves for significant long-term advantage.
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5 Common Summer Parenting Plans for Co-Parents
Summer break brings big changes to family routines—especially for parents who share custody (or parenting time as it is known in Arizona). Without school anchoring the schedule, many families need to adjust their parenting plans to ensure both parents have meaningful time with their children while also planning vacations, camps, and activities. Robert Larson has […]
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Understanding Community Property vs. Separate Property in Arizona Divorce Cases
When going through a divorce in Arizona, one of the most critical aspects to consider is property division. Arizona is a community property state, which can significantly impact how assets and debts are divided between spouses. There are important distinctions to be made between community property and separate property. Understanding the difference between these two […]
Read articleArizona Estate Planning Attorney | Practical Planning. Peace of Mind.
Protect Your Family, Your Future, and Everything You’ve Built. No matter your stage in life, creating a thoughtful estate plan is one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones. Whether you need a basic will, a living trust, or help navigating probate, we make the process clear, affordable, and personal. Serving […]
Read articleUnderstanding the Differences Between Legal Decision Making and Parenting Time in Arizona
When parents separate or divorce, decisions regarding their children's care and upbringing become crucial. In Arizona, these decisions are categorized into two main areas: legal decision-making and parenting time. Understanding the differences between these concepts is essential for navigating family law matters effectively. Legal Decision Making Legal decision making refers to the authority to make […]
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Choosing an Experienced Divorce Attorney in Mesa, AZ: Why It Matters
Divorce is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face, emotionally and legally. At Arsenal Law in Mesa, Arizona, I’m Robert Larson, an experienced divorce attorney dedicated to guiding clients through this difficult process with clarity and confidence. With years of handling complex family law cases, I understand the stakes—your financial future, your […]
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Understanding Your Right to Information After the Death of a Relative
After a relative's death, beneficiaries have rights to information about the estate, including accessing the will and understanding asset distribution. A probate lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights and resolve disputes to ensure that the estate is managed fairly and transparently.
Read articleEstate Planning for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: What You Need to Know
Explore legal options like guardianship and grandparent power of attorney to ensure the well-being of grandchildren you're raising.
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Seniors Cannot Be Careful Enough About Internet Scammers
Criminals on the internet are increasingly going after Americans over the age of 60 because they are viewed as having the largest piles of savings.
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Should I Add My Pet to Estate Plan?
When it comes to pets and estates, there are two main rules to understand.
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Do You Need a Will or Trusts or Both?
A traditional will could be the simplest but not necessarily the best way to pass on your legacy.
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Should You Have a Roth or Traditional 401(k)?
The 401(k) was built on a simple idea. Set aside money from each paycheck to save for tomorrow and get a tax break today. Many workers now have another option: Save the tax break for tomorrow, too.
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How to Include Digital Assets in Your Estate Plan
Cryptocurrency has changed the nature of what can be considered an asset, and that’s affected estate planning, too, the process of allocating your assets to your heirs on your death.
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Three More Reasons to Have an Estate Plan
Estate planning not only makes things easier for your loved ones if you become incapacitated or when you’re gone, but it also does these three important things.
Read articleWhat Should I Know About Estate Planning?
To ensure that your desires are respected and executed, you need estate planning.
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When Is Life Insurance Taxable?
While life insurance is typically not taxable, there are some notable exceptions that could play a role and are important to consider regarding any life insurance policy and benefit.
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How to Find Out If a Person has a Will
Estate planning is a crucial aspect of financial management, ensuring that an individual’s assets are distributed according to their wishes after their passing. One key document in estate planning is a “last will and testament,” commonly known as a will.
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Transferring Property to Heirs? Skip Top Five Mistakes
Death is inevitable, but dying without an estate plan is not. Estate planning is a must for property owners, no matter how uncomfortable the subject might make you.
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What Happened when Robin Williams’ Wife was Cut Out of Estate?
The unexpected death of comedy icon Robin Williams in 2014 set off an explosive battle over his $50 million estate.
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When Is a Trust a Good Idea?
Setting up a trust is one way to transfer wealth to a loved one and create financial stability for them.
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Why Can’t Rock Stars Retire?
With his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, Elton John confirmed his latest plans for retirement. The final show of the tour in July 2023 will be his last. However, deja vu suggests this might not be the last we see of Elton.
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What Should I Know About a Living Trust?
A living trust is a legal document which places ownership and control of property into a trust, managed by a trustee for your benefit. Living trusts are often used as part of estate planning and can be helpful in case of incapacity.
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What Happens When There’s No Will?
Dying intestate can have unintended consequences for pretty much every family type. However, it is especially painful if there are unmarried partners or stepchildren, who are left out under the law in almost every scenario.
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Navigating Legal Decision Making (Child Custody): Tips for Co-Parenting Successfully
Divorce or separation can be emotionally challenging, especially when children are involved. One of the most important aspects to address during this time is legal decision making and parenting time (often referred to as child custody outside of Arizona). Co-parenting requires effective communication, cooperation, and a focus on the best interests of the child. This […]
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What to Do When a Spouse Dies
Unfortunately, during the grieving process surviving spouses also need to navigate the complex financial issues that arise after the death of their partner.
Read articleDo Heirs Have to Pay Debts from an Estate?
When heirs inherit from an estate, they must deal with the debts of the person who died. It is important for an estate plan to take those debts into consideration.
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What Are Estate Taxes?
Studies suggest that millennials will inherit an astounding $68 trillion in the coming years, making them the wealthiest generation in history. While this may be great news for some, it also comes with significant tax implications.
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Why Everyone Needs a Will and an Estate Plan
Estate planning is the process of anticipating and arranging for the management and disposal of a person's estate during the person's life in preparation for a person's future incapacity or death.
Read articleCan I Keep Stepchildren Out of Estate Plan?
Estate planning is nearly always worthwhile but can be extra important when you have stepchildren.
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Protect Your Elderly Parents from Scammers
Scam artists often target older adults, partly because they have amassed greater wealth.
Read articleProtecting Assets with a Trust vs. Limited Liability Company
To protect assets effectively, you have to store them in the right legal entity. However, that can depend on whether you’re looking to protect business assets, avoid estate taxes, or protect personal assets from legal liability while running a business.
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Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid
It is a common misconception that only the ‘uber rich’ need an estate plan, when in actuality, everyone should have a plan.
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Estate Planning Checklist
Estate plans are made up of many parts, including wills and trusts, as well as any additional documents or information that will help beneficiaries carry out the requests of the benefactor.
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How to Transfer Business to the Next Generation
Failing to properly plan for disability, death, or the ultimate transition of a family business can lead to disastrous financial consequences for both the business and the family.
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The Benefits of a Good Estate Plan
Estate planning helps you avoid many problems. While it may take a little time and money upfront, you can avoid far worse problems later on.
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What’s More Important: Estate Plan or Trust?
Trusts and estates are the two main legal structures for transferring assets to your heirs and beneficiaries. Each works in critically different ways.
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Communication is Key in Generational Estate Planning
For most families, the estate planning process is more involved than simply naming beneficiaries. While the primary goal of estate planning is transferring assets in an orderly and tax-efficient manner, it’s just as important to focus on preserving wealth across generations.
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Can You Believe Aging Parents Grow Stubborn and They Know It?
Aging parents grow stubborn, and researchers are uncovering the reasons why.
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Here’s Why You Need an Estate Plan
No matter what line of work you are in, estate planning has facets that apply to everyone, and it comes down to documenting wishes and avoiding probate and unnecessary taxes. Too many people put it off, but, in general, the sooner you do it, the better.
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Will I Live Longer, if I Babysit the Grandchildren?
Looking for an extra incentive to spend some quality time with your grandchildren? Try telling their parents that it could extend your life.
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