In a significant development for residents of Arizona, the state legislature has passed several new laws that will impact the process of creating wills and navigating the probate process. The changes, which were approved by lawmakers on February 23, 2026, aim to streamline and modernize the estate planning and probate system in Arizona.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the introduction of electronic wills, allowing individuals to create and sign their wills digitally. This move is expected to make the estate planning process more accessible and convenient for Arizonans, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With electronic wills, individuals can now create and execute their wills online, without the need for in-person meetings with attorneys or witnesses.Additionally, the new laws include updated guidelines for the probate process, aiming to expedite the distribution of assets to beneficiaries. Under the new provisions, probate courts in Arizona will be required to adhere to strict timelines for processing and finalizing probate cases, ensuring a more efficient and timely resolution of estates.Furthermore, the legislation includes measures to address issues related to digital assets and estate planning. With the increasing prevalence of digital assets such as cryptocurrency, social media accounts, and online financial accounts, the new laws provide clarity on how these assets should be handled and distributed in the event of a person's death.Legal experts and estate planning attorneys in Arizona have welcomed the new legislation, acknowledging the positive impact it will have on the estate planning process. By modernizing and streamlining the process of creating wills and navigating probate, the new laws aim to make it easier for individuals to protect their assets and ensure their wishes are carried out after their passing.Overall, the passage of these new laws represents a significant step forward for estate planning in Arizona, providing residents with updated tools and guidelines to secure their financial legacy and protect their loved ones. The changes are set to take effect later this year, bringing about a new era of efficiency and convenience in the estate planning process for Arizonans.