Intervention issues don’t arise often in Arizona probate Court.  Nichols v. Slavicek, No. 1 CA-CV 25-0272 PB (Ariz. App. May 4, 2026) (mem. decision), is a sharp reminder that the rules apply and probate courts cannot quietly sideline a surviving parent from cases involving her own minor children.  Even in an unusual procedural posture, and…

AI is everywhere. And if you’re involved in a probate, trust, or estate dispute, there’s a good chance you’ve already wondered whether you should be using it to help with your case.
It’s a fair question.  One we now routinely hear from clients. The answer is yes, AI can help. But only if you use…

On April 15, 2026, the Arizona Court of Appeals issued a published opinion in Gouveia v. Gruler, No. 1 CA-CV 25-0402 PB.  This is an adult-guardianship dispute worth a careful read for every family member, guardian, and attorney involved in a guardianship case. The decision tackles three questions that come up repeatedly in our probate…

Today’s probate bench‑bar was well attended (93 practitioners at one point) and packed with practical guidance from the court.  Thank you, Commissioner Vanessa Smith, for hosting and coordinating.
Below are the most important updates Arizona probate and fiduciary litigators should be aware of, especially heading into mid‑2026.
Judicial Rotations Effective June 19, 2026
Significant judicial…

If you’re an experienced operations leader with a strong background in legal billing, financial workflows, and team management, and you’re looking for a meaningful role in a supportive, high-performing law firm, Berk Law Group in Scottsdale is hiring, and this could be the perfect fit.
We’re an AV-rated probate, trust, estate, and inheritance litigation firm…

April 1, 2026
Thirty years ago, in the spring of 1996, I was three years in as a litigation associate at what was then one of Arizona’s largest firms.  Then, I was fired.
I’d checked every box and had all the credentials: the top law school, moot court, law review, clinic, honors, clerkship and work…

At Berk Law Group, we know many families begin looking online for answers during stressful and uncertain times. They may be trying to understand who inherits when there is no will, whether a vulnerable adult may be experiencing financial exploitation, or whether guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary. While articles and videos can be helpful,…