Every Filing Carries the Weight of an Oath
Filing a petition, inventory, or claim in a probate case does not always require a separate sworn statement. This statute makes every filing carry that weight automatically. The filer affirms that everything in it is true to the best of their knowledge.
Except as otherwise specifically provided in this title or by rule, each document filed with the court or furnished to an interested person under this title including applications, petitions, demands for notice, claims, inventories and accounts shall be deemed to include an oath, affirmation or statement to the effect that its representations are true as far as the person executing or filing it knows or is informed.
A.R.S. § 14-1310This built-in oath requirement makes the process simpler. Rather than needing a notary for every filing, truthfulness is an automatic condition. This applies in both formal and informal probate.
What Happens if Someone Files False Information
Because every filing is treated as sworn, false information can lead to perjury charges. This applies to personal representatives filing inventories and creditors submitting claims.
An inaccurate inventory could cheat beneficiaries out of their inheritance. A fraudulent claim could drain estate assets. As a result, Arizona discourages dishonesty throughout the process.
What This Means for Families
For families going through probate, this statute adds a layer of protection. Every document the personal representative files carries the weight of a sworn statement. The same is true for creditor claims and court accounts.
If you believe someone has filed false information, this statute gives the court a tool to act. A certified copy of any filing shows what claims were made and when. This helps families hold everyone involved to a higher standard.