Probate Problems and Practical Solutions

Summary:In this episode of Probate Problems and Practical Solutions, Carly Whiteside of Copper Wren Law, LLC discusses why inheritance disputes occur so frequently, what red flags to look for when conflict arises, and how to handle an executor who isn’t doing their job. Carly also explains what families can do when they suspect undue influence and offers practical advice for managing emotions while navigating probate.
Timestamps:00:00 – Why inheritance disputes happen so often02:30 – Red flags for probate disputes05:00 – Powers and limits of a personal representative07:30 – Understanding undue influence10:00 – Legal recourse for mismanagement12:30 – Balancing emotion and legal strategy15:00 – What courts really care about17:30 – Options if you don’t want to serve as executor18:30 – Final advice for families in conflict
Show Description:Family conflict after loss is never easy. In this episode, Carly Whiteside shares how to recognize early signs of inheritance disputes, how to respond to executor misconduct, and why timing and communication are key in resolving probate challenges.

Episode Summary
In this episode of Probate Problems and Practical Solutions, Carly Whiteside, founder of Copper Wren Law, breaks down one of the most confusing topics in Arizona probate law — the difference between guardianship and conservatorship. Joined by her partner, Liz Cole, Carly explains when each applies, what families should look out for, and how to avoid costly mistakes when managing a loved one’s care or finances.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The clear difference between guardianship and conservatorship in Arizona
Who can serve in these roles and what their legal responsibilities are
Signs that a family may need to step in for a loved one
What happens when family members disagree about appointments
Why “DIY” filings often backfire — and how to avoid them
How to protect family assets and avoid unnecessary court intervention
Key Timestamps
00:00 – 01:00 Introduction to guardianship and conservatorship01:10 – 02:30 The key differences between managing a person’s care and finances02:40 – 04:10 Who can serve and how Arizona determines appointment priority04:20 – 06:00 Common signs a family may need to step in for aging parents06:10 – 07:30 How to handle family disagreements over who should serve07:40 – 09:00 The risks of DIY filings and common mistakes people make09:10 – 10:00 Why consulting an attorney early can save time and money10:10 – 11:30 Final advice on avoiding unnecessary guardianships or conservatorships
About the Show
Probate Problems and Practical Solutions is a podcast from Copper Wren Law that helps Arizona families navigate probate, guardianship, and conservatorship with confidence. Hosted by firm founder Carly Whiteside, the show breaks down complex legal topics into practical, plain-English guidance. Each episode shares real-world insights, helpful checklists, and compassionate strategies for managing life’s toughest transitions. Whether you’re planning ahead or already in the middle of a probate case, this show gives you the clarity and confidence to move forward.
Learn more at CopperwrenLaw.com.

Episode Summary
In this debut episode, Carly shares the story behind launching Copper Wren Law—the first woman-owned ABS law firm in the U.S. She talks about her journey from a paralegal at the State of Arizona to becoming a law firm owner, why she chose the Alternative Business Structure model, and how she’s changing the way probate and guardianship services are delivered in Arizona. Carly also opens up about the lessons learned in her first few years of business and her mission to bring a client-first, human approach to legal services.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
What an Alternative Business Structure (ABS) law firm is and why Arizona pioneered it.
Why Carly decided to start her own firm and what makes Copper Ren different.
The challenges of launching a law firm as a non-lawyer owner.
How Carly and her team structure client care, communication, and collaboration.
The types of cases Copper Ren handles and why the firm focuses on accessibility.
Why client experience and empathy are at the core of her business model.
Key Timestamps
00:00 – How Carly got started in the legal field02:30 – Discovering Arizona’s ABS program and taking the leap to start Copper Ren04:40 – Lessons learned in the first year of running a law firm06:30 – Building systems, hiring the right people, and improving client intake08:00 – The value of reminder systems and client communication09:30 – How Copper Ren manages collaboration between team members11:00 – The type of clients Copper Ren serves and why accessibility matters13:00 – Why Carly chose not to offer estate planning services14:00 – What makes ABS firms different and how Carly brings customer service into law
About the Show
Probate Problems and Practical Solutions is a podcast from Copper Wren Law that helps Arizona families navigate probate, guardianship, and conservatorship with confidence. Hosted by firm founder Carly Whiteside, the show breaks down complex legal topics into practical, plain-English guidance. Each episode shares real-world insights, helpful checklists, and compassionate strategies for managing life’s toughest transitions. Whether you’re planning ahead or already in the middle of a probate case, this show gives you the clarity and confidence to move forward.