A successor trustee is the person - or professional - who takes over managing a living trust when its creator dies or can no longer serve. While you are well, you are your own trustee; the successor is your named relief.
At incapacity, the successor steps in and runs trust assets for your benefit, alongside your powers of attorney. At death, the successor settles the estate privately: pays what is owed, then distributes exactly as the trust instructs. No court appointment, no letters, no public file - this handoff is the mechanism that makes a trust probate-proof.
Choose someone organized, honest, and willing - and name a backup. Arizona also has licensed professional fiduciaries who serve when no family member fits, for estates where neutrality matters more than sentiment.
Related reading
Educational information only, not legal advice. Terms have statutory details beyond these summaries - confirm your situation with a licensed professional.