Estate Administrator

An estate administrator is the person legally appointed to manage the estate of someone who has died without leaving a valid will - a situation known as dying intestate. The administrator’s role is similar to that of an executor but applies where no will exists.

When Is an Estate Administrator Appointed?

Administrators are appointed when:

• The deceased died intestate
• The will is invalid or does not name an executor
• Named executors are unable or unwilling to act

To act, an administrator must obtain Letters of Administration from the Probate Registry. This document gives them legal authority to access and distribute the estate’s assets.

Responsibilities of an Estate Administrator

The administrator’s duties include:

• Identifying and valuing the deceased’s assets and liabilities
• Applying for Letters of Administration
• Settling debts and taxes
• Preparing estate accounts
• Distributing the estate according to intestacy laws

Who Can Be an Administrator?

Priority is typically given to the deceased’s closest living relatives in this order:

1. Spouse or civil partner
2. Children
3. Parents
4. Siblings

Examples and Use Cases

• A son becomes the administrator of his late mother’s estate after she dies without a will.
• A solicitor is instructed by a widower to handle the estate administration process where there is no named executor.

Mini-FAQ

Is an estate administrator the same as an executor?
Functionally similar, but administrators are appointed by the court when no will exists.

Do estate administrators need legal training?
No, but legal guidance is strongly advised, especially for high-value or complex estates.

Can multiple people be administrators?
Yes, up to four people can act jointly.