Letters of Administration
An official court document that gives an administrator legal authority to manage an estate when someone dies without a will. It serves the same function as letters testamentary but is issued when there is no will.
Legal Definition
A formal document issued by the probate court appointing an administrator to manage the estate of a person who died intestate or whose nominated executor cannot serve, authorizing the administrator to act on behalf of the estate.
Practical Example
Since Mom died without a will, her son petitions the court to be appointed administrator. Once the court issues letters of administration, he can access Mom's bank accounts, sell her property, and distribute assets to the heirs.