Kansas Funeral Director Practice Exam

What is the term used for a person appointed by the court to manage the estate of someone who died without a will?

1. Executor

2. Administrator

3. Trustee

4. Guardian

The correct answer is: Administrator

The term for a person appointed by the court to manage the estate of someone who has died without a will is "Administrator." This designation applies in situations where there is no will to outline the deceased's wishes regarding the distribution of their estate. The court appoints an administrator to oversee the entire process of settling the estate, which includes collecting assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing what remains to the heirs according to state law. In contrast, an executor is someone named in a will to carry out the wishes of the deceased; therefore, this role is not applicable when there is no will. A trustee generally refers to an individual managing assets held in a trust, which is also not relevant in the case of intestate (without a will) estates. Lastly, a guardian usually refers to an individual appointed to care for a minor or someone unable to care for themselves, and does not relate to the management of an estate. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the context of estate management and the legal terminology involved in the probate process.