letters of administration

American  

plural noun

Law.

1. an instrument issued by a court or public official authorizing an administrator to take control of and dispose of the estate of a deceased person.

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letters of administration British  

plural noun

1. law a formal document nominating a specified person to take over, administer, and dispose of an estate when there is no executor to carry out the testator's will

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Etymology

Origin of letters of administration

First recorded in 1490–1500

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

letters of administration

The executor or administrator of your mother’s estate must present court-ordered letters testamentary or letters of administration to access your mother’s accounts.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 15, 2026

In addition to a will, letters testamentary, letters of administration, accounting documents are all accessible to next-of-kin through the Surrogate’s Court.

From MarketWatch ● Dec. 4, 2025

He also extorted an excessive fee for putting the seal to all probates of wills, and letters of administration, even where the estates of the deceased were of the meanest value.

From The History of Virginia, in Four Parts by Robert Beverley

Do," Dunwoodie, with that same look, retorted, "And meanwhile I will apply for letters of administration.

From The Paliser case by Edgar Saltus

This is done by the court granting letters of administration to the person entitled.

From The Project Gutenberg Encyclopedia Volume 1 of 28 by Project Gutenberg