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

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

But she said if Judge Little got them letters of administration he was after she expected he’d try to hold us to it, from what he said.”

From The Bondboy by Ogden, George W. (George Washington)

Mrs. Preston lost no time in applying for letters of administration.

From Only an Irish Boy Andy Burke's Fortunes by Alger, Horatio

A grant of letters of administration to the plaintiff with the will executed on or subsequent to the 22nd day of December,1885, annexed.

From Mr. Meeson's Will by Haggard, Henry Rider

In February, 1908, Mme Musurus took out letters of administration in England, and proceeded to pay the debts and the death duties payable in respect of the property in this country.

From International Incidents for Discussion in Conversation Classes by Oppenheim, L. (Lassa)