letters of administration

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.

letters of administration

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of letters of administration¹

First recorded in 1490–1500

Example Sentences

A woman who administers; esp., one who administers the estate of an intestate, or to whom letters of administration have been granted; a female administrator.

From Project Gutenberg

He left no will, all his property having been previously assigned, and letters of administration were taken out by a creditor.

From Project Gutenberg

Perhaps my poor Pole had given me up as lost, and taken out letters of administration upon my carpet-bag.

From Project Gutenberg

It is, however, necessary to file an affidavit setting out the value of the estate of the deceased upon applying for a grant of probate or letters of administration.

From Project Gutenberg

A foreign executor should present to the inspectors of election an exemplified copy of his letters of administration, and having done so may vote on the stock standing in the testator's name.

From Project Gutenberg