What is the role of an administrator appointed by the court?

The role of an administrator appointed by the court primarily involves settling the estate of a deceased person who did not leave a will, a situation often referred to as dying "intestate." In the absence of specific directions from a will, the court appoints an administrator to take charge of the estate, ensuring that all debts are paid, assets are managed, and any remaining property is distributed according to state law. This position is crucial in such cases as it provides a legal framework for handling the deceased's affairs and protects the rights of any rightful heirs.

In contrast, managing a company’s assets is typically outside the responsibilities of an administrator for an estate. Instead, that responsibility could fall under a corporate receiver or liquidator. Similarly, representing the deceased in legal matters usually relates to a probate attorney or personal representative designated by a valid will, and overseeing the distribution of trust funds is a task usually reserved for a trustee. Each of these roles involves distinct legal responsibilities and contexts, highlighting the specific function of an administrator in the probate process.