If there is a will, the person named as executor will usually be appointed as the personal representative. This person is responsible for managing the estate and following probate rules and procedures.

If there is no will, or if the will doesn’t name an executor, or the person named as executor in the Will is unable to be executor or does not want to be executor, the probate court appoints someone called an administrator to handle the process. The court usually chooses the closest living relative, or a person who will inherit some portion of the decedent’s assets.