In the event of a person dying intestate, who is appointed to oversee the estate?

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When an individual dies intestate, meaning without a valid will, the process of managing their estate is handled by someone known as the administrator or administratrix. This person is appointed by the probate court to oversee the distribution of the deceased's assets according to the laws of intestate succession, which vary by state.

The administrator or administratrix has the responsibility to gather the deceased's assets, pay any debts, and distribute the remaining assets to the rightful heirs as determined by law. This official role ensures that the estate is managed in a legal and orderly manner in the absence of a will, safeguarding the interests of the heirs.

In contrast, an executor or executrix is designated in a will to manage the estate of someone who dies testate (with a will). Family members may serve in various capacities but cannot unilaterally oversee the estate without the court's appointment in an intestate situation. While a judge in the local court does play a crucial role in overseeing legal proceedings related to the estate, the appointment of an administrator is specifically the court's action in response to the intestate situation.

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