What is the difference between executor and administrator?

The main difference between an executor and an administrator in Alaska probate law is that an executor is appointed by a person in their will while an administrator is appointed by the court. An executor is a person chosen by the deceased person to oversee the handling of their estate after death. This includes locating the assets of the estate, collecting debts owed to the decedent, and distributing the assets and making sure that the debts are paid. An administrator is an individual, like an executor, but is appointed by the court in cases where a person dies without a valid will or if the will fails to appoint an executor. The administrator is required to perform the same duties as an executor, but it is the court that appoints the administrator and decides what is to be done with the assets of the estate. In some cases, the court may appoint a special administrator, who can be a relative of the deceased person. They will be responsible for managing the assets until the estate is processed and the court has approved the distribution of the assets.

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