Definition

Noun: A person who is legally authorized to manage the affairs, estate, or interests of another person, typically after that person's death or if they become incapacitated. This role involves duties such as settling debts, distributing assets, and handling legal and financial obligations according to a will or court order.

Usage

The term "personal representative" is a formal legal title. It is used to refer to the individual appointed to administer an estate. * The court appointed her brother as the personal representative of the estate. * As the personal representative, his first duty was to inventory all the assets. * You should contact the personal representative listed in the will for any claims against the estate.

Advanced Usage

• In Probate Law: The term is often used as a generic umbrella term that encompasses both executors (named in a will) and administrators (appointed by the court when there is no valid will). For example: "The personal representative, whether an executor or administrator, must act in the best interest of the beneficiaries."

Variants and Related Words

• Executor (n): A specific type of personal representative explicitly named in a deceased person's will to carry out its instructions.
• Administrator (n): A specific type of personal representative appointed by a court to manage an estate when there is no will or no executor is named.
• Fiduciary (n): A broader legal term for a person who holds a position of trust and is obligated to act in another's best interest. A personal representative is a type of fiduciary.

Synonyms

• Estate administrator
• Legal representative (in the context of estate management)
• Fiduciary

Related Phrases

• To serve as personal representative: To act in the role of a personal representative.
  • She agreed to serve as personal representative for her aunt's estate.
• Duties of a personal representative: The legal responsibilities associated with the role.
  • The lawyer outlined the duties of a personal representative, including paying taxes and debts.

Noun

1. a person who manages the affairs of another