If there is no named executor, a person, usually a friend, family member or another interested party, may come forward and petition the court to become the administrator of the estate by obtaining letters of administration. If no one comes forward on their own, the court may ask a person to serve as an administrator.

What happens if a will does not appoint an executor?

If no executors are named in the will (or none of the named executors are willing or able to act), then someone else will normally need to apply to the probate registry to administer the estate. ... If there is no valid will, one or more relatives will normally be entitled to inherit and can apply to administer the estate.

Do I need to appoint an executor in my will?

Do you need an executor? Technically, you do not need to appoint an executor. But somebody will have to deal with winding up your estate when you die, no matter how little you own. If you haven't appointed at least one executor, or if you named executor has died, then someone else will step in as an administrator.