Letters Testamentary and Letters Administration in California Probate
When the Personal Representative of the Probate Estate is appointed, whether that person is identified by the court as the executor or administrator of the estate, “Letters Testamentary” or “Letters Administration” will be issued to that person by the court. The Letters give the personal representative authority to carry out certain business of the probate proceeding.
This authority is often given under the California Independent Administration of Estates Act, with full authority or limited authority. Full authority allows the personal representative of the estate to sell or exchange real property without court supervision. Limited authority to sell real property requires court supervision.
All estates however, do not require letters or a full probate proceeding. Generally speaking, a probate is only required when the decedent had assets over $150,000 in value. Estates that have no real property, and have a total value under $150,000 can often be administered through a small estate affidavit under Probate Code § 13101.
This information is not to be taken as legal advice, and you are encouraged to see your Walnut Creek Probate Attorney, Michael J. Young.