Executor (fem. Executrix) meaning

A person named in a will to administer the deceased’s estate: identifying, collecting and realising assets, settling debts and taxes, and distributing the balance to beneficiaries. In England and Wales and Northern Ireland, an executor derives authority from the will and typically proves title by obtaining a grant of probate; executors are “personal representatives” under the Administration of Estates Act 1925 (E&W) and the Administration of Estates (Northern Ireland) Order 1979. In Ireland, the role is equivalent and probate issues from the High Court Probate Office under the Succession Act 1965. In Scotland, the equivalent is the executor nominate, appointed by the will and confirmed by the court (confirmation) under the Succession (Scotland) Act 1964. Key features: fiduciary duties; power to sue and be sued; multiple executors may act jointly; an executor may renounce or have power reserved; if none acts, administration passes to an administrator (letters of administration/administration with will annexed; in Scotland, executor dative). The feminine form “executrix” is archaic; “executor” is now gender-neutral. The term is widely used in probate and succession practice and recognised in legislation, case law and procedural rules.