What is a formal document that grants a person the authority to manage a deceased's estate known as?

The term "Letters Testamentary" refers to a formal document issued by a probate court that grants the executor named in a deceased person's will the authority to manage and distribute the deceased's estate according to the terms of that will. This document is essential for the executor to carry out their duties legally, allowing them to handle matters such as settling debts, paying taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries.

In the context of estate management, this legal authority is crucial because it ensures that the person designated by the deceased has the appropriate judicial backing to act on behalf of the estate. Without Letters Testamentary, the executor may not have the required legal capacity to make decisions or perform actions related to the estate.

Understanding this terminology is vital for those involved in probate law and estate management, as it outlines the formal processes and authority granted to executors and administrators in handling a deceased person's affairs.