By Julian C. Ryer, Ll. B. Professor Of The Law Of Wills, And Probate Practice At The Illinois College Of Law. Author Of "Elements Of Commercial Law." Member Of The Chicago Bar.

An executor is the person nominated in a will by the testator to distribute the property of the deceased according to the provisions fixed by the will.1 An administrator is the person who performs these duties but receives his appointment and power from a court of competent jurisdiction.2 "An administrator is a person lawfully appointed to manage and settle the estate of a deceased person who has left no will." The appointment must be made by a court of competent jurisdiction.