Define: Letters

In a legal context, “letters” often refer to formal written communications issued by a court or a legal authority. These letters may include letters of administration, letters testamentary, or letters patent, among others. Letters of administration are documents issued by a probate court authorising an individual to administer the estate of a deceased person who died without a will (intestate). Letters testamentary, on the other hand, are issued to an executor named in a deceased person’s will, empowering them to manage and distribute the estate according to the terms of the will. Letters patent are formal documents issued by a government granting certain rights, privileges, or titles to an individual or organisation, such as a patent for an invention or a charter for a corporation. These letters serve as legal evidence of authority and are often required for various administrative and legal purposes.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.