representative

A representative is one who acts or speaks for another person or entity, such as an agent, attorney, or elected official (for example, a member of Congress).

In probate law, a personal representative is an executor or administrator appointed to manage and distribute a decedent’s estate according to the terms of a will or, if none exists, under applicable intestacy law. The powers and duties of personal representatives are defined by state statute. For example, Wisconsin Statutes ch. 857 outlines the authority and responsibilities of personal representatives in estate administration.

[Last reviewed in November of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team]

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