Step-by-step guide to applying to serve as administrator of an intestate estate in Connecticut

Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer. This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, contact a Connecticut probate attorney or your local probate court.

Detailed Answer

If your mother died without a will (intestate) and you want to serve as administrator of her estate in Connecticut, you will ask the probate court in the district where she lived at the time of death to appoint you as the estate’s fiduciary (often called an administrator or administratrix). The probate court then issues official authority—commonly called “Letters of Administration” or similar wording—so you can collect assets, pay debts, and distribute property under Connecticut’s intestacy rules.

1. Confirm which probate court has jurisdiction

The probate court that handles the decedent’s estate is the court in the district where your mother lived when she died. You can find information and court locations on the Connecticut Judicial Branch probate pages: https://www.jud.ct.gov/probate/.

2. Gather the documents you will need

Certified copy of the death certificate.
Your photo ID and contact information.
Basic information about the decedent (full name, date of birth, last address).
A list of known assets (bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, life insurance, retirement accounts) and their approximate values.
Known creditors and bills.
Names and addresses of likely heirs (spouse, children, other relatives).

3. Complete and file the required probate forms

Most Connecticut probate courts require an application to appoint a fiduciary. The Judicial Branch provides probate forms and filing instructions online: https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/. The form names vary by district but are usually titled something like “Application for Appointment of a Fiduciary” or “Voluntary Administration.”

4. Priority rules and who the court will appoint

When someone dies intestate, state law sets a priority list for who may be appointed administrator. Connecticut law gives priority to certain close relatives (for example, a surviving spouse or adult children). If multiple people claim priority, the court decides who is best suited to serve. If no family member seeks appointment, a creditor or other interested person can apply.

5. Bond requirement

The court commonly requires a surety bond to protect the estate against mismanagement. The probate judge may waive the bond if all heirs consent in writing or if a statute or court rule allows waiver. Ask the clerk about the local practice and whether heirs’ waivers will avoid a bond.

6. Hearing, notice, and issuance of letters

After you file the application, the probate court may schedule a short hearing or review the materials administratively. The court typically requires notice to heirs and other interested persons. If the court approves your appointment, it will issue letters or similar documentation that give you authority to act for the estate.

7. Your duties as administrator

Once appointed and bonded (if required), your basic duties include:

Identifying and collecting estate assets.
Safeguarding estate property.
Paying valid debts and taxes.
Notifying creditors and following court timelines for claims.
Preparing inventories, accountings, and a final distribution to heirs under Connecticut intestacy rules.

8. Timeline and costs

Time-to-complete varies with estate complexity. Simple estates can close in a few months; estates with real estate, tax issues, or creditor disputes will take longer. Expect filing fees, possible bond premiums, and other administrative costs. The probate clerk can provide local fee schedules.

9. Contested appointments and disputes

If another person objects to your appointment—because they claim a higher priority or believe you are not fit—the court will resolve the dispute, which can delay the process. In contested matters, consider consulting or hiring a probate attorney.

10. When to hire an attorney

If the estate has significant assets (large bank/retirement accounts, real estate), complicated creditor issues, or family disputes, get a Connecticut probate attorney to protect the estate and reduce personal risk. An attorney can help with filing, bond waivers, creditor notices, tax issues, and contested matters.

Official sources and statutes

Connecticut’s probate courts and probate forms are managed by the Connecticut Judicial Branch: https://www.jud.ct.gov/probate/ and probate forms: https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/.

For the controlling statutes and rules, consult the Connecticut General Assembly and the statutes addressing probate and intestacy (search Title 45a and related chapters) at the Connecticut General Assembly website: https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/titles.htm. You can also search the statutes directly for terms such as “administrator,” “fiduciary,” “intestate,” and “probate.”

Helpful Hints

Contact the probate clerk early. Clerks answer practical questions about forms, fees, bond, and local procedures.
Bring certified copies of the death certificate when you file; the court usually keeps an original or certified copy on file.
Prepare a simple asset list before filing—this saves time and helps the court estimate whether the matter can proceed informally.
If all heirs agree you should administer the estate, get written waivers or consents—these can simplify bond requirements and speed appointment.
Keep clear records and receipts for all estate transactions. You will need them for inventories and final accounting to the court and heirs.
If you suspect estate taxes, unpaid income taxes, or complicated beneficiary designations (retirement accounts, payable-on-death accounts), consult an attorney or tax professional early.
When in doubt, ask for a brief consult with a probate attorney. A short consultation can prevent costly mistakes later.

Final note: Each probate district may have slightly different forms and practices. Use the Connecticut Judicial Branch links above to find local instructions and forms for the district where your mother lived.