Detailed answer — what Kansas law says and how the process usually works

Short answer: Usually, yes — but only if you meet the legal qualifications and either the will names you or the probate court appoints you. Kansas law (the Kansas Probate Code, Chapter 59) governs who may serve and the procedure the court follows.

How it typically plays out (step-by-step):

1. Locate a will (if any). If your sister left a valid will and it names an executor (also called a personal representative), the named person is first in line to be appointed by the probate court. If that person is you, the court will usually issue letters testamentary after you file the will and petition for probate.
2. No will or no named/available executor. If your sister died without a will (intestate) or the named executor cannot or will not serve, the court appoints an administrator (personal representative). Kansas follows an order of preference among potential appointees — commonly spouse, children, parents, and then siblings. If you are your sister’s sibling and there is no surviving spouse, no descendants, and no parent claiming priority, you may be eligible for appointment.
3. File in the right court. You must file a petition for appointment of a personal representative in the district court in the county where your sister lived when she died. The court gives notice to heirs and interested persons and resolves any competing claims.
4. Qualifications and disqualifications. The court will check that you are an adult and legally competent. Certain disqualifying factors (for example, conflict of interest, inability to post required bond, or criminal convictions in some cases) can prevent appointment. The court has discretion to appoint the person it deems appropriate among those qualified.
5. Bonds, duties, and supervision. Kansas may require a bond to protect estate creditors and beneficiaries. The personal representative’s duties include gathering assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, filing inventories and accountings with the court, and distributing assets according to the will or Kansas intestate law. The court supervises these steps.

Where to read the law: Kansas’s probate rules and statutes appear in Chapter 59 of the Kansas statutes (the Kansas Probate Code). For the text of the probate chapter, see the Kansas Revisor’s site: Kansas Statutes — Chapter 59 (Probate Code).

Practical example (hypothetical): Your sister lived in Kansas and died without a will. She had no spouse, no children, and no living parents. You are her only sibling and you want to serve as personal representative. You would file a petition in the district court in the county where she lived asking the court to appoint you as administrator. If no one with higher priority objects and you meet the court’s qualifications, the court likely will appoint you. You will then follow court directions: inventory the estate, notify creditors, post a bond if required, pay valid claims and taxes, and distribute the estate to the heirs according to Kansas intestate succession rules.

Where to find forms and local rules: Contact the district court clerk in the county where your sister lived or visit the Kansas Judicial Branch website for probate forms and procedural information: Kansas Judicial Branch.

Note on intestate succession priority: The court will apply Kansas’s intestate succession order to determine heirs and appointment priorities. That order governs who inherits if there is no will and who has preference for appointment as personal representative.

Because probate practice has procedural steps, local filing rules, and occasionally contested hearings, many people consult a probate attorney to prepare petitions, give notice correctly, and handle bond or accounting requirements.

Helpful hints — how to prepare if you want to become the personal representative

• Search thoroughly for a will and any advance directives. A will that names an executor speeds the process.
• Gather basic documents: the death certificate, your sister’s will (if any), bank statements, deeds, titles, and a list of known debts and assets.
• Contact the district court clerk where your sister lived to get the correct probate petition forms and local filing requirements.
• Talk with family members and potential heirs early. If heirs agree, they can sign waivers that simplify appointment and reduce court hearings.
• Be prepared to post a bond if the court requires it; a will may waive bond but the court can still require one in some situations.
• Keep meticulous records of all estate transactions, receipts, and communications — you will need these for any court accountings.
• Check for small-estate or summary procedures. Some estates qualify for simplified administration in Kansas; if eligible, administration may be quicker and less expensive.
• If others contest your appointment, expect a court hearing. Bring documentation showing your qualifications and any supporting consents from heirs.
• Consider at least a short consultation with a probate attorney if the estate has complex assets, creditors, tax issues, or potential family disputes.