Who is the Petitioner and who should be the Personal Representative?
The Petitioner is the individual submitting the petition to the court. Typically, the petition seeks the appointment of a personal representative (Administrator or Executor) for the Estate. Usually, the petitioner is also the candidate seeking appointment. If the deceased had a Will, it often designates a proposed Executor. If so, this individual holds priority and would need to sign a renunciation for any alternative appointment. In cases of intestacy, the next of kin are usually prioritised for appointment, requiring consent from all individuals of equal or higher priority.