Clark County Public Administrator

The Public Administrator is an elected position entrusted to oversee the administration of the estates of deceased persons who have no qualified person willing and able to do so. The administrator is required by state law to ensure that the property of the deceased is secured until a relative or other designated person can claim the property. These conditions apply when:

• There are no known heirs.
• No executor has been appointed and as a result, the estate, or any part, is being wasted uncared for or lost.
• The named executor of a will fails to act.
• The will names the Public Administrator as executor.
• An heir or heirs wish to have the estate administered for them by the Public Administrator

When the Public Administrator Steps In

In accordance with state law, the Public Administrator must ensure that the property of a deceased person is safeguarded. If the police or coroner cannot immediately locate a family member when there has been a death, they will request the assistance of the Public Administrator's Office.

Funeral Arrangements

At the request of or in the absence of relatives, the Public Administrator will make necessary funeral arrangements. Arrangements will be made in accordance with any plans of the deceased and within the ability of the estate to pay.  If it appears that there are insufficient funds for a private service, referrals will be made to Clark County Social Service.

Selling of Property

If the estate is debt free and has sufficient cash to pay claims and expenses, the Public Administrator does not ordinarily sell the real property, securities or jewelry of the deceased without the permission of the heirs. At the request of heirs, the estate will be liquidated at public auction.