Austin, TX estates planning & probate attorney Lorenza Cigarroa explains what you need to know about probate and estate administration. She handles probate and estate administration, which takes place after an individual passes away. When someone dies with assets to be distributed, creditors to be paid, or other estate matters that require attention, clients turn to her for guidance throughout the process. She typically works with family members who are appointed as executors in a will, or, if there is no will, those eligible to serve as the personal representative of the estate.

She ensures that her clients comply with all deadlines and statutory filings required by Texas law and the courts, as probate involves strict paperwork, timelines, and procedural requirements that many people may not anticipate. Her work encompasses both court filings and the practical administration of the estate, including paying creditors and distributing assets to beneficiaries.

For high-net-worth estates or taxable estates, she assists with preparing estate tax returns for the IRS and coordinates every step to ensure the process runs smoothly. Her goal is to make certain all deadlines are met, beneficiaries receive their inheritance, and any potential liabilities for the estate or its representatives are minimized.