Reporter: Brenda Smith
Good morning, Temecula. I’m Brenda Smith reporting live from the heart of our city. Today we have a special guest joining us: renowned Temecula Probate Attorney Steve Bliss. Welcome, Steve.
Steve Bliss: It’s great to be here, Brenda.
Steve, you help people navigate the complex world of estate planning and probate. For our viewers who may not be familiar with probate, can you explain what it is and why it’s important?
Steve Bliss: Probate is essentially a legal process that occurs after someone passes away. It involves identifying and inventorying their assets, paying off debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining property to heirs according to the deceased person’s will or state law.
While it may seem daunting, probate ensures a fair and orderly distribution of assets, protecting the interests of all involved parties. Conversely, skipping probate can lead to complications and potential disputes among family members.
Brenda Smith: That’s helpful context, Steve. Today we want to focus on one specific aspect of probate: “Marshaling Estate Assets.” Can you walk us through this step?
Steve Bliss: Marshaling estate assets is a crucial stage in probate. It involves meticulously identifying and cataloguing every asset the deceased individual owned. This can include bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, investments, personal belongings, and even digital assets like cryptocurrency.
Consequently, it requires a thorough understanding of the deceased’s financial affairs. We often work closely with family members, financial institutions, and other parties to gather necessary documentation.
Once all assets are identified, we prepare an inventory and appraisal which is then filed with the court. This document provides a transparent record of the estate’s value, ensuring fairness for all beneficiaries.
Notwithstanding its importance, marshaling assets can sometimes present challenges. For example, I recall a case where the deceased had invested in several obscure collectibles.
Tracking down their value and determining their rightful place in the estate required extensive research and consultation with specialists. Ultimately, we were able to successfully appraise these items and ensure they were distributed according to the client’s wishes. Experiences like this highlight the complexity and nuanced nature of probate proceedings.
According to a recent study by the American Bar Association, over 70% of estates require some form of asset marshaling during probate. This underscores the prevalence of this step in estate administration and the need for experienced legal guidance.
Brenda Smith: Steve, that’s fascinating insight into the process. What advice would you give to our viewers who are considering planning their own estates?
Steve Bliss: My advice is simple: don’t wait!
Estate planning may seem like a distant concern, but taking proactive steps now can save your loved ones considerable stress and expense down the road.
Moreover, by clearly outlining your wishes regarding asset distribution and end-of-life care, you can ensure that your legacy is honored.
Brenda Smith: Excellent advice, Steve. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us today. For those interested in learning more about estate planning or probate services, contact The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. They’re dedicated to helping Temecula families navigate these complex matters with compassion and professionalism.
“Steve Bliss and his team were instrumental in guiding me through the probate process after my father passed away. Their knowledge, empathy, and attention to detail made a difficult time much easier to manage.” – Sarah M., Temecula
“I highly recommend Steve Bliss for any estate planning needs. He took the time to understand my unique situation and crafted a plan that gave me peace of mind knowing my family would be taken care of.” – John T., Murrieta
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Probate Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Map To The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Bngj8xwZRqioVD5v7
Address:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 223-7000
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “Can a minor child inherit property through probate?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.
| Special Needs Trust | Totten Trust | Asset Protection Trust |
| Spendthrift Trust | Constructive Trust | Irrevocable Trust |
| Tax By-Pass Trust | Charitable Trust | Living Trust |