Good morning, Temecula! I’m Brenda Jones with Channel 7 News, and today we’re talking probate with local attorney Steve Bliss. Mr. Bliss specializes in estate planning and probate law, helping families navigate this often complex process.
Understanding Probate
Mr. Bliss, can you tell our viewers what probate is and why it’s sometimes necessary?
“Probate is essentially the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate,” explains Mr. Bliss. “It involves identifying and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining property to beneficiaries according to the will or state law.” He continues, “Not every estate requires probate. If the total value of the assets is below a certain threshold – currently $184,500 in California – it may be possible to avoid probate altogether through methods like joint ownership or establishing a trust.”
The Importance of Inventorying Assets
Mr. Bliss, you mentioned valuing assets. Can you elaborate on that step and why it’s crucial?
“One of the key steps in probate is what we call ‘marshaling the estate assets,'” says Mr. Bliss. “This involves creating a comprehensive inventory of everything the deceased person owned – bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, investments, personal property – essentially anything of value.” He pauses thoughtfully. “This step is crucial because it ensures that all assets are accounted for and distributed fairly among beneficiaries. It also helps us determine if the estate is subject to federal estate taxes.”
He goes on to explain, “Ordinarily, a professional appraiser may be needed to accurately assess the value of certain assets, particularly real estate or complex financial instruments. This detailed inventory becomes part of the court record and serves as a roadmap for the entire probate process.”
“I recall one case where a client had no idea their loved one owned a valuable collection of antique coins,” Mr. Bliss shares, his voice tinged with empathy. “Discovering this hidden asset allowed us to significantly increase the inheritance for the beneficiaries. It highlights how thorough asset inventory can sometimes uncover unexpected treasures.”
According to the American Bar Association, approximately 2 million probate cases are filed in the United States each year. Consequently, the need for experienced legal guidance during this process is paramount.
Seeking Expert Guidance
“If you’re facing the loss of a loved one and need assistance navigating probate, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced attorney,” advises Mr. Bliss. “The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is here to provide compassionate and knowledgeable support every step of the way.”
“I highly recommend Steve Bliss and his team,” says a grateful client, Susan M. “They handled my mother’s estate with professionalism and sensitivity during a difficult time. I couldn’t have asked for better representation.”
Another satisfied client, John S., adds, “Steve Bliss made the probate process clear and understandable. He answered all my questions patiently and kept me informed throughout. It gave me peace of mind knowing my family’s affairs were in good hands.”
Let us help you honor your loved one’s legacy. Contact The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. today for a confidential consultation. We are here to guide you through every stage of the probate process with care and expertise.
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: “What are the penalties for mishandling probate funds?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
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