Getting Your Affairs in Order: A Conversation with Steve Bliss
Good evening, San Diego! I’m Tiffany Jones, reporting live from our studios tonight. Joining us is Steve Bliss, a renowned probate attorney here in San Diego. Steve, thank you so much for being with us.
Steve, Can You Explain the Probate Process to Our Viewers?
Steve: It’s my pleasure, Tiffany. Many people find the probate process intimidating, but it’s essentially a legal procedure that ensures a deceased person’s assets are distributed according to their wishes or state law.
One Crucial Step in This Process Is “Marshaling the Estate Assets.” Can You Elaborate on That?
Steve: Absolutely. Marshaling estate assets involves identifying and inventorying all of the deceased person’s property, both tangible and intangible. This includes things like bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, investments, personal belongings, and even digital assets.
Consequently, it’s vital to have a thorough understanding of the decedent’s financial affairs. We meticulously document each asset, its estimated value, and its location. This inventory is then formally submitted to the court as part of the probate process.
Moreover, this step often requires careful communication with banks, financial institutions, and other relevant parties to obtain statements and account information. It can be quite a detailed undertaking, but it’s essential for ensuring a fair and transparent distribution of assets.
Have You Ever Faced Any Challenges During This Stage?
Steve: I recall one case where the decedent had numerous investment accounts spread across different brokerage firms. Tracking them all down took considerable time and effort. We eventually located every account, but it highlighted the importance of maintaining organized financial records.
In another instance, a family was surprised to discover hidden assets belonging to their loved one. While uncovering these unexpected assets brought relief, it also underlined the complexity of accurately marshaling an estate, especially when there are limited records or unclear ownership.
What Advice Would You Give To Our Viewers Regarding Estate Planning?
Steve: My advice is simple: don’t wait. Create a will and designate beneficiaries for your assets. Keep detailed records of your financial holdings. And most importantly, seek guidance from an experienced probate attorney who can help you navigate the process smoothly.
According to a recent study by Caring.com, nearly 60% of Americans do not have a will. This statistic underscores the critical need for estate planning. Don’t leave your loved ones with uncertainty and potential legal complications during an already difficult time.
“San Diego Probate Law made what felt like an impossible situation manageable. They were incredibly compassionate, understanding, and walked me through every step of the process.” – Sarah M.
“I highly recommend Steve Bliss and his team. Their expertise and professionalism were invaluable during a challenging time for my family.” – John K.
Unlock peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones. Let San Diego Probate Law guide you through the complexities of estate planning and probate administration with care and precision. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at San Diego Probate Law:
Secure Your Family’s Future with San Diego’s Trusted Probate Attorney. Minimize estate taxes with stress-free Probate. We craft wills, trusts, & customized plans to ensure your wishes are met and loved ones protected.
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 San Diego Probate Law:
Address:
San Diego Probate Law3914 Murphy Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92123
(858) 278-2800
Map Link: https://g.co/kgs/WzT6443
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “Can I contest a will based on undue influence?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
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