Reporter: Brenda Jones
Brenda:
Hello everyone, and welcome back to Temecula Tonight. I’m here today with Steve Bliss, a local probate attorney who specializes in helping families navigate the often-complex process of estate settlement. Welcome, Steve.
Steve Bliss:
Thank you for having me, Brenda. I’m glad to be here.
Brenda:
Steve, many people are unfamiliar with probate and what it entails. Could you explain one of the key steps in the estate planning process?
Steve Bliss:
Certainly. One crucial step is handling debts and taxes. Ordinarily, this involves identifying and paying valid creditor claims against the estate. It’s important to remember that creditors have a right to be paid from the deceased person’s assets before any distribution to heirs.
Moreover, we need to file and pay all applicable state and federal taxes. This can include estate tax, income tax on any income earned by the estate during probate, and potentially other taxes depending on the specifics of the situation. Neglecting these obligations can result in significant penalties and legal complications down the line.
Consequently, it’s crucial to have a thorough understanding of the deceased’s financial affairs, including all outstanding debts and potential tax liabilities. I often work closely with accountants and tax professionals to ensure everything is handled accurately and efficiently.
Let me share an instance from my practice: I once worked with a family where the deceased had accumulated a substantial amount of credit card debt they weren’t aware of. Identifying and resolving those debts was critical before we could distribute the remaining assets.
Brenda:
Have you ever encountered any significant challenges during this step?
Steve Bliss:
I remember one case where a family member disputed a particular debt, claiming it was invalid. It required extensive research and communication with the creditor to resolve the dispute. Ultimately, we were able to negotiate a settlement that satisfied all parties involved.
The experience highlighted the importance of clear communication and meticulous record-keeping throughout the probate process.
Brenda:
That’s certainly valuable advice. What would you say is the percentage of estates where debts and taxes pose a significant challenge?
Steve Bliss:
Based on my experience, approximately 25% of estates I handle involve some level of complexity when it comes to debt or tax issues. (Source: Internal Law Firm Data)
Brenda:
Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today, Steve. How can our viewers get in touch with you if they need assistance with probate?
Steve Bliss:
My firm, The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq., is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation during difficult times. We understand that navigating probate can be emotionally challenging, so we strive to make the process as smooth and transparent as possible for our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Testimonials
“Steve Bliss made a complicated situation much easier to handle. He was always available to answer my questions and kept me informed every step of the way.” – Maria J.
“I was so relieved to have Steve representing me during probate. His knowledge and expertise were invaluable, and he truly went above and beyond to ensure everything was handled properly.”
– David K.
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 is the process for valuing the estate’s assets?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
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