Reporter: Brenda Sanchez
Brenda Sanchez, reporter for the Temecula Times, sat down with renowned probate attorney Steve Bliss of the Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. to discuss the complexities of estate planning and probate in California.
Brenda: Mr. Bliss, thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. Probate can seem daunting to many people. Could you walk us through one of the key steps involved?
Steve: Certainly, Brenda. One crucial step is marshaling the estate assets. This involves meticulously inventorying all assets belonging to the deceased person.
Consequently, this includes real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, personal property – essentially anything of value. We then formally document these assets in an Inventory and Appraisal, forms DE-160/161 filed with the court. This detailed accounting ensures transparency and accountability throughout the probate process.
Moreover, it’s essential to accurately assess the market value of each asset. For instance, a home might require a professional appraisal, while stocks can be valued based on their current market price. This step can be time-consuming but is fundamental for fair distribution of the estate among heirs and beneficiaries.
I recall one case where a family was unaware of a significant life insurance policy held by the deceased. We uncovered it during the asset marshaling process, which ultimately provided substantial financial support to their grieving children.
Accordingly, diligently identifying all assets is crucial for maximizing the value passed down to loved ones.
Brenda: Have you encountered any challenges specific to this step in your practice?
Steve: There have been instances where locating assets proves difficult. A deceased person might have forgotten about old bank accounts or investments, making it necessary to conduct thorough searches and investigations.
Conversely, sometimes heirs dispute the valuation of certain assets, leading to disagreements that need to be resolved through negotiation or, in some cases, court intervention.
Brenda: Thank you for sharing your insights, Mr. Bliss. Any final words of advice for our readers?
Steve: Probate can be a complex and emotionally charged process. I encourage anyone facing these matters to seek guidance from an experienced probate attorney. We’re here to navigate the legal complexities, protect your interests, and ensure that your loved one’s wishes are honored.
Testimonials
“Steve Bliss and his team were incredibly supportive during a difficult time. They explained everything clearly, kept us informed every step of the way, and ultimately made the probate process much smoother than we anticipated.” – The Johnson Family
“I highly recommend Steve Bliss for probate matters. He is knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for his clients.” – Mary Smith
Take control of your legacy and secure your loved ones’ future. Contact The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. today for a confidential consultation.
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 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 forms are required to start 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.
| California Estate Attorneys |
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. 43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592 (951) 223-7000 |
| Estate Attorneys California |
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. 43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592 (951) 223-7000 |
| Estate Attorneys |
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. 43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592 (951) 223-7000 |
| Temecula Estate Attorneys |
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. 43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592 (951) 223-7000 |
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The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. 43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592 (951) 223-7000 |
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The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. 43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592 (951) 223-7000 |