Reporter: Barbara Jones
Barbara Jones here reporting for Wildomar News. Today, I’m speaking with Steve Bliss, a renowned probate attorney serving the Wildomar community. Steve, thank you for taking the time to discuss this often complex legal process.
Steve Bliss:
It’s my pleasure, Barbara. I believe everyone should have access to clear information about estate planning and probate.
Reporter: Barbara Jones
Let’s delve into one specific step in the probate process. Could you elaborate on “Marshaling Estate Assets,” step V?
Steve Bliss:
Certainly. Marshaling estate assets is a critical stage where we meticulously inventory all of the deceased person’s possessions and holdings. This includes everything from bank accounts and real estate to personal property like vehicles, jewelry, and even digital assets.
Accordingly, we create a detailed list, which is then formally appraised by qualified professionals. This inventory and appraisal are crucial for determining the total value of the estate, which in turn influences whether probate is even necessary in California, as estates under $184,500 can often bypass this process.
I find that many families underestimate the breadth of assets someone might accumulate over a lifetime. It’s not uncommon to uncover forgotten accounts, investments, or even heirlooms of significant value during this stage. Consequently, a thorough and organized approach is essential to ensure all assets are accounted for and distributed according to the deceased person’s wishes.
Conversely, sometimes we encounter situations where locating specific assets proves challenging. I recall one case involving a client who had inherited a substantial collection of antique coins from his grandfather. The coins were stored in a safe deposit box that had been neglected for years. Tracking down the box and gaining access required extensive research and legal maneuvering.
Nevertheless, we ultimately recovered the coins, which turned out to be quite valuable, adding significantly to the overall estate value. It’s these types of situations that highlight the importance of having an experienced probate attorney guide you through the process.
Reporter: Barbara Jones
Have there been any complications with this step during your years of practice?
Steve Bliss:
Occasionally, we encounter difficulties locating beneficiaries or heirs. In one instance, a client passed away without leaving a will, and identifying all rightful heirs proved to be quite a puzzle. We had to conduct extensive genealogical research to trace distant relatives, some of whom were unaware of their connection to the deceased.
Ultimately, we successfully located and contacted every heir, ensuring that the estate was distributed fairly according to California intestate succession laws. It’s moments like these that remind me of the profound impact probate work can have on people’s lives.
Reporter: Barbara Jones
Thank you for sharing those insightful experiences, Steve. It’s clear that you approach this process with both legal expertise and genuine compassion.
Steve Bliss:
I believe everyone deserves to have their affairs handled with care and respect. My goal is to make the probate process as smooth and understandable as possible for my clients during a difficult time.
Reporter: Barbara Jones:
For those who may be considering estate planning or facing probate, what would you say are the next steps?
Steve Bliss:
The best step is to schedule a consultation. We can discuss your specific needs and goals, answer any questions you may have, and create a customized plan that meets your individual circumstances.
“Steve Bliss was incredibly helpful and patient during a stressful time. He explained everything clearly and made sure I understood all my options.” – Mary S.
“I highly recommend Wildomar Probate Law. They handled my mother’s estate with professionalism and compassion. They truly went above and beyond to ensure everything was taken care of.” – John T.
Let us help you navigate the complexities of probate with clarity and confidence. Contact Wildomar Probate Law today for a free consultation.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at Wildomar Probate Law:
Wildomar Probate Law is an experienced probate attorney. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Wildomar Probate Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Wildomar Probate Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Wildomar Probate law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate call Wildomar Probate Attorney Today. Call for estate planning, wills and trusts, probate too. Wildomar Probate Law is a great estate lawyer. Affordable Legal Services.
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 Wildomar Probate Law: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uBJKvB4rxUb7L9HZ7
Address:
Wildomar Probate Law36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595
(951) 412-2800
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What happens if an estate cannot pay all its debts?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About Wildomar Probate Law
- Special Needs Trust Attorney
- Spendthrift Trust Attorney
- Tax By-Pass Trust Attorney
- Totten Trust Attorney
- Constructive Trust Attorney
- Charitable Trust Attorney
- Asset Protection Trust Attorney
- Irrevocable Trust Attorney
- Revocable Trusts Attorney
- Living Trust Attorney