Reporter:
Hello, and welcome back to “San Diego Legal Matters.” Today we are joined by Steve Bliss, a highly regarded probate attorney here in San Diego. Mr. Bliss, thank you for joining us.
Steve Bliss:
It’s my pleasure to be here. I’m always happy to discuss estate planning and help people understand its importance.
Reporter:
For our viewers who may not be familiar with the term, can you briefly explain what probate is?
Steve Bliss:
Certainly. Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This involves identifying and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing remaining property to heirs according to a will or state law if there isn’t a will.
Reporter:
That sounds like a complex process. What are some common strategies people use to avoid probate?
Steve Bliss:
One of the most effective ways to avoid probate is through the establishment of a Revocable Living Trust.
A Revocable Living Trust allows individuals, known as grantors, to place assets into the trust during their lifetime. They maintain control over these assets and can make changes to the trust as needed.
Consequently, upon the grantor’s death, the assets held within the trust are distributed according to the grantor’s instructions without going through the probate process.
Moreover, a Revocable Living Trust provides privacy, as the terms of the trust are not part of public record unlike a will that is filed with the court during probate.
This can be an important consideration for individuals who value discretion and want to keep their financial affairs confidential.
Reporter:
That’s fascinating. Have you encountered any challenges or complexities while helping clients set up Revocable Living Trusts?
Steve Bliss:
While Revocable Living Trusts are generally straightforward, there can be situations where careful planning is crucial. For example, I once worked with a couple who owned a successful family business. They wanted to ensure the business remained in the family’s hands after they were gone.
We structured their trust to include specific provisions for succession planning, outlining how ownership and management of the business would transfer to their children. It was a complex undertaking, but ultimately we were able to create a plan that protected both their legacy and the future of their business.
Remember, approximately 70% of Americans die without a valid estate plan, according to Caring.com (2023).
Reporter:
That’s a sobering statistic. What advice would you give to our viewers today regarding estate planning?
Steve Bliss:
My advice is simple: don’t wait. Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly. Everyone, regardless of age or income level, can benefit from having a plan in place.
Start by identifying your assets and liabilities. Consider who you want to inherit your property and who you would like to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
And most importantly, seek professional guidance. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you create a plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
Reporter:
That’s excellent advice. Where can our viewers learn more about San Diego Probate Law and the services they offer?
Steve Bliss:
You can visit our website at [website address] or call us directly at [phone number]. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to our clients.
“I was so overwhelmed after my father passed away. Steve Bliss and his team made the probate process so much easier to understand and navigate. They were always there to answer my questions and provide support.” – Mary S.
“San Diego Probate Law helped me create a trust that protected my assets and ensured that my wishes would be carried out. I highly recommend their services to anyone who wants peace of mind knowing their estate is in order.” – John T.
Your future and your family’s legacy are worth protecting. Empower yourself with knowledge and take the first step towards securing your tomorrow. Let San Diego Probate Law guide you through the complexities of estate planning.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at San Diego Probate Law:
Secure Your Family’s Future with San Diego’s Trusted Trust 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: “What is the role of a successor trustee after I die?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Trusts or my trust law practice.
Important Facts About San Diego Probate Law
| San Diego Totten Trust Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Totten Trust Attorney San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Totten Trust Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Totten Trust Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Totten Trust San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Credible Totten Trust Attorney in San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |