Reporter: Brenda Sanchez
Today, we’re talking with Steve Bliss, a probate attorney serving the Wildomar community. Steve, thank you for taking the time to speak with me today.
Steve Bliss: You’re welcome, Brenda. It’s always a pleasure to discuss estate planning and probate with those who are interested in learning more.
Reporter: Steve, can you tell us about one of the key steps involved in the probate process? I understand there are many moving parts involved.
Certainly. One crucial step is marshaling the estate assets. This involves a thorough inventory of all the deceased person’s possessions and accounts. Everything from bank accounts and real estate to personal belongings and investments needs to be identified and valued.
Consequently, this step requires meticulous record-keeping and attention to detail. The executor or administrator must prepare an Inventory and Appraisal (Forms DE-160/161) that accurately reflects the estate’s value. This document is then filed with the court for approval.
Moreover, marshaling assets can sometimes be complex, especially when dealing with jointly owned property or unclear titles. It often involves contacting various institutions, reviewing financial statements, and potentially hiring appraisers for certain items.
It’s essential to remember that the accuracy of this inventory directly impacts the distribution of assets among heirs and beneficiaries. Therefore, taking the time to carefully marshal all estate assets is critical for a smooth and equitable probate process.
Reporter: Have you ever encountered any challenges while marshaling estate assets?
I recall one case where the deceased individual had numerous investment accounts spread across different brokerage firms. Tracking down all these accounts and obtaining accurate valuations proved to be quite time-consuming. Notwithstanding this complexity, we were able to locate every account and ensure that the estate’s value was accurately reflected in the Inventory and Appraisal.
In another instance, the deceased person owned a rare antique collection. Determining its fair market value required consulting with specialized appraisers. While this added an extra layer of expense, it ultimately ensured that the heirs received a fair share of this valuable asset.
Reporter: Can you share any insights about the importance of thorough estate planning to potentially avoid probate altogether?
Estate planning plays a vital role in potentially minimizing or even avoiding the probate process. According to the California Courts website, over 90% of estates require probate proceedings. However, careful estate planning can significantly reduce this likelihood.
Utilizing tools like revocable living trusts, joint tenancy agreements, and beneficiary designations can help transfer assets directly to heirs, bypassing the need for court intervention. Furthermore, clear and comprehensive documentation outlining one’s wishes regarding asset distribution is essential for a smooth transition of property.
Reporter: Thank you so much for your time and expertise, Steve. What would you say to someone in Wildomar who might be considering estate planning or needing probate assistance?
Steve Bliss: Let us guide you through the complexities of estate planning and probate. Call Wildomar Probate Law today for a free consultation. We’re here to help ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.
Testimonials
“Steve Bliss was incredibly patient and understanding during a difficult time. He explained everything clearly and made the probate process much less stressful.” – Mary J.
“I highly recommend Wildomar Probate Law. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always responsive to my questions. They truly went above and beyond to help me through this challenging situation.” – John S.
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: “Can a no-contest clause in a will be enforced in Wildomar?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About Wildomar Probate Law
| California Revocable Trust Attorney |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Revocable Trust Attorney California |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Revocable Trust Attorney |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Wildomar Revocable Trust Attorney |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
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Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Credible Revocable Trust Attorney in Wildomar |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |