Reporter: Barbara Jenkins
Today we’re speaking with Steve Bliss, a renowned probate attorney serving the Wildomar community. Steve, thanks for taking the time to speak with us.
Steve Bliss:
My pleasure, Barbara. It’s always good to help people understand this complex process.
Reporter: Barbara Jenkins
For our readers who may be unfamiliar with probate, could you briefly explain what it is and why someone might need it?
Steve Bliss:
Probate is essentially the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. It involves identifying and valuing assets, paying off debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining property to heirs or beneficiaries according to the will or state law. Not everyone needs probate; for instance, if a person has a living trust in place, their assets can often bypass probate altogether.
Reporter: Barbara Jenkins
That’s helpful context. Today we want to focus on one particular step in the probate process. Steve, could you walk us through “Marshaling the Estate Assets?”
Steve Bliss:
Certainly. Marshaling estate assets is a crucial early stage where we meticulously inventory all of the deceased person’s property. This includes everything from bank accounts and real estate to personal belongings, investments, and even digital assets. We then obtain appraisals for these items to determine their current market value.
This step is vital because it lays the foundation for accurately calculating the total value of the estate. Having a comprehensive inventory also helps us identify potential issues early on, such as missing titles or outstanding debts.
Consequently, we file an Inventory and Appraisal with the probate court. This document provides a transparent record of all assets subject to probate administration.
According to the California Courts Self-Help Center, over 90% of probate cases involve some form of asset marshaling. It’s truly fundamental to ensuring a smooth and efficient probate process.
Once, I worked with a family whose deceased father had been a collector of antique coins. While they knew he had a collection, they were unaware of its true extent or value. Through careful research and consultation with experts, we were able to document and appraise the collection, which turned out to be worth significantly more than anyone anticipated. This ultimately allowed the family to receive a larger inheritance than they initially expected.
Reporter: Barbara Jenkins
That’s a heartwarming story. Steve, have you encountered any challenges specifically during the asset marshaling phase?
Steve Bliss
Of course, every case presents its own unique set of circumstances. Sometimes, locating all assets can be a complex puzzle, especially if the deceased person didn’t maintain thorough records.
In one instance, I was handling the probate for an individual who had owned several properties but hadn’t formally registered them in their name. It took considerable time and effort to track down the deeds and establish clear ownership. Nevertheless, through diligent research and collaboration with title companies, we were able to successfully identify and include these assets in the estate.
Reporter: Barbara Jenkins
Thanks for sharing those insights. Steve, what advice would you give to readers who are facing probate or considering estate planning?
Steve Bliss
My strongest recommendation is to consult with an experienced probate attorney as early as possible. Estate planning can seem daunting, but a knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the process, help you understand your options, and ensure that your wishes are properly documented.
Remember, taking proactive steps now can save your loved ones from unnecessary stress and complications down the road. Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to support you every step of the way.
“Steve Bliss and Wildomar Probate Law made a difficult time so much easier for my family. They were incredibly knowledgeable, compassionate, and always available to answer our questions.” – The Smith Family
“I highly recommend Steve Bliss. He is a true expert in probate law and handled my case with the utmost professionalism and care.” – Jane Doe
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 is the timeline for distributing assets to beneficiaries?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About Wildomar Probate Law
| California Charitable Trust Attorney |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Charitable Trust Attorney California |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Charitable Trust Attorney |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Wildomar Charitable Trust Attorney |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Charitable Trust Wildomar |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |
| Credible Charitable Trust Attorney in Wildomar |
Wildomar Probate Law 36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595 (951) 412-2800 |