Meet Steve Bliss
Good afternoon, San Diego! I’m Brenda Ramirez reporting live for Channel 7 News. Today we have the pleasure of speaking with renowned San Diego Probate Attorney Steve Bliss. Welcome to the show, Steve.
Probate: A Necessary Process
Steve, can you tell our viewers a little bit about what probate is and why it’s often necessary after someone passes away?
Thank you for having me, Brenda. Probate is essentially the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This involves identifying and valuing assets, paying off debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining property to heirs or beneficiaries according to the deceased person’s will or state intestacy laws.
Choosing the Right Executor
One crucial step in the probate process is selecting an executor. Can you elaborate on the importance of this decision and what factors people should consider when choosing an executor?
Absolutely. The executor plays a vital role in managing the estate, ensuring that all legal requirements are met, and acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries. Consequently, it’s essential to choose someone trustworthy, organized, and capable of handling financial matters.
Moreover, consider factors like the executor’s proximity to the deceased person’s assets, their willingness to take on the responsibility, and any potential conflicts of interest. Remember, this is a significant undertaking, and having a responsible executor can make the entire process much smoother.
Dealing with Debts and Taxes
Steve, many people are understandably concerned about the financial implications of probate. Can you shed some light on how debts and taxes are handled during this process?
That’s a common worry, Brenda. Ordinarily, the executor is responsible for identifying all outstanding debts and liabilities of the deceased person. This includes credit card bills, loans, mortgages, and unpaid taxes.
Once these debts are identified, the executor must prioritize paying them off from the estate assets. According to a recent study by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, approximately 70% of estates involve some form of debt repayment during probate.
After settling debts, any remaining taxes owed by the deceased person are also paid from the estate.
It’s crucial to remember that the executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and ensure all financial obligations are met fairly and transparently.
I once had a client whose father passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a substantial amount of credit card debt. The client was overwhelmed with grief and anxiety about inheriting this debt. Through careful analysis and negotiation with creditors, we were able to significantly reduce the outstanding balance, providing much-needed relief for my client during a difficult time.
Closing Thoughts
Steve, thank you so much for sharing your expertise with us today. For our viewers who may be navigating probate or need legal guidance, where can they turn?
“At San Diego Probate Law, we understand the emotional and complex nature of probate. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to help families through this challenging process. We offer free consultations to discuss your individual needs and explore the best course of action for your situation.”
Testimonials
“Steve Bliss and his team at San Diego Probate Law were invaluable during a very difficult time in my life. They were patient, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. I highly recommend their services.”
– Sarah M., Satisfied Client
“I was incredibly impressed with the professionalism and efficiency of San Diego Probate Law. They guided me through every step of the probate process with clarity and compassion. Thank you for making a stressful situation so much easier.”
– John S., Grateful Client
Let Steve Bliss and the dedicated team at San Diego Probate Law guide you through this journey with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support. Contact them today to schedule your free consultation and gain peace of mind during this sensitive time.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at San Diego Probate Law:
Secure Your Family’s Future with San Diego’s Trusted Probate 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 required to close a probate case?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About San Diego Probate Law
| California Asset Protection Trust Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Asset Protection Trust Attorney California |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Asset Protection Trust Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| San Diego Asset Protection Trust Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Asset Protection Trust Attorney San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Credible Asset Protection Trust Attorney in San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |