Meet Steve Bliss
Hello San Diego, I’m Tiffany Brown, a reporter for Channel 7 News. Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Steve Bliss, a highly respected probate attorney here in San Diego.
Probate: A Necessary Process
Steve, thanks for joining us today. Probate can be a confusing and overwhelming process for many people. Can you briefly explain what probate is and why it’s often necessary?
Thanks for having me, Tiffany. Probate is essentially the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This means identifying and valuing assets, paying off debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining assets to heirs or beneficiaries according to the will or state law if there isn’t a valid will.
Probate is often necessary when someone passes away owning property in their name alone. Ordinarily, this includes real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, and investments.
Handling Debts and Taxes
You mentioned paying off debts and taxes during probate. Can you elaborate on this step? What are some of the challenges involved?
Absolutely. Handling debts and taxes is a crucial part of the probate process. As executor or administrator, we have a legal responsibility to identify all valid creditor claims and ensure they are paid. This often involves reviewing financial records, communicating with creditors, and potentially negotiating settlements.
Consequently, it’s important to be thorough and organized during this stage. Failure to properly address debts could lead to personal liability for the executor or administrator. Moreover, we must also file and pay any applicable federal and state estate taxes.
Notwithstanding these challenges, a well-organized approach, utilizing clear communication with creditors and beneficiaries alike, can make this process smoother. Remember, it’s all about ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of the estate according to the deceased person’s wishes or the law.
It’s estimated that nearly 70% of estates require probate proceedings in California (California Courts of Appeal). This highlights the importance of understanding this process and seeking guidance from an experienced attorney like myself.
Real-Life Impacts
Steve, have you ever encountered any unique or challenging situations during the debt and tax phase of probate?
I recall one case where a client inherited a significant amount of real estate but faced substantial back taxes from previous years. The situation was complex as there were multiple parties involved and conflicting claims on the property.
We had to work diligently with the IRS, local tax authorities, and other stakeholders to negotiate a settlement that was fair to all parties. Ultimately, we were able to resolve the tax issues and ensure the client received their inheritance.
The relief they felt after years of uncertainty made it all worthwhile.
San Diego Probate Law: Your Trusted Partner
Steve, why should someone choose San Diego Probate Law for their probate needs?
“I chose San Diego Probate Law because they were so knowledgeable and compassionate during a difficult time. They explained everything clearly and made me feel supported throughout the entire process.” – Maria Rodriguez, Satisfied Client
“Steve Bliss is an exceptional probate attorney. He’s thorough, responsive, and always puts his clients’ best interests first. I highly recommend him to anyone facing probate matters.” – David Lee, Satisfied Client
At San Diego Probate Law, we are committed to providing our clients with compassionate and personalized legal guidance throughout the entire probate process. We understand that losing a loved one is already difficult, so we strive to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Let Us Help You
Take the first step toward navigating probate with confidence. Contact San Diego Probate Law today for a free consultation and let us help you honor your loved one’s legacy.
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 if the estate is very small — is probate still necessary?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About San Diego Probate Law
| Estate Attorney Near Me |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Estate Attorney Near Me California |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Estate Attorney Near Me |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| San Diego Estate Attorney Near Me |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Estate Attorney Near Me San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Credible Estate Attorney Near Me in San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |