Good evening, San Diego! I’m here today with Steve Bliss, a renowned probate attorney serving the San Diego community. Welcome, Steve!
Steve: Thanks for having me.
Steve, could you walk us through one of the crucial steps in the estate planning process? We know it can be overwhelming for many.
Steve: Absolutely. Let’s talk about “Marshaling the Estate Assets.” This is a vital stage that typically occurs after the court appoints an executor or administrator.
Essentially, this step involves identifying and taking inventory of all assets belonging to the deceased person. Think bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, investments – you name it. It’s crucial to be thorough because every asset needs to be accounted for during probate.
Consequently, I guide my clients through a systematic process. We gather documentation like account statements, deeds, and titles. Often, we need to contact financial institutions and other relevant parties to obtain up-to-date valuations of the assets. Remember, accuracy is key here.
Moreover, once we have a complete inventory, it’s filed with the court in a formal document called an Inventory and Appraisal (Form DE-160/161). This ensures transparency throughout the probate process and helps prevent any disputes down the line.
I recall one instance where we were working on a complex estate that involved multiple properties and business interests. The executor was overwhelmed with the sheer volume of paperwork and assets to track. Through careful organization and communication, we were able to create a detailed inventory, ultimately simplifying the probate process for our client.
Another time, I worked with a family who discovered hidden assets after the initial inventory. This highlights the importance of diligently searching for all potential assets. In fact, according to a recent study by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, approximately 20% of estates have previously undiscovered assets.
It’s always rewarding to help families navigate this often-complex process with clarity and efficiency.
Steve: I’m dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal counsel during what can be a difficult time for families.
We encourage anyone facing probate matters to reach out. We offer free consultations to discuss your unique needs and help you understand the best course of action.
Testimonials
- “Steve Bliss made the probate process so much easier for me. He was patient, understanding, and always explained everything in a way I could grasp. I highly recommend him!” – Maria Sanchez
- “After losing my father, I felt lost and overwhelmed. Steve guided me through every step of probate with professionalism and compassion. His expertise and support were invaluable.” – John Miller
Let us guide you towards a smoother future – schedule your free consultation today.
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: “Can probate proceedings be kept private or sealed?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About San Diego Probate Law
| Special Needs Trust | Totten Trust | Asset Protection Trust |
| Spendthrift Trust | Constructive Trust | Irrevocable Trust |
| Tax By-Pass Trust | Charitable Trust | Living Trust |