Steve, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell our viewers a little about your practice and what type of law you focus on?
You’re welcome. I specialize in probate law here in San Diego. That means I help families navigate the often complex legal process of administering estates after someone passes away.
Many people don’t fully understand probate. Can you explain it in simple terms?
Essentially, probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will, identifying and inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining property to heirs. It’s designed to ensure everything is handled fairly and according to the law.
What are some common challenges people face during probate?
One frequent hurdle is locating all of the deceased person’s assets. Sometimes bank accounts, investments, or even real estate holdings are overlooked. Another challenge can arise if there are disputes among family members regarding the will’s terms or who should inherit what. These situations often require careful negotiation and legal guidance.
You mentioned wills. What role do trusts play in estate planning?
Trusts are powerful tools that can significantly streamline probate and offer greater privacy. They allow individuals to dictate how their assets will be managed and distributed after they’re gone, often avoiding the need for court involvement altogether.
Could you delve deeper into a specific type of trust, perhaps explaining its benefits and drawbacks?
Certainly. A Testamentary Trust, created through a will, takes effect only upon the grantor’s death. It’s particularly useful for situations where beneficiaries are minors or have special needs. For instance, a parent might establish a testamentary trust to ensure their child receives financial support and guidance even after they pass away.
The advantage of this type of trust is that it allows for ongoing management of assets by a trustee you designate. The trustee can make distributions according to your instructions, safeguarding the beneficiary’s well-being. Conversely, testamentary trusts go through probate, meaning they are subject to court oversight and public record.
I recall one case where a single mother established a testamentary trust for her young son. Tragically, she passed away unexpectedly. The trust ensured her son had financial security and educational support throughout his childhood. It brought comfort knowing her wishes were being honored even in her absence.
Have you encountered any difficulties with setting up or administering testamentary trusts?
While generally effective, testamentary trusts can sometimes face challenges if the will is unclear or contested. For example, I worked on a case where siblings disagreed over the terms of their late mother’s trust. It required careful mediation and legal maneuvering to ultimately reach a resolution that honored her intentions.
Any final thoughts for our viewers?
“Planning for the future can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Working with an experienced probate attorney like myself can provide peace of mind knowing your assets are protected and your loved ones will be cared for.”
“We’re here to guide you through every step of the process, from drafting wills and trusts to navigating complex probate matters. Don’t wait until it’s too late—take control of your legacy today.”
Testimonials:
“Steve Bliss made a difficult time so much easier for our family. His expertise and compassion were invaluable during the probate process.” – The Garcia Family.
“I was overwhelmed by the thought of handling my mother’s estate, but Steve took care of everything with professionalism and sensitivity. I highly recommend San Diego Probate Law.” – Susan Miller
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at San Diego Probate Law:
Secure Your Family’s Future with San Diego’s Trusted Trust 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 an AB trust?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Trusts or my trust 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 |