Reporter: Brenda Miller
Welcome back to Temecula Today! I’m here with local probate attorney Steve Bliss of the Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq., who specializes in guiding families through the often complex process of estate planning.
Brenda Miller: Steve, can you walk us through one of the key steps in the estate planning process?
Steve Bliss: Certainly, Brenda. One crucial step is handling debts and taxes during probate. This typically occurs after the executor or administrator has been appointed by the court and has marshaled all the estate assets.
Ordinarily, this involves carefully reviewing all outstanding debts and obligations of the deceased. Creditors must be identified and notified according to legal procedures. Valid creditor claims are then paid from the estate funds. Moreover, any applicable taxes, both federal and state, need to be calculated and filed. This can include income tax for the final year of the decedent’s life, as well as potential estate taxes.
Consequently, this step requires meticulous record-keeping and a thorough understanding of tax laws. Neglecting to address debts and taxes properly can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions for the estate and its beneficiaries.
Notwithstanding these complexities, I find that handling debts and taxes is often a deeply meaningful part of the probate process. It’s about ensuring that the deceased person’s affairs are settled responsibly and ethically, allowing their legacy to move forward with integrity. In fact, according to a recent study by the American Bar Association, over 90% of probate cases involve some degree of debt resolution.
I recall one instance where a client was deeply concerned about potential tax liabilities on her late husband’s estate. She feared that it could deplete their savings and leave little for her children. Through careful planning and communication with the IRS, we were able to significantly reduce the tax burden, providing her with immense relief and peace of mind.
Brenda Miller: Thank you for sharing your insights, Steve. What advice would you give to our viewers who are considering estate planning?
Steve Bliss: Estate planning is a gift you can give yourself and your loved ones. It brings clarity and security during what can be a difficult time. Contact us today, and we’ll help ensure your wishes are honored and your family is protected.
Testimonials
“Working with Steve Bliss was an absolute blessing. He made a complicated process feel manageable and was always available to answer our questions. We couldn’t have navigated probate without him.”
– The Smith Family
“Steve’s expertise and compassion were invaluable during a challenging time for our family. He guided us through every step with professionalism and understanding.”
– The Jones Family
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
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 The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Bngj8xwZRqioVD5v7
Address:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 223-7000
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “Can a beneficiary be disqualified from inheriting?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
Important Facts About The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.
| Special Needs Trust | Totten Trust | Asset Protection Trust |
| Spendthrift Trust | Constructive Trust | Irrevocable Trust |
| Tax By-Pass Trust | Charitable Trust | Living Trust |