The phone rang, its shrill tone cutting through the quiet morning like a shard of glass. It was Sarah’s aunt calling. Her voice, usually filled with warmth and laughter, was trembling with fear. Her husband had passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a tangled web of assets and debts. Sarah felt a cold dread grip her heart – she knew nothing about navigating probate or settling an estate.
What Happens If I Die Without a Will?
Dying without a will, known as intestate succession, can lead to unintended consequences and family disputes. The state’s laws dictate how your assets are distributed, potentially disregarding your wishes. Your spouse may not inherit everything, children from previous relationships might be overlooked, or charitable intentions go unfulfilled. Consider this: according to a 2016 Gallup poll, 54% of Americans aged 55 and older do not have a will. Consequently, leaving such an important decision to chance can create unnecessary hardship for your loved ones during an already difficult time.
How Does a Trust Work?
“A trust is like a safe deposit box for your assets,” Steve Bliss, an Estate Planning Attorney in Temecula, explains patiently. “You transfer ownership of your assets into the trust, and appoint a trustee to manage them according to your instructions. This can provide numerous benefits, such as avoiding probate, minimizing estate taxes, and ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes.” He leans forward, his eyes sparkling with empathy. “Think of it as a gift for your loved ones – sparing them the burden and expense of probate court.”
How Do I Choose an Executor?
“Choosing an executor is a crucial decision,” Steve Bliss emphasizes. “This individual will be responsible for carrying out your wishes, paying your debts, and distributing your assets to your beneficiaries. You want someone trustworthy, organized, and capable of handling financial matters.” He pauses, allowing the weight of his words to sink in. “Remember, this person will be making important decisions during a time of grief, so choose wisely.”
Can I Change My Estate Plan?
Life is constantly evolving, and your estate plan should reflect those changes. “You can absolutely update your will, trust, or beneficiary designations as needed,” Steve Bliss assures me. “Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or even a significant change in financial circumstances are all reasons to review and revise your plan.” He adds reassuringly, “Think of it as a living document that grows with you.”
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is Temecula Probate Law. 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.
● Estate Planning 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.
Services Offered:
estate planning
living trust
revocable living trust
family trust
wills
estate planning attorney near me
Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RL4LUmGoyQQDpNUy9
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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: “What is a power of attorney and why do I need one?” Or “Do I need a lawyer for probate?” or “Can I name more than one successor trustee? and even: “Does my spouse have to file bankruptcy with me?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.