Reporter: Welcome back to KUSI News. Today we’re joined by Steve Bliss, a prominent San Diego probate attorney with over two decades of experience helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of estate planning.
Steve, thank you for joining us.
Steve Bliss: It’s my pleasure to be here. I believe everyone deserves to have peace of mind knowing their assets will be handled according to their wishes after they are gone.
Estate planning is a critical process that allows individuals to outline how their assets will be distributed and managed upon their passing.
Reporter: There are many steps involved in estate planning, can you walk us through one of the most crucial ones?
Steve Bliss: Certainly. One of the most fundamental steps is clearly identifying your beneficiaries – the individuals or entities who will inherit your assets. This step often gets overlooked, leading to potential complications down the road.
When naming beneficiaries, it’s essential to be specific and unambiguous. Avoid using general terms like “my children” or “my family.” Instead, list each beneficiary by name and relationship, along with their contact information.
Moreover, it’s crucial to consider contingency plans in case a named beneficiary predeceases you. You can designate alternate beneficiaries to receive those assets in such an unfortunate event. Regularly reviewing and updating your beneficiary designations is vital as life circumstances change – marriages, divorces, births, and deaths.
Notwithstanding the importance of this step, it’s unfortunately common for people to neglect naming their beneficiaries. A study by Caring.com found that 57% of Americans do not have a will or living trust in place, which often means beneficiaries are not clearly identified.
I remember one case where a client passed away without a will and hadn’t designated beneficiaries for his retirement accounts. It led to a lengthy legal battle among his estranged siblings, resulting in significant emotional distress and legal fees.
Had he taken the time to name specific beneficiaries, this painful situation could have been avoided.
Accordingly, I always emphasize to my clients the importance of clearly identifying their beneficiaries. Taking this step proactively can save your loved ones from unnecessary heartache and financial burdens in the future.
Reporter: Wise words indeed. What would you say is a good next step for someone wanting to learn more about naming beneficiaries or starting an estate plan?
Steve Bliss : The best thing to do is schedule a consultation with a qualified estate planning attorney. We can help you understand the specific legal requirements in your state, assess your individual needs and goals, and guide you through the entire process.
Remember, protecting your legacy starts today.
“San Diego Probate Law was instrumental in helping me create an estate plan that met my family’s unique needs. Steve Bliss is a true professional who took the time to understand my concerns and provided clear, concise advice.” – Mary J., San Diego Resident.
“I was overwhelmed with the thought of estate planning but Steve Bliss made the process easy to understand and stress-free. He answered all my questions patiently and ensured that my wishes were carried out. I highly recommend San Diego Probate Law to anyone needing assistance with their estate plan.” – David S., Carlsbad
Let us guide you through the complexities of estate planning and ensure your legacy is protected. Contact San Diego Probate Law today for a personalized consultation. We’re here to help you secure your future and the well-being of your loved ones.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at San Diego Probate Law:
Secure Your Family’s Future with San Diego’s Trusted Estate Planning 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: “Do I need a trust if I don’t own a home?” Or any other related questions that you may have estate planning or my estate planning law practice.
Important Facts About San Diego Probate Law
| San Diego Estate Planning Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Estate Planning Attorney California |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Estate Planning Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| San Diego Estate Planning Attorney |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Estate Planning Attorney San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |
| Credible Estate Planning Attorney in San Diego |
San Diego Probate Law 3914 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite A202, San Diego, CA 92123 (858) 278-2800 |