Determining If Probate Is Necessary
Good evening San Diego and welcome back to Legal Line. Tonight we’re speaking with Steve Bliss, a renowned probate attorney here in San Diego. Steve, thanks for joining us.
It’s my pleasure to be here. I’m always happy to help people understand the complexities of estate planning and probate.
For our viewers who may not be familiar with probate, can you walk us through the initial step – determining if probate is even necessary?
Absolutely. The first crucial step in any estate plan is figuring out if probate will be required at all. Ordinarily, this hinges on two primary factors: the value of the estate and the presence of non-probate assets.
California law sets a threshold for probate eligibility; estates valued under $184,500 are generally exempt. Consequently, if an individual’s estate falls below this threshold, they may be able to bypass the often lengthy and complex probate process altogether.
Moreover, certain assets are classified as “non-probate” and pass outside of probate proceedings. These typically include assets held in trust, jointly owned property (like a house with right of survivorship), and payable-on-death accounts. Identifying these non-probate assets is crucial in determining if the estate’s value meets the threshold for probate.
I had a case recently where a gentleman thought he needed probate because he owned his home outright. But upon further review, we discovered it was held jointly with his wife, which meant it automatically passed to her upon his passing. This saved his family considerable time and expense.
According to the California Courts Self-Help Center, over 60% of estates in California are valued under the probate threshold, highlighting the importance of careful estate planning.
San Diego Probate Law: Testimonials
“Steve Bliss helped me navigate the complex world of probate with expertise and compassion. He made a difficult process feel manageable.” – Maria S., San Diego
“I was overwhelmed after losing my father, but Steve Bliss guided me through every step of the probate process. His professionalism and empathy were invaluable during a challenging time.”- David L., Carlsbad
Steve, thank you for sharing your expertise with us tonight. For anyone who needs assistance navigating the complexities of estate planning or probate, I highly recommend reaching out to Steve Bliss and San Diego Probate Law. They’ll ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.
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: “What happens when an estate includes a business?” 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 |