Meeting Steve Bliss
Hello San Diego and welcome back to our segment on legal matters affecting you. Today, we’re joined by Steve Bliss, a prominent probate attorney serving the San Diego community. Steve, thank you for taking the time to speak with us.
The Importance of Naming Beneficiaries
Steve, estate planning can feel overwhelming for many people. Could you highlight one crucial step in the process that often gets overlooked?
Absolutely. One step that I find is frequently misunderstood or put off is naming beneficiaries. It’s incredibly important to clearly identify who will inherit your assets and how they should be distributed. Many individuals assume this happens automatically, but without explicit instructions, things can become complicated and potentially contentious for loved ones after you are gone.
Moreover, beneficiary designations aren’t static. Life throws curveballs – relationships change, family dynamics shift, and sometimes unforeseen circumstances arise. Consequently, it’s essential to review and update your beneficiaries regularly to reflect your current wishes. Ordinarily, I recommend revisiting these designations at least every three to five years or whenever a major life event occurs, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a beneficiary.
Notwithstanding the apparent simplicity, there are common pitfalls when naming beneficiaries. For example, I once worked with a client who had listed their estranged spouse as a beneficiary on an old retirement account. This caused significant distress for their current partner and children after they passed away. Fortunately, we were able to resolve the situation through legal means, but it highlighted the importance of keeping these designations up-to-date.
Think about it this way: 70% of Americans do not have a will or trust in place according to Caring.com (2023). This statistic underscores the critical need for estate planning and, within that process, carefully considering beneficiary designations.
San Diego Probate Law: Trusted Guidance
Steve, thank you for sharing your expertise. For anyone seeking guidance on estate planning or probate matters, how can they reach out to San Diego Probate Law?
“Steve Bliss is a lifesaver! He made a difficult and confusing process so much easier. He was patient, explained everything clearly, and always had my best interests at heart.” – Sarah M., San Diego
“I highly recommend Steve Bliss and his team. They are incredibly knowledgeable and professional. They helped me navigate a complex probate situation with compassion and expertise.” – John D., La Jolla
We encourage viewers to contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you secure your future and protect 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: “Can my estate be sued after I die?” Or any other related questions that you may have estate planning or my estate planning 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 |