Escondido Attorney Explains Key Steps in Estate Settlement
Welcome back to Escondido Today! I’m here with local attorney, Steve Bliss, an expert in probate law. Steve, thanks for joining us today.
Understanding the Probate Process: Filing a Petition
Steve, can you walk our viewers through one of the key steps involved in the probate process?
The Crucial Role of Filing a Petition
Certainly. One of the most critical early steps is filing a petition for probate with the county court. This officially initiates the legal process of administering the deceased person’s estate.
To begin, you’ll need to file Form DE-111 with the appropriate court. In this petition, you’ll formally request to be appointed as either the executor (if there’s a will) or administrator (if there isn’t a will) of the estate.
It’s essential to include a copy of the original will, if one exists, along with your petition. The court will review your petition and schedule a hearing to determine if you are qualified to manage the estate. Consequently, having all necessary documentation prepared beforehand can expedite this process.
Challenges Faced: Real-World Examples
Steve, have you encountered any particular challenges or complexities when it comes to filing probate petitions?
Over the years, I’ve seen situations where locating a valid will proved difficult. Sometimes families are unaware of its whereabouts, or the original document may have been lost or damaged. In such cases, we often need to conduct extensive searches and potentially seek legal guidance on establishing testamentary intent without a physical will.
I recall one instance where a family believed their father had a will but couldn’t find it. After thorough research, we discovered he had actually verbally expressed his wishes to a trusted friend years ago. While verbal wills are generally not recognized, in this specific case, the circumstances and consistent witness testimony allowed us to proceed with administering the estate according to his expressed desires.
The Importance of Legal Expertise
According to a study by the American Bar Association, approximately 30% of estates require probate. This highlights the prevalence of this legal process and the need for expert guidance.
Let Us Help You Navigate Probate
Steve Bliss and the Escondido Probate Law team are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal assistance during challenging times. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the complexities of probate with ease and understanding.
Testimonials
“Escondido Probate Law made a difficult situation so much easier. They were incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and supportive throughout the entire process. I highly recommend their services.”
– Sarah M., Escondido
“Steve Bliss is an exceptional attorney who truly cares about his clients. He took the time to explain everything clearly and guided me through every step of probate with professionalism and empathy.”
– John T., San Marcos
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at Escondido Probate Law:
Escondido Probate Law is an experienced probate attorney. The probate process has many steps in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Escondido Probate Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Escondido Probate Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Escondido Probate law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate call Escondido Probate Attorney Today. Call for estate planning, wills and trusts, probate too. Escondido Probate Law is a great estate lawyer. Affordable Legal Services.
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 Escondido Probate Law: https://maps.app.goo.gl/77Dm2B8W9XkM5YvJA
Address:
Escondido Probate Law720 N Broadway #107, Escondido, CA 92025
(760) 884-4044
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “Is mediation available for probate disputes?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.
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