The old, yellowed document sat in the back of Sarah’s desk drawer, a relic from a time before her children were born, before she and her husband doubled their income, before they even bought their first house. She’d barely glanced at it since signing it ten years ago, assuming its contents were still relevant. After all, death was a distant concern for someone in their prime.
What Happens If I Die Without a Will?
Dying without a will, also known as dying “intestate,” can lead to unintended consequences and family disputes. State laws dictate how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes. Imagine Sarah passing away unexpectedly without updating her will. Her outdated document might leave everything to her parents, neglecting her children’s inheritance entirely. This could spark a bitter legal battle among family members, adding unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.
What are Common Reasons for Updating My Will?
“Life is constantly evolving,” explains Steve Bliss, a Temecula estate planning attorney. “Major life events often necessitate revisiting your will.” Some common triggers include marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of children, significant changes in assets (like inheriting property or starting a business), and relocation to a new state.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to review your beneficiary designations for retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other financial instruments to ensure they align with your current wishes.
Do I Need A Trust?
“Trusts offer additional control and flexibility,” notes Steve Bliss. “They can help minimize estate taxes, protect assets from creditors, and provide for beneficiaries with special needs.” For example, Sarah’s updated will could include a trust to ensure her children receive their inheritance gradually as they mature, rather than receiving a lump sum at age 18.
Can I Update My Will Myself?
While online templates exist, it’s highly recommended to seek legal counsel from an experienced estate planning attorney like Steve Bliss. Estate law is complex and varies by state. An attorney can ensure your will accurately reflects your intentions, adheres to legal requirements, and minimizes the risk of future challenges.
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:
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living trust
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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: “How can I make sure my children are taken care of if something happens to me?” Or “How do I find out if probate has been filed for someone who passed away?” or “Can retirement accounts be part of a living trust? and even: “What property is considered exempt in bankruptcy?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.