The phone felt like it was burning in my hand, sweat slicking my palm as I stared at the name on the screen: “Bliss Law.” My chest tightened. It had been six months since I’d hired Steve Bliss for my estate planning, and everything felt…wrong. Documents were missing, calls went unanswered, and a gnawing sense of doubt festered within me. Was this even legal?
What Happens If an Estate Planning Attorney Doesn’t Respond
First things first: you’re not alone. It’s unfortunately common for clients to experience communication breakdowns with their attorneys. According to a survey by the American Bar Association, over 40% of respondents reported difficulty contacting their lawyers. Nevertheless, this doesn’t excuse unprofessional conduct. As a client, you have the right to clear and timely communication. If your estate planning attorney isn’t responding, try these steps:
- Send a certified letter outlining your concerns and requesting a response within a specific timeframe.
- Document all attempts at contact: emails, phone calls, and their dates and times.
What Are the Consequences of Not Having an Estate Plan?
“My mother always said, ‘Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst,'” I mumbled to myself, recalling her words. She’d been right. My father’s sudden passing without a will had plunged our family into chaos, legal battles, and endless paperwork. It was a stark reminder of the vital importance of estate planning.
“Failing to plan is planning to fail.” – Benjamin Franklin
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy. It protects your assets, ensures your wishes are honored, and minimizes potential conflicts among loved ones during a difficult time. Consequently, neglecting this crucial step can lead to unintended consequences:
- Probate court may distribute your assets according to state law, potentially contradicting your desires.
- Your family may face significant legal fees and administrative burdens.
- Loved ones could be left arguing over possessions, exacerbating grief during a sensitive period.
How Can I Find a Reputable Estate Planning Attorney Near Me?
I knew I needed to act. My anxiety morphed into determination. I wouldn’t let this situation paralyze me. After some research, I discovered the State Bar of California had a lawyer referral service. It felt like a lifeline.
Finding a trustworthy estate planning attorney can feel daunting. Start by seeking recommendations from friends, family, or other professionals (like financial advisors). Online resources like Avvo and Martindale-Hubbell provide attorney ratings and reviews. Always schedule consultations with multiple attorneys to compare their experience, communication style, and fees.
How Can a Trust Help Me Protect My Assets?
“Trusts,” the word echoed in my mind. I’d heard them mentioned but never fully grasped their significance. After consulting with my new attorney, it all clicked. Trusts are powerful legal tools that allow you to control how and when your assets are distributed. They can minimize estate taxes, protect assets from creditors, and provide for beneficiaries with special needs.
- For instance: a revocable living trust allows you to retain control over assets during your lifetime while specifying how they’ll be managed after your death.
My new attorney explained the various types of trusts and helped me choose the best structure for my individual needs. It was a relief to finally have someone guiding me with clarity and expertise.
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:
| estate planning | revocable living trust | wills |
| living trust | family trust | estate planning attorney near me |
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 do I talk to my family about my estate plan?” Or “Who is responsible for handling probate?” or “What should I do with my original trust documents? and even: “What is a bankruptcy trustee and what do they do?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.