Virtual Appointments Available Day, Evening, and Weekends
FaceTime and video conferencing
available
35+ years
of proven
experience
Free No Obligation Thirty Minute Consultation
Statewide representation for estate planning and probate
Secure Your Legacy with The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. in Temecula, CA.
Feeling overwhelmed by estate planning? You’re not alone. With over 35 years of proven experience – crafting over 35,000 personalized plans and trusts – we transform complexity into clarity. Specializing in Probate, Estate Planning, and Trust Administration, we focus on minimizing taxes, maximizing asset preservation, and avoiding costly errors. Discover peace of mind with our compassionate guidance.
Call today for your Free No Obligation Thirty Minute consultation.
We offer reasonable rates, tailored solutions, and can even come to you!
Google Reviews
Yelp Reviews
Fundamentals of Estate Planning
Guide To Passing On Your Assets & Values Legally & Efficiently
Estate Planning Law
Estate Planning Law in California governs the legal strategies used to manage, preserve, and transfer an individual’s assets during life and after death. This includes the creation of wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advanced healthcare directives, all tailored to comply with the California Probate Code. A properly executed estate plan ensures assets are distributed according to the individual’s wishes, minimizes probate delays, and may reduce estate tax burdens. It also designates trusted individuals to handle financial and medical decisions in the event of incapacity. An estate plan provides legal clarity, asset protection, and peace of mind for individuals and their beneficiaries.
Probate Law
Probate law governs the legal process by which a deceased person’s estate is administered, validated, and distributed under court supervision. It ensures that outstanding debts and taxes are paid before any remaining assets are transferred to rightful heirs or beneficiaries. In California, this process is overseen by the Superior Court and must adhere strictly to the Probate Code, particularly §§6400–6806. A properly executed will simplifies probate, while dying intestate triggers default succession laws that may conflict with the decedent’s intent. Timely legal guidance can reduce delays, minimize costs, and safeguard against disputes among interested parties.
PRACTICE AREAS
Contact Our San Diego Office
(858) 278-2800
Trust Administration Law
Trust Administration Law governs the management and distribution of assets held within a trust following the death or incapacity of the trust creator. In California, the successor trustee assumes fiduciary duties that include asset marshaling, debt settlement, beneficiary notifications, and tax filings under the guidance of the California Probate Code §16000 et seq. The process requires strict adherence to timelines, legal disclosures, and accounting standards to avoid breach of duty claims. Trust administration bypasses probate but still demands legal precision, especially when interpreting ambiguous clauses or managing contentious beneficiaries. A qualified trust attorney ensures compliance, mitigates liability, and facilitates efficient, dispute-free execution of the decedent’s intentions.
Bankruptcy Law
California Bankruptcy Law provides legal relief for individuals and businesses overwhelmed by debt through structured federal proceedings governed primarily by the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, with certain exemptions defined under California state law. Debtors may file under Chapter 7 for liquidation or Chapter 13 for court-approved reorganization and repayment plans. California requires residents to use the state’s specific exemption system—either System 1 (704) or System 2 (703)—to protect assets such as homes, vehicles, and retirement accounts. The automatic stay provision halts most collection actions immediately upon filing, offering temporary protection against foreclosure, wage garnishment, and creditor lawsuits. However, not all debts can be discharged, including certain taxes, student loans, and domestic support obligations, necessitating careful legal strategy and compliance with both state and federal procedural rules.
Why San Diego Law?
Local Roots, Real Connections
For more than 35 years, Steve Bliss has helped families across San Diego County and Southern California plan with confidence and clarity. With offices in Kearny Mesa and Escondido—and easy virtual meetings via Zoom or FaceTime—clients get personalized guidance on a schedule that fits real life, including early mornings and evenings. Every estate plan, trust, and probate matter is handled directly by Steve, ensuring focused expertise from day one. The free consultation isn’t a gimmick—it’s the first step in building a lasting, trusted relationship.
A Practice Built on Purpose
Steve opened his law office in 1991 with a simple goal: make quality legal services accessible and affordable. Since then, he’s helped more than 1,500 individuals and families protect their legacies through customized estate plans, living trusts, and business formations. Most services are offered at flat fees with no hidden costs, and flexible payment plans are available. Clients value the transparency and peace of mind that define his approach—whether forming a corporation or guiding a family through probate.
The Story Behind the Skills
Steve Bliss brings a rare mix of financial and legal insight to his work. He earned a B.S. in Accounting from Syracuse University, passed the CPA exam in 1985, and graduated in the top 10% of his class at California Western School of Law in 1989. Known for precision, preparation, and empathy, he pairs professional expertise with a personal touch. Outside the office, Steve is a husband, father of two, and avid traveler who enjoys football and staying active—clients gain not just an attorney, but a trusted advocate.
Ready to Protect What Matters Most?
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward securing your legacy with confidence. Whether you need a comprehensive estate plan, guidance through probate, or trusted support for trust administration, you’ll work directly with me—an experienced attorney who puts your goals first.
Did you find my law-firm helpful? Show your support by giving us a 5-star rating, it only takes a second and helps others find the information they need.