ENSafrica’s Pro Bono office at Alex Mall will draft your Will for free during National Wills Week
Attorneys at ENSafrica’s Pro Bono office at the Alex Mall will be participating in the National Wills Week initiative by drafting Wills for people at no cost.
Thabiso Sefara of the ENSafrica’s Pro bono office writes:
A will is a legal document that states wishes on how a person’s estate must be distributed upon their death.
Each year, the Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) promotes the significance of Wills through their initiative, National Wills Week. The National Wills Week has been made possible by legal practitioners who take part in this initiative and voluntarily contribute their time and expertise.
An easy approach to guarantee the individuals of your choice inherit your estate after your passing is to make a Will. Many of us have witnessed arguments among families over properties that belonged to a deceased loved one. Drawing up a Will while you are still alive will help you avoid this.
A person’s legal personality ceases to exist upon their death. This indicates that one or more living people must receive their property. The first consideration the court, through the Master’s office, will take account of is whether a Will exists.
If a person dies without a Will, their estate will be administered in terms of the Intestate Succession Act 81 of 1987. In a case where there is a valid Will, all estate of the deceased will be given to their heir named in a Will.
In line with the law, a Will must be properly drafted, signed, and witnessed if it is to be deemed legitimate and effective after your death. Anyone who is at least 16 years old and has mental capacity can create a Will.
South African law is not strict on who to elect as an inheritor of estates, such as your children or immediate family members. You can decide on whoever you wish to give your belongings to.
The heirs of each property must be specified in a Will and state who will inherit what items. You can also divide your estate in equal distribution among your heirs.
The executor of your estate must also be named in your Will as required by law. An executor will take charge of your assets, pay off your debts, and see to it that what’s left is given to your heirs.
Your wishes, such as where you would prefer to be buried and who must be the guardian of your minor children, can also be addressed in a Will. Each page of the Will must be signed by the person making the Will (testator/testatrix) and two witnesses. You are allowed to make changes to your Will while you are still alive including complete alterations.
Many individuals are unaware of the numerous additional regulations that apply to Wills. As a result, it is recommended that you get legal counsel to create yours.
Attorneys at ENSafrica will be participating in the National Wills Week initiative by drafting Wills for people at no cost.
Details: ENSafrica’s Pro Bono office 011 555 0980; visit our offices at Shop 38 Alex Mall, Cnr London Road (M54) and N3, Far East Bank, Alexandra.
