Get your will drafted for free

AS has become tradition over the past few years, people will be able to have a basic will drafted by an attorney free of charge during National Wills Week from Tuesday, 12 to Saturday, 16 September.

Attorneys’ firms throughout the country will be participating in the National Wills Week project.

“A valid will allows you to state who should inherit your assets and property, to appoint an executor of your choice for your estate and also a guardian for your minor children.

“By ensuring that you have a valid will, you can protect the interests of your loved ones and ensure that your executor will act according to your wishes as set out in your will,” said Law Society of South Africa co-chairmen, Jan van Rensburg and Mvuso Notyesi.

People who have been recently married, divorced or widowed, or those who have been cohabitating with their partners for some time, should also consider having a will drafted. If a person have been cohabitating with a partner, it is advisable to have a will to ensure that there are not competing claims on your estate.

Similarly, single people – particularly those who may have a number of people that depend on them financially – should ensure they have a will in place, as several people could make a claim on their estates.

During National Wills Week, attorneys participating in the Wills Week initiative will display posters with their contact details so that people can make appointments with attorneys in their area. Contact details of all participating attorneys can be accessed on the LSSA website at www.LSSA.org.za.