Free wills drawn up for a week
Drawing up a will can run into the thousands, but for five days in the middle of September you can draw up your will for free. Book your appointment with a participating attorney now.
NATIONAL Wills Week runs from 15 to 19 September and during this time members of the public can have a basic will drafted by an attorney free of charge.
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Attorneys’ firms throughout the country are participating in the National Wills Week project.
‘By ensuring that you have a valid will, you as the testator, can protect the interests of your loved ones and ensure that there is no delay in settling your estate after your death. It also ensures that your executor will act according to your wishes as set out in your will. 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,’ said Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) co-chairman, Ettienne Barnard.
He added that people who have recently divorced or widowed should take advantage of this free service. According to Barnard people who are cohabitating with their partners could also benefit. “If you have been cohabitating with your partner, it is advisable to have a will to ensure that there are no competing claims on your estate. Similarly, unmarried persons – 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” Barnard said.
Attorneys participating in the National Wills Week initiative will display posters with their contact details so members of the public can make appointments with attorneys in their area. In addition, the contact details of all participating attorneys can be accessed on the LSSA website or by contacting the relevant provincial law society.
