Trusts, Estates & Wills
It is an interesting (and disturbing) fact that a large number of South Africans with reasonable wealth do not have valid up-to-date Wills. The consequences of having a too-casual attitude to whether you have a Will or to ensuring that it is updated from time to time are far reaching and can cause severe difficulties for those who are left behind after your death.
The effect of dying without a valid will is that your estate will be regarded as Intestate and will be administered in accordance with the Laws of Intestacy. The Intestate Succession Act sets out the manner in which your Intestate heirs will inherit, according to complicated procedures and permutations. Certainly one of the most significant implications of dying Intestate (without a will) is that the appointment of an Executor is then left entirely in the hands of the Master of the High Court which can cause significant delays and results in you having no say in the matter.
Our specialised Trustee department undertakes the drafting of wills, winding up and administration of deceased estates, formation of intervivos trusts, administration of testamentary trusts and general estate planning. We would be happy to peruse your existing Will for you, in order to ascertain its validity. We’d be happy to meet with you to discuss your specific requirements, any concerns you may have or to advise on Estate Planning in general.