It is something you are not able to rectify!
Why must you have a will?
By making a will you ensure that your assets are disposed of in accordance with your wishes after your death. This privilege is called “freedom of testation”.
Why should an attorney draft your will?
Attorneys are professionals qualified in law. An attorney can advise you on any problem which may arise with regard to your will. An attorney has the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure that your will is valid and complies with your wishes.
Often a will is not valid because the person who drafts it does not have the necessary legal knowledge to ensure that the requirements of the law are met.
What happens to your estate if you die without a valid will?
If you die without leaving a valid will, your assets will be distributed according to the provisions of the Intestate Succession Act. The provisions of this Act are generally fair and ensure that your possessions are transferred to your spouse and children.
BUT, the following problems may arise if you die without leaving a will:
- Your assets may not be left to the person of your choice.
- It can take a long time to have an executor appointed. The executor who is appointed may be somebody you may not have chosen yourself.
- There can be extra and unnecessary costs.
- There can be unhappiness and conflict among members of your family because there are no clear instructions on how to distribute your assets.
CONTACT US to draft your Will FREE of charge between 11 – 15 September 2017:
Cape Town: Dominique Wolhuter or 021 487 7900
Tygervalley: Kim Cameron-Dow or 021 914 5511
Noordhoek: Cathy Conway /Storme Heath or 021 785 5945
Storme Heath is a director in the Noordhoek office of C&A Friedlander Inc.
Storme specialises in Conveyancing & Property Law, Notarial Practise and Wills, Trusts and Estates.
“Everyone gets organized at some point, they just might not be around for it “– Sue de Roos
This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your legal adviser for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)