16-20 September 2024
The Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) has been hosting the National Wills Week, a public outreach programme, successfully since 2008. This year, the campaign will run from 16 to 20 September 2024. During this week, the public can have a basic will drafted free of charge.
The LSSA National Wills Week has become a significant event in the profession’s social outreach and access to justice initiatives. This success is due to the thousands of attorneys who generously contribute their time and expertise.
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.
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 regards to your will. An attorney has the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure that your will is valid and complies with your wishes.
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.
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.
- The Administration of Estates Act stipulates that if a minor child inherits cash, it should be paid into the Guardian’s Fund. The minor’s other parent, or someone appointed by the Master of the High Court as their guardian, will have to apply to the fund for money for their care.
SAFEKEEPING OF WILLS AND OTHER IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
At LBF Attorneys we understand the importance of keeping your essential documents, such as your will and other legal papers, secure and up to date. We are committed to providing you with the best possible service to ensure your peace of mind.
Our firm offers a secure and reliable storage service for all your important documents at no cost to yourself. By entrusting us with your valuable documents, you can rest assured that they are safe and easily accessible when needed.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
We recommend scheduling an appointment with us for the drafting of your will – free of charge. Our team of experienced professionals are here to assist you with this or even if you only want to update or change your current will.
Please follow this link https://lbflaw.co.za/contact-us/ to make an appointment or send us your telephone number via WhatsApp -message and we will contact you.