National Wills Week: Let an Attorney Write Your Will for Free

Sep 11, 2017 | Blog

The following information was provided by the Law Society of South Africa.

6 reasons why you should have a will

  1. It is your right to decide who should inherit your assets.
  2. You must ensure your family is provided for in terms of your last wishes.
  3. Your assets will be left to the beneficiaries of your choice.
  4. The executor who is appointed is someone you know, trust and may have chosen yourself.
  5. You will avoid extra or unnecessary costs.
  6. You will avoid unhappiness and conflict among members of your family because there are clear instructions on how to distribute your assets.

5 reasons why you should use an attorney to draft your will

  1. A practising attorney is a qualified professional registered with a law society.
  2. An attorney has the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure that your will is valid and complies with all the legal requirements.
  3. An attorney helps to ensure that your estate is administered promptly, efficiently.
  4. An attorney can advise you on any problem which may arise with your will.
  5. An attorney can assist and support your executor.

4 things to think about before you make your will

  1. Who must get what?
  2. Who should be the legal guardians of your minor children (those under 18)?
  3. Who should be the executor of your will?
  4. Should you consider a joint will with your spouse?

3 things about an executor

  1. The executor must administer your estate according to your will.
  2. The executor can be your attorney, your spouse or a family member or friend.
  3. If you decide on a spouse, family member or friend, it is advisable also to nominate the attorney as co-executor as the attorney will deal with any legal issues.

2 things to take to your appointment with the attorney

  1. Your ID document (and for your spouse if you have a joint will).
  2. A list of what you own (including specific personal items that you wish to bequeath to specific people) and who should get what.

Contact Simpsons Attorneys at info@simpsons.co.za or on (021) 949 2270 today to have your will written for free between 11 September and 15 September 2017.

  • Download the original infographic in Afrikaans.
  • Download the original infographic in English.
  • Download the original infographic in Xhosa.