Graphic: lssa.org.za

National Wills Week (12 – 16 September) kicks off tomorrow. More than a 1000 attorneys’ firms will be assisting the public by writing wills at no charge. Take note: Only new basic wills will be drafted.

Why one should take up this offer:
According to the Law Society of South Africa the following can happen if you die intestate (i.e. without having left a 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:
“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 unhappiness and conflict among members of your family because there are no clear instructions on how to distribute your assets.
There can be extra and unnecessary costs.”

Click here for a list of participating attorneys in the Western Cape.
Click here for information about wills.