Best Will & Testament Lawyers in South Africa

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Southey Attorneys Incorporated
Newcastle, South Africa

English
Southey Attorneys Incorporated stands as a beacon of legal excellence in South Africa, offering a diverse range of services that cater to both individual and corporate clients. With a robust specialization in attorney referral services, the firm ensures clients are matched with the most suitable...
Engelsman Magabane Incorporated
Kimberley, South Africa

Founded in 1948
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Protecting the Law Since 1948The firm was established in 1948 by HJ Stander and was originally known as HJ Stander and Partners, but has since changed its name to Engelsman Magabane Incorporated. The firm incorporated the practices of Roelof Greeff Attorneys during 1997, Coetzee & Associates...
Shenaaz B Habib & Co (Chatsworth)
Chatsworth, South Africa

Founded in 1996
English
Shenaaz B Habib & Co (Chatsworth) is a distinguished law firm based in Chatsworth, South Africa, recognized for its comprehensive legal expertise across various practice areas. The firm offers specialized legal services including attorney referral, criminal justice representation, divorce...
Van Heerdens Attorneys
Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Founded in 2013
10 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
OverviewVan Heerdens Attorneys is one of Port Elizabeth’s most innovative and respected specialist providers of divorce and family law solutions.We provide the highest quality legal services to our clients by developing tailor-made solutions to their legal needs. Whether the matter can be...
Pisanti Attorneys Incorporated
Germiston, South Africa

Founded in 2017
10 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Welcome to Pisanti Attorneys IncorporatedPisanti Attorneys Incorporated was established in early 2017. When it was founded, we aimed to be a young and vibrant law firm which had a boutique and personal type feel. This ethos has not changed; our family has just gotten bigger.Still situated in...
BLC Attorneys
Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
ABOUT USWith offices located in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and East London, the directors and staff of BLC Attorneys are committed to making a meaningful contribution to the economic and social development of the Eastern Cape Province and consequently, South Africa. We are committed to investing in...
Du Plessis - Viviers Attorneys
Vryburg, South Africa

Founded in 1911
English
Established in 1911, Du Plessis - Viviers Attorneys has been a cornerstone of the Vryburg legal community for over a century. The firm has grown to become one of the largest in South Africa's rural areas, employing a dedicated team of 30 professionals. Their collective expertise spans various legal...
Döman & Kogler Attorneys
Worcester, South Africa

Founded in 2013
English
Döman & Kogler Attorneys, located in Worcester, South Africa, is a specialized law firm focusing on property law, estate planning, and the administration of deceased estates. The firm offers comprehensive legal services in conveyancing, wills, trusts, and notarial deeds, ensuring clients receive...

Founded in 1997
English
Shobhana Devi Dooken & Associates Inc., established in 1997, is a distinguished legal firm based in Phoenix, Durban, South Africa. The firm specializes in conveyancing, estate planning, property law, and family law, offering comprehensive legal services to a diverse clientele. Led by Shobhana Devi...
Ndungu Attorneys Inc
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Ndungu Attorneys Inc is a boutique law firm situated in Johannesburg, close to the South Gauteng High Court (Johannesburg High Court) and various Magistrates’ Courts such as Jeppe, Hillbrow and Westgate.We have a rich and diverse history with our founder Kimani Ndung’u having worked or...
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South Africa Will & Testament Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions about Will & Testament in South Africa and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Brother change my mothers will and i was her caretaker and was the only one that works with the money
Will & Testament
Elder Law
I can share my professional opinion with you.You can contact me on WhatsApp: +38970704335Regards,
Will
Will & Testament
Elder Law
Good morning,You provide very limited facts, however:If your father was married to the other woman in community of property, she in any event receives 50% of everything.If your father left a will, she will still get the 50% and the remaining 50% will be divided according to the will.If your father did not leave a will, he died intestate. His wife will then get most of the estate if not everything.

About Will & Testament Law in South Africa:

Will & Testament law in South Africa governs the legal process of distributing a person's assets after their death. A will is a legal document that specifies how a person's assets should be distributed and who should take care of administering the estate. It is essential to have a will in place to ensure that your wishes are carried out and to prevent any disputes among beneficiaries.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

There are several situations where you may need a lawyer to assist you with your Will & Testament. This includes drafting a will to ensure that it is legally valid, updating an existing will to reflect changes in your circumstances, resolving disputes among beneficiaries, and navigating the legal process of probate.

Local Laws Overview:

In South Africa, the Wills Act of 1953 governs the execution and validity of wills. Some key aspects of local laws that are particularly relevant to Will & Testament in South Africa include the requirements for a valid will, the rules around appointing an executor, and the process of probate.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the requirements for a valid will in South Africa?

A will must be in writing, signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses who also sign the will. The testator must be at least 16 years old and of sound mind.

2. Can I make changes to my will after it has been drafted?

Yes, you can make changes to your will by adding a codicil or drafting a new will. It is essential to consult with a lawyer to ensure that the changes are legally valid.

3. What happens if I die without a will in South Africa?

If you die without a will in South Africa, your assets will be distributed according to the Intestate Succession Act, which may not align with your wishes.

4. How do I choose an executor for my will?

An executor is responsible for administering your estate after your death. It is essential to choose someone trustworthy and competent to fulfill this role. You can also appoint a professional executor or a trust company.

5. What is the process of probate in South Africa?

Probate is the legal process of proving the validity of a will and administering the estate. It involves submitting the will to the Master of the High Court and obtaining a Letter of Executorship to carry out the instructions in the will.

6. Can I disinherit a family member in my will?

Yes, you have the right to disinherit a family member in your will. It is essential to clearly state your intention in the will to prevent any disputes among beneficiaries.

7. How often should I review my will?

It is recommended to review your will every few years or whenever there are significant changes in your circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or acquiring new assets.

8. Can I make a digital will in South Africa?

South African law does not recognize digital wills at this time. It is essential to have a signed, physical copy of your will for it to be legally valid.

9. What are the costs of drafting a will with a lawyer?

The costs of drafting a will with a lawyer will vary depending on the complexity of your estate and the services provided by the lawyer. It is essential to discuss the fees upfront with your lawyer.

10. What should I do if I suspect foul play in someone else's will?

If you suspect foul play in someone else's will, you should consult with a lawyer to discuss your options. You may be able to challenge the validity of the will in court if there is evidence of fraud, coercion, or undue influence.

Additional Resources:

For additional resources related to Will & Testament in South Africa, you can consult the South African Law Commission, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, and the Law Society of South Africa.

Next Steps:

If you need legal assistance with your Will & Testament in South Africa, it is recommended to consult with a qualified lawyer who specializes in estate planning and probate. They can guide you through the legal process, ensure that your wishes are legally valid, and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in South Africa through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Will & Testament, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in South Africa - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.