A recent client survey conducted by Discovery Life reveals that while 98% of respondents believe having a Will is important, almost a third (31%) admitted that they do not have a will in place.
Everyone wants their family members and loved ones to be cared for after they’re gone. Sadly, these good intentions are often lost in translation. Establishing, regularly reviewing, and updating your Will is likely the best way to minimize any potential unhappiness and conflict among the loved ones you leave behind.
The topic of estate planning is often seen as taboo, as it’s never easy to confront the thought of death. However, estate planning and drafting a Will are vital aspects of sound financial planning because they form the foundation of the legacy you wish to leave.
In cases where a Will exists, we often find that drafting and planning mistakes can make it impractical to carry out specific provisions or, worse, cause the laws of intestacy (as determined by the Intestate Succession Act 81 of 1987) to apply. This can lead to unintended and lengthy consequences, to the detriment of the loved ones left behind.
To ensure your legacy is not lost in translation, it’s advisable to seek the assistance and guidance of a professional. A professional can help you take a more considered approach to estate and financial planning by ensuring you understand the relevant legislative directives and implications. This ensures you have a valid, signed Will in place.
Proper estate planning, including the structure, wording, signing, and other legal requirements of your Will, are all areas where a professional specialist can provide invaluable guidance. This helps ensure that your last wishes will be legally executable.
Contact our offices today at 011 897 1900, 076 777 1920 (after hours), or info@tuckers.co.za for a free consultation to arrange the drafting of your Will. Let us help you secure your legacy.
This article was contributed by Wendy De Waal of Tuckers Attorneys.