WILLS & DECEASED ESTATES
Having a valid will is essential. It ensures that an estate is administered in accordance with the last wishes of the deceased. Should a person pass away without executing a valid will, the estate will be administered in terms of the Intestate Succession Act 81 of 1987.
An estate includes everything a person owns. All immovable property, such as your house, movable property, such as your car and furniture are included, as well as claims in favour of your estate, such as investments, policies, bank accounts and so forth.
The service we provide with regards to the Administration of Estates includes, but is not limited to:
- The acceptance of the appointment as an Executor, or an Agent, by the Master of the High Court;
- Administering the estate as required by law;
- Transfer of immovable properties;
- Transfer of movable assets;
- General advice relating to the administration of an estate;
- Litigation relating to estate late matters.
During this difficult time for the loved ones left behind, we work with the heirs and the financial advisors to ensure that we provide efficient service. The process of estate administration is often lengthy and complex as all debtors, creditors and beneficiaries have to be identified and validated. Our years of experience ensures that all delays are avoided wherever possible, minimizing the stress associated with the finalization of a deceased estate. Our executors make use of regular communication channels to ensure that the beneficiaries, creditors, debtors and other stakeholders in the estate are informed and updated on all progress made.
Only an executor, whose appointment has been confirmed by the Master of the High Court, may deal with the assets and liabilities of a deceased’s estate.
Once executors have administered the estate as prescribed by the Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965, the inheritance is distributed in accordance with the last will and testament of the deceased.
The duties of the executor include but are not limited to:
- Collection of all the assets of the deceased;
- Investigation and settlement of all debts against the estate after the validity has been confirmed;
- Distribution of the assets among the rightful heirs and beneficiaries.
