Members of the public are being urged to take advantage of the opportunity to have their wills drafted for free during National Wills Week.

Civilians will be able to get a basic will drawn up free of charge during National Wills Week, which started on 16 September and will continue until 20 September 2024.

The week is organised annually by the Law Society of South Africa, and it provides an opportunity for all participating law firms to offer free basic will drafting services.

The attorneys participating in the initiative will not amend or redraft existing wills but will focus on drafting new basic wills for the public.

‘Among other things, making a will assists in ensuring that your assets are disposed of in accordance with your wishes after your death. If a person dies without leaving a valid will, their assets will be distributed according to the provisions of the Intestate Succession Act.

‘The provisions of the Intestate Succession Act are fair, however, if you die without leaving a will, your asset
s may not be left to the person of your choice. It can take a long time to have an executor appointed and there can be extra and unnecessary costs,’ government said.

For more information, members of the public can visit: https://www.lssa.org.za/our-initiatives/advocacy/national-wills-week/

Source: South African Government News Agency