A will is a legal document that expresses your wishes regarding how you want your property and assets to be distributed after your death. It also allows you to name a guardian for your minor children, an executor for your estate, and a beneficiary for your charitable donations. A will can help you avoid family conflicts, save money and time on taxes and probate, and ensure that your legacy is honored according to your preferences.
Many people think that they don’t need a will because they are not wealthy or that their asset structure is not complicated. At SA Estate and Succession Lawyers we know this to be a misconception that can cause a lot of problems for your loved ones when you are gone. Without a will, your estate will be subject to the laws of intestate succession, which may not reflect your wishes or values. For example, if you have a partner but are not married and are not in a registered relationship and do not count legally as Spouses, your partner may not inherit anything from you. If you have children from a previous relationship, they may not get along with your current spouse or partner.
It is important to make a will as soon as possible, even if you are young and healthy. At SA Estate and Succession Lawyers we draft the first wills for young adults just entering the workforce and for newly married couples before they have children and all manner of people starting out on their adult journey. Our clients all describe a sense of relief at doing some real adulting. We then meet with our clients every 3 years or so and ensure that their Wills are still the right fit for them. Most clients will make 3 – 5 Wills in their lifetime and we get great pleasure out of seeing our clients at different stages of life’s journey with constantly evolving wills as a result of their evolving life circumstances.
Making a will is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your loved ones. It gives you peace of mind that your affairs are in order and that your family and friends will be taken care of after you die. It also shows that you care about them and respect their wishes. A will is not just a legal document; it is a personal statement of who you are and what matters to you.