Deceased Estates: Last Will & Testament

Understanding the Importance of a Last Will and Testament

A Last Will and Testament is a crucial legal document, ensuring your assets and personal possessions are distributed according to your wishes after you're gone. Beyond simply outlining beneficiaries, a well-drafted will designates an Executor to manage your estate, a vital step often overlooked. Without a valid will, your estate may not be distributed as you intend.

What You'll Learn:

• Drafting a Valid Last Will and Testament: Learn the essential components of creating a legally sound will.
• Signing a Valid Last Will and Testament: Understand the proper procedures for legally executing your will.
• Competency to Make a Last Will and Testament: Explore the legal requirements for ensuring your will is valid.
• Impact of Divorce/Annulment: Discover how divorce or annulment affects your will – including a 3-month grace period.
• Regular Review & Estate Planning: The importance of reviewing your Last Will and Testament at least annually and maintaining an updated list of your assets.
• Planning for End-of-Life Decisions: Information on cremation and organ donation.
• Witness Requirements: Who is eligible to serve as witnesses for a Last Will and Testament.
• Legal Formalities: A detailed look at the statutory requirements and formalities of a valid will, referencing Section 2 of the Wills Act no 7 of 1953.
• Court Validation: Understanding what happens if a signed will doesn't meet legal formalities – Section 2(3) of the Wills Act no 7 of 1953 and the court's role in validating it.

What's Included:

• Video Presented Course: Engaging video lessons to guide you through the process.
• Downloadable Course Material: Comprehensive resources to support your learning.
• Certificate of Training: A verifiable certificate upon course completion.
• Optional Assessment: Test your knowledge and understanding.
• SAIT Accredited: Earn 4 verifiable CPD points.

About the Presenter: Lize Muller

Lize Muller brings over 20 years of experience in Administration of Deceased Estates, having administered estates since 2001. She holds an AIPSA Diploma in Insolvency Law and a certificate in Administration of Deceased’s Estates, Continuing Legal Education, and the Law Society of South Africa. Lize is dedicated to sharing her extensive knowledge with those interested in this field.

Key Achievements:

• Over 220 appointments as Executor in both Testate and Intestate Estates.
• Advisory role to other Executors on estate administration requirements.
• Experience with complex estates, including successful High Court Litigation regarding heir and beneficiary disputes.
• Management of estates involving successful PIE (Probate Income Exclusion) Applications.
• Experience with International Estates (UK, Germany, Scotland, Spain) and obtaining local appointments.
• Drafting over 2300 Wills, including International Wills.
• Nominated by First National Bank and other third parties as Executor.
• Referral estates from various Attorneys.
• Assisting as Administrator for various Firms of Attorneys.