It’s time to get your affairs in order this National Wills Week

Do you have a will? Doesn't matter who you are or what you do; if you're older than 16 years, you should have a will in place.

1 hour ago

Lauren Anthony 2 minutes read

National Wills Week runs from 14 to 18 September 2026, giving South Africans the chance to get their wills written up for free.

Contemplating our mortality when we’re supposed to be celebrating springtime and new beginnings seems contrary, but it must be done. And National Wills Week makes it SO much easier!

Run by the Law Society of South Africa (LSSA), participating attorneys offer you the chance to have a basic will prepared free of charge.

Richard Evans & Associates, a Kloof-based law firm participating in the initiative, has shared details about the week and what you need to know!

Why do you need a will?

A valid will allows you to set out how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. This is known as freedom of testation.

Having clear instructions in place can provide certainty for family members and help prevent disagreements or confusion over an estate.

Without a valid will, an estate is distributed according to the Intestate Succession Act.

While the legislation provides for assets to be distributed among qualifying spouses, children, and other relatives according to prescribed rules, it may not reflect what you would have wanted.

Dying without a will can also result in:

· Your assets not going to the people you would have chosen.
· Delays while an executor is appointed.
· Additional or unnecessary costs.
· Family disagreements or conflict over the distribution of your estate.
· An executor being appointed who is not someone you would have selected yourself.
· Why have an attorney draft your will?

Free basic wills during National Wills Week

While it is possible to prepare a will yourself, it must meet specific legal requirements to be valid.

An attorney can advise on potential issues and ensure that the document complies with the law and accurately reflects your wishes. Incorrectly drafted wills can create complications when an estate needs to be administered.

National Wills Week provides access to basic will-drafting services and educates the public about the importance of estate planning.

For more information about National Wills Week and participating legal practitioners, visit the Law Society of South Africa website (www.lssa.org.za).

Richard Evans & Associates can also be contacted for information about its National Wills Week participation and consultations (www.reaa.co.za).

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