Family Law and Estate Services
From marriage breakdown, maintenance, matrimonial causes to deceased estates executorship: these are areas of law requiring sensitivity and objectivity: we believe our professionalism is what leads to increasing referrals.
Deceased Estates and Estate planning (Wills & Trusts)
Deceased Estates
Findlater Attorneys appreciates the deeply personal and emotional impact that the death of a loved one or family member has on bereaved persons. During this emotional time, we will be there to assist in finalising the deceased estate, wherein the burden of dealing with the procedural aspects of winding up the deceased estate is handled by us thus allowing you to grieve for your loved one or family member without the added complications associated with the winding-up process.
The winding-up process can be complicated and distressing therefore we assist our clients in fulfilling the duties of the executor as fast and efficient as possible. We will assist you in all the procedural aspects from reporting the estate to the Master of the High Court, to finalising the liquidation and distribution account.
Heirs Disputes
The passing of a relative or loved one can also lead to confusion and conflict between the parties. Disputes between the parties over the division of the estate are all too commonplace and often lead to an irretrievable breakdown in relationships. We provide a service whereby we mediate and assist in dispute resolution. Our aim is to ensure that all the relevant heirs receive what is due to them in a fair and equitable manner, thereby helping to reconcile the differences between the parties.
Types of Deceased Estates
Testate (with a will)
Testate estates can be finalised within a period of six to twelve months, depending on various factors such as the size of the estate, the number of bequests and the debts owing by the estate.
Intestate (with no will or invalid will)
Intestate estates usually take a considerably longer period of time and are usually finalised with a period of eighteen months. It is for this reason that we always recommend to our clients that they have a valid will drawn up as it will spare their families and loved ones the long process of having their estates wound up.
Estate planning
The preparation of Wills, the formation of Trusts and Estate Planning in general, require specialised skill and insight, which we are proud to offer clients. Keeping abreast of developments in the law and trends in taxation is essential in offering a professional service in this field. At Findlater Attorneys we are able to offer the expertise clients expect and need.