The principle of freedom of testation states that every person may legally decide what happens to their own estate after death. Practically, this means that everyone may create a will at any time throughout their life to make their wishes and instructions known when they die. A person who makes a will is known as […]
The South African legal system is heavily influenced by Roman-Dutch law, which was brought to our land by Dutch settlers in the 17th century, and is now one of our primary sources of law known as common law. One of the significant common law principles relating to inheritance from deceased estates in South Africa is […]
Deceased estate administration is the legal process of finalising a deceased person’s estate. This includes validating the deceased’s will (if one exists) and granting authority to an executor to take control of the deceased’s assets and administer the estate. In South Africa, the Master of the High Court issues the letters of executorship to an […]
Applying for a Letter of Executorship or Authority is the legal process that plays a significant role in the administration of deceased estates in South Africa. Application for this executorship letter is the court’s way to ensure the orderly distribution of a deceased person’s assets and the settling of their debts.
There are executors and institutions out there offering to write people’s will for free. While having your will recorded is of course highly important, I encourage you not to nominate and appoint an executor on your will simply because they offer you this one service for free. Your executor is going to play an important […]
Handwritten letters from loved ones have great power in helping us to process loss. They also offer us comfort and strength for what lies ahead. We often gain comfort from people we trust and direct family members are often our most trusted confidants, having access to written words from them therefor really helps with the […]
A Life File (or ‘File of Life’) is a document that contains important facts and information about you, your significant others, your properties and vehicles, and your life and health policies. When you pass, your executor is able to use this information to efficiently wrap up your affairs. Please note that a Life File is […]
A digital Will tells your executor what to do with your online assets when you die. It’s a document that focuses on what you would like to have said and done with your online memberships and accounts. Do I really need a Digital Will? A digital Will isn’t as crucial as a Last Will And […]
While most of us know that it’s important to plan for the smooth handover of your estate when you pass, not everyone considers how valuable it would be to leave a last letter. Did you consider one while conducting your estate planning? This letter – a ‘letter of wishes’ – is something that you attach […]
When I was seven years old, I was in a tragic car crash. This crash impacted and directed my life in so many ways. Dealing with the loss I faced was challenging but I never lost hope. My empathetic approach to life and business is founded on my personal experience. A Season Of Grief My […]
Established In 2020, ‘Marsh Fidelity’’ exists to create an enduring difference. We are passionate about helping families navigate through difficult times in their lives, when they are vulnerable and in need. We want to be your guiding light and give you peace of mind.