Articles & Insights
Practical guidance on deceased estate administration, wills and trusts, antenuptial contracts and property transfers — written by our attorneys.
What Happens to a Mortgage Bond on a Property When the Homeowner Dies
A mortgage bond or sometimes also called a home loan does not disappear when a homeowner dies. The outstanding balance remains and the bank retains its security interest in the…
Understanding Antenuptial Contracts and the Accrual System
Most couples spend months planning a wedding and very little time planning a marriage, at least not in the legal sense. The decision about how your assets and debts will be…
Late Claims Against a Deceased Estate in South Africa
Once a deceased estate has been administered and assets distributed, the law generally treats the matter as closed. That presumption of finality underpins estate administration in…
Executor of an Estate - Duties, Risks, and Common Mistakes
An executor of an estate is the person or entity legally appointed to administer a deceased person's estate after death. In South Africa, the executor's authority does not come…
Updating Your Will After Major Life Changes
Many people treat their last will and testament as a once-off task—something you write, file away, and forget. But life rarely stands still. Relationships evolve, families grow,…
How to Ensure Your Will is Correctly Executed and Signed
Ensuring your will is correctly executed (signed and witnessed) is essential to guarantee that your final wishes are honoured and your estate passes smoothly to your chosen heirs.…
What Happens if Your Partner Dies and You are not Married?
In South Africa, inheritance laws heavily favor legal spouses and immediate family members. For unmarried couples, the lack of legal recognition can lead to unwanted complications…
Dying Without a Will - Intestate Succession in South Africa
When someone passes away without a valid will in South Africa, the law dictates how their estate is distributed through Intestate Succession Act. This process, while legally…
Offer to Purchase – Navigating the Initial Transaction Phase
The Offer to Purchase (OTP) is a critical step in the journey of acquiring property, marking the transition from intent to a legal commitment. Understanding, negotiating, and…
Steps to Prepare for a Property Purchase Before Transfer
Purchasing property is a significant decision, especially because the process involves various legal and financial steps.
The Role of a Conveyancing Attorney in the Transfer of Property
Navigating the complexities of property transactions can be daunting for both first-time buyers and seasoned investors. At the heart of such transactions lies the role of a…
Beetle Infestation Certificates in South African Property Deals
Imagine finalizing the purchase of your dream home only to discover it's riddled with wood-boring beetles. In South Africa, especially in coastal regions, this scenario is more…
Electrical Fence Compliance Certificate for Property Transfer
An Electrical Fence Compliance Certificate (EFCC) is a legal document that certifies the electrical fence of a property meets the required safety standards. It is governed by the…
Water Installation Compliance Certificate in Property Transfers
When it comes to transferring property ownership, many legal requirements come into play. One such requirement that holds significant importance is the Water Installation…
Electrical Compliance Certificate (ECC) in South Africa
The South African property landscape is governed by stringent regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. One such regulation is the Electrical Compliance…
Gas Compliance Certificate and Property Transfers in South Africa
The Gas Compliance Certificate (GCC) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that properties with gas installations meet the necessary safety standards set by the South Africa's…
Understanding Conveyancing – An Introduction
Conveyancing refers to the legal process by which the lawful ownership of an immovable property is transferred. In simpler terms, it's the procedure that ensures a person/s,…
Conveyancing – A Step-by-Step Guide for South African Homebuyers
Buying a home is a significant milestone, and one of the crucial aspects is the conveyancing process. If you're a South African homebuyer, navigating the intricacies of…
Deceased Estate Administration – When do You Need an Attorney?
Dealing with the affairs of a deceased loved one can be an emotionally daunting and legally intricate process. That's why we are here to address the pressing question on your…
The Requirements for a Valid Will in South Africa
Your will is one of the most, if not the most important document you will ever sign. It's alarming that less than 15% of South Africans pass away with a valid will in place. The…
Winding Up a Deceased Estate - How Long Does it Take?
Today, we address a common concern that often arises when navigating the complexities of handling a loved one's affairs after their passing: "How long does it take to wind up a…
Role Players in Deceased Estate Administration in South Africa
Deceased estate administration in South Africa can be a complex and challenging process. When a loved one passes away, there are various legal and administrative tasks that need…
A Guide to Deceased Estate Administration in South Africa
As an experienced law firm in Cape Town, South Africa, Cornell Horn Attorneys understands that the process of managing a deceased estate can be overwhelming and complex. Deceased…
Dealing with the Deceased Estate of a Family Member
Dealing with the deceased estate of a family member can be an overwhelming and emotionally draining experience. It's a time that's often fraught with legal, financial, and…
Antenuptial Contracts: Think Before You Say, "I Do.
You have decided on the venue, the cake and centerpieces: but have you decided what type of antenuptial contract you want?
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Whether you are winding up an estate, transferring a property or putting your will in order — we are ready to assist.
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