legal guardian

Unlike a child’s natural guardian, a guardian appointed by the court can choose whether to accept the position or not. However, in assuming the office of guardian they do not have a legal duty to support the child but rather

A per stirpes clause, or by representation clause, is a legal stipulation included in a will that requires that if a beneficiary dies before you, that beneficiary’s share of the inheritance will pass to his/her heirs.

Upon your death, your testamentary trust will come into formation and the assets identified in your will must be transferred to the trust. Your nominated trustees must apply to the Master of the High Court for letters of authority which

Saving for retirement may feel like an impossibility for a single parent, especially when your children are younger and the continuous stream of expenses seems insurmountable. It may help to remind yourself that saving for retirement is a long-term process

Where a minor child inherits money, the Master may direct that these funds are transferred to the Guardian’s Fund, following which an account will be opened in the name of the beneficiary. If the beneficiary has not yet been identified,

If there are specific assets in your estate that you intend bequeathing to your minor children, it is important that you provide for this carefully in your Will. Remember, in terms of our law, children under the age of 18

In the event of your death, the funds held in your retirement annuity do not form part of your deceased estate and are not included when calculating your estate duty liability or executor’s fees – meaning that your RA effectively

The child’s guardian (or tutor, curator or person looking after the child) is able to claim from the Guardian’s Fund to cover costs such as school and university fees, clothes, medical aid premiums, food, maintenance and any other costs that