PROJECT: THE IMPORTANCE OF A VALID WILL
- isabels39
- Jun 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 27
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In South Africa, having a legally valid will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death.
Specialist Investigator Mr. Mike Bolhuis is frequently consulted by the media for his expert insights - on criminal matters
and a wide range of social and safety-related issues.
Listen to the following interviews for his professional opinion and analysis.
https://www.mikebolhuis.co.za/post/radio-onderhoud-met-mike-bolhuis-radio-33-1
(This interview is in Afrikaans)
WHY A VALID, RECENT WILL IS CRITICAL:
Without a valid will:
The law, not you, will determine who inherits your assets.
The administration of your estate can be delayed significantly.
Family conflict and inheritance disputes are far more likely.
Minor children may not be adequately protected or placed with your preferred guardian.
HOW TO DRAFT A LEGALLY VALID WILL:
In terms of the Wills Act 7 of 1953, the following are essential legal requirements:
Requirement | Explanation |
In Writing | A will must be written – typed or handwritten. Oral wills are not recognised. |
Signed by the Testator | The testator (person making the will) must sign at the end of the document. |
Two Competent Witnesses | Two witnesses (age 14 or older, not beneficiaries) must witness the signing. |
Date | Not legally required, but strongly recommended to avoid confusion. |
Every Page Signed | Each page should be signed by the testator to ensure authenticity. |
WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A WILL:
YOUR FULL PERSONAL DETAILS:
Full name, ID number, marital status, and physical address.
APPOINTMENT OF AN EXECUTOR:
Name someone you trust (or a legal professional) to administer your estate.
LIST OF BENEFICIARIES:
Clearly state who inherits what.
Include full names and ID numbers to avoid disputes.
GUARDIANSHIP OF MINOR CHILDREN:
Appoint a guardian if you have children under 18.
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS:
Detail how you want your property, money, and belongings distributed.
FUNERAL INSTRUCTIONS (OPTIONAL):
You may include preferences for burial, cremation, or ceremony details.
How Often Should You Update Your Will?
Your will should not be a static document.
It is recommended to review and update it:
Every two to three years, and
Immediately after any major life event, such as:
Marriage or divorce.
The birth or adoption of a child.
Death of a spouse, beneficiary, or executor
Significant changes in your assets, business interests, or residence.
Regular updates ensure your will remains accurate, enforceable, and reflective of your current wishes and circumstances.
AVOID THESE COMMON MISTAKES:
Not having witnesses, or using heirs as witnesses.
Failing to update your will after major life changes.
Keeping the will hidden or inaccessible.
Using vague terms like “my house” or “my children” without clarification.
WHAT TO DO AFTER WRITING YOUR WILL:
Store it safely: A bank, a lawyer’s office, or a locked home safe.
Inform someone you trust: Give a copy or tell your executor or family member where it is stored.
Review and update regularly: As noted above, at least every 2–3 years or after any significant change in your life.
Your will is more than a legal formality — it’s a final message of care and responsibility to your loved ones.
Dying intestate (without a will) can leave your family in unnecessary turmoil, legal battles, and financial difficulty.
FOR ASSISTANCE IN WRITING OR UPDATING YOUR WILL, CONTACT:
Your personal lawyer.
Your bank (many offer free will-drafting services).
The expert SSS Legal Team. Contact Mr. Mike Bolhuis personally.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel.
This channel is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
How to Join the WhatsApp Channel:
1. Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp on your device.
2. Click on the link below to join the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel:
3. Follow the prompts to join the channel.
4. Make sure you click on "Follow", then click on the "bell"-icon (🔔)
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Follow us on Facebook to view our projects -
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.
POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv
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Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services
PO Box 15075 Lynn East
Pretoria, Gauteng 0039
South Africa
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