A Will invariably names the people the person wants to deal with his property and possessions after he dies. They are called his executors and his property and possessions are called his estate.
A person’s estate can include land, savings, insurance policies, furniture, paintings, clothes, cars and any other personal effects.
The executors’ main role is to carry out the wishes of the deceased person, as stated in his Will. It includes:
- finding out the total value of the deceased person’s estate;
- obtaining the official document from the Probate Registry of the High Court that proves they are the people entitled to deal with his estate – known as the Grant of Probate;
- paying his debts or expenses, using money from the estate; and
- distributing the remaining property and money in the estate to the beneficiaries in accordance with the Will.
There can be between one and four executors, though two is most common. They are usually trusted friends and/or relatives, although a professional person may have been named.
Our probate department is very experienced and is highly recommended. They are able to assist in all steps in the administration process.
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