Notarizing wills and estate planning documents

FAQ for Notarizing Wills and Estate Planning Documents

What is notarization?

Notarization is a process of verifying the authenticity of a document and the signature of the person who signed it. A notary public is a person who is authorized to perform notarization.

What is a will?

A will is a legal document that sets out how a person's assets will be distributed after their death.

Why do I need to notarize my will?

Notarizing a will ensures that it is legally valid and that the signature of the person who signed it is authentic. This can prevent disputes and legal challenges to the will.

What is estate planning?

Estate planning is the process of making a plan for how a person's assets will be distributed after their death. This can include creating a will, setting up trusts, and making arrangements for funeral and burial.

Do I need a lawyer to notarize my will or estate planning documents?

No, you do not need a lawyer to notarize your will or estate planning documents. However, it is always recommended to seek legal advice before making any important legal decisions.

What documents can be notarized for estate planning?

Documents that can be notarized for estate planning include wills, trusts, power of attorney, and living wills.

Can I notarize a will that was written in another language?

Yes, you can notarize a will that was written in another language. However, you will need to provide a translation of the document to the notary public.

How much does it cost to notarize a will or estate planning document?

The cost of notarizing a will or estate planning document will vary depending on the notary public you choose. It is recommended to shop around and compare prices before making a decision.

In South Africa, notaries public are legal professionals who specialize in the authentication and certification of documents, as well as the drafting and execution of certain legal instruments. The governing legislation for notaries public in South Africa is the Notaries Act of 1997. This act regulates the appointment, qualifications, and duties of notaries public. The South African Law Society, which represents attorneys, is responsible for the regulation and oversight of notaries public. To find more information about notary public laws in South Africa and the South African Law Society, you can visit the following links:

1. Notaries Act: https://www.justice.gov.za/legislation/acts/1997-016.pdf
2. South African Law Society: https://www.lssa.org.za/