Search for and publish the will
It must be checked whether a will exists and, if so, it must be officially published at the Magistrate's Court. The search is usually done through a notary in the wills registry. Until the will question is settled, do not proceed with accepting the inheritance.
Steps
- Ask the family's notary whether a will had been drawn up.
- Have a notary search the wills registry.
- If a will is found, it is submitted for publication at the Magistrate's Court — a notary or lawyer handles the process.
Documents usually needed
- Death certificate
- ID card or passport
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out whether the deceased left a will?
A notary can search the will registry. If the family worked with a particular notary, start there — the will is often kept in their archive.
What does 'publishing' a will mean?
It is the formal process by which the will is filed and 'opened' at the Magistrates' Court so it becomes legally binding on everyone. A notary or lawyer usually handles it.
The deadlines and details of this process change and vary case by case. Confirm them with a lawyer or notary — this guide provides administrative guidance, not legal or tax advice.
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