Executor Law | Deceased Estates & Wills

Deceased Estate Administration & Will Drafting — Johannesburg Attorneys

Bespoke Wills Drafted & Estates Administered

Obligation-Free Client Consultations

Commercial and Residential Properties Transferred

Bonds Registered & Cancelled

Trusted for over 30 years by distinguished clientele

The J Bredenkamp | Executor Law legal team.

J Bredenkamp Incorporated trading as “Executor Law” offers distinguished, compassionate legal expertise in estate administration, property transfers, elder law and legacy planning for South Africans, both locally and abroad.

For over 30 years, we have specialised in bespoke wills, complex generational and cross-border estate planning, fiduciary advice, property law (residential and commercial conveyancing), heir / family mediation, elder law and dispute resolution.

Our services are delivered with discretion, precision, and unwavering commitment to families and individuals navigating loss, old age, and intergenerational wealth transitions.

info@executorlaw.co.za · Mon – Fri 08:30am-4:30pm

Plan and Administer Your Estate with a Personal Executor

An attorney, not a robot or call centre.

Decades of experience. Trusted by Judges and lawyers.

Compassionate, personalised care for your family during grief.

What Our Clients Say

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 116 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Lise Kuhle 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amanda and Jeanine are really on the ball. Very efficient, organized and quick!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Razvan Tatu 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service, Amanda is a wonderful professional.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Johan Zietsman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very efficient service, thanks.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Maepa Zinzi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ms. Washa is committed to her work and serving people. She is  exceptional and efficient in doing her work. She is greatly appreciated and I recommend her services.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   bianca wang 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. J Bredenkamp has been my lawyer for all my legal services. They are professional and are always willing to help me completely understand. The firm makes sure to do anything for my best interest. With this law firm on my side, I feel most confident.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Michael Feldner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amanda Mare provided us with excellent and professional service on our  property transaction. Frequent, inclusive communication and thinking of every detail. Very impressive.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   LC K 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ellen managed my aunt's estate after her passing and we cannot thank her enough.  Ellen demonstrated not only knowledge, dedication and professionalism in her work, but also personal compassion and warmth for our family in the midst of a sad and difficult time. We were kept informed at every step of the process.  Any questions were answered promptly and clearly. Ellen is an exceptional professional in an exceptional team!  Highly, highly recommended.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anisa Bhamjee 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. J Bredenkamp Attorneys have conducted the matters of both my Late Parents' Estate with sound legal practices, professionalsim and tender compassion that I needed facing my loss. Furthermore, they helped me navigate difficulties with sound advice. Amanda Mare was invaluable to me because her approach was caring, kind and she was always accessible. They are trustworthy and Amanda always explained procedures simply. Many thanks for your service Amanda. Anisa
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jenny Ghoos 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely the best service - 100%.  I would definitely recommend using them.

Comprehensive legal solutions

Last Will and Testament: Testamentary Trusts, Drafting & Intestate Advice

Foreign Grants of Probate & Offshore Asset Administration

Heir Mediation, Estate Arbitration, Litigation & Dispute Resolution

Estate Administration, Executor Appointment & Master’s Office Reporting

Tax Compliance, Estate Duty, SARS Coordination & Foreign Tax

Notarisation, Authentication, Apostilling Services, Elder Wellness & Support

Commercial & Residential Property Transfers, Conveyancing, Bond Registrations & Cancellations

Letters of Executorship + Authority & Estate Planning

Trusts, Fiduciary Relations, Marriage Contracts & Legal Advice

Frequently asked questions

What is my estate?

Your estate consists of all your assets (property, cash, shares, investments, motor vehicles etc.) and all your liabilities (debt, unpaid tax, maintenance etc.). This INCLUDES foreign property – chat to us about your foreign will first.

How long will it take to finalise my estate?

On average it will take 7 to 18 months to finalise the estate however, there are exceptions depending on the complexity and nature of your matter. We are certainly quicker to respond than a call centre!

Will I pay death taxes?

The correct term for this is estate duty. Estate duty is only levied on estates valued at R 3 500 000 and more – so yes, the estate will pay estate duty. There are also exceptions to paying estate duty. This can be reduced depending on the exclusions available. Our estate administrators can discuss this with you or your family in detail, and we can furnish you with relevant tax considerations in advance.

What is the executor's fee?

Executor’s fees are prescribed in terms of the Administration of Deceased Estates Act 66 of 1965. Currently the fee is 3.5% on the gross value of the estate. This is the fee the executor charges to wind up the estate of a deceased person, subject to certain reductions.

Are executor's fee negotiable?

When an executor is needed, the family may discuss this with the appointed executor directly. Executor’s fees are negotiable at his / her discretion however, the law does provide for the executor to charge 3.5% of the gross estate value.

What happens if there is no cash in an estate and only a car and house?

When this happens then there is a cash shortfall in the estate. This does not mean the estate is insolvent. What the executor will request from the heir is to either pay in the cash shortfall or request permission to sell the asset/s to obtain the cash in the estate. Often our firm is able to provide interim cashflow assistance depending on the nature of the estate in question.

info@executorlaw.co.za · Mon – Fri 08:30am-4:30pm

Testimonials

Thank you for all your advice and guidance in the sale of the home, distribution of the trust assets, and the administration of the estate. It has been such a pleasure dealing with you – so pleased I found you.

“

Confidential - Channel Islands

Thank you for the service you have provided to me over the months since we met in May this year. I feel comfort in having you available to my wife and family in the event of my passing.

“

Confidential - South Africa

Winding it all up and leaving our home of 18 years was difficult and emotional. However, you provided a calm and steady service all the way. All the staff were professional, at all times, and we would recommend this law firm with no hesitation.

“

Confidential - Germany

Connect with a specialist

Please complete the form below if you have any questions or require assistance. Alternatively, you may call us on +27 (0) 79 394 2574 or email us at info@executorlaw.co.za

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