Plan Today, Protect Tomorrow: Top Estate Planning Attorneys in Sandton

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy or elderly, nor is it solely about distributing assets after you pass away. It’s about control, certainty, and safeguarding the well-being of your loved ones, today and in the future. As a tax-efficient roadmap to your legacy, a robust estate plan minimises family disputes, legal entanglements, and unexpected financial burdens. Let our estate planning attorneys assist you.

Located in Sandton and serving the broader Johannesburg area, Michael Krawitz & Co. is recognised as a leading authority among estate planning attorneys in Sandton. Our mission is to help clients strategically tailor their estate plans, regardless of their wealth or family structure, so they can plan effectively today and protect their future.

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services Offered

Wills and Testamentary Wills: Your will is the cornerstone of estate law. Our estate planning attorneys in Sandton guide you in crafting wills that reflect your intentions, while protecting the inheritance of minor children, special-needs dependents, and charitable organisations.
Trust Formation and Administration: We specialise in establishing trusts, such as discretionary, asset-protection, and family trusts, to safeguard assets against creditors, divorce settlements, and tax inefficiencies.
Estate Duty and Tax Planning: Working with seasoned tax advisors, we identify and implement strategic legal structures to reduce estate duty, capital gains tax, and donations tax, preserving more of your wealth for your intended beneficiaries.
Succession Planning and Business Continuity: As family businesses transition across generations, we help craft seamless transition plans to avoid internal disputes and disruptions to business continuity. We tailor shareholder agreements and vesting clauses to suit your needs.
Powers of Attorney and Life Affairs: In anticipation of illness or incapacity, we assist with drafting enduring and general powers of attorney for property and personal affairs. We also support the appointment of medical practitioners for life decisions.
Enduring Wills and Advance Directives: We draft reliable medical directives, such as living wills and organ donation preferences, to clarify your wishes regarding healthcare, life support, and final medical procedures.
Estate Administration and Executor Support: When loss occurs, our firm provides swift and compassionate guidance through estate administration, including executor training, SARS submissions, and court applications.

What Makes Michael Krawitz & Co. Stand Out

Sandton-Based Expertise: We are locally equipped and globally minded. Our team understands regional real estate nuances, tax law, and client demographics.
Personalised Legal Solutions: No two estates are alike. Each plan is customised to your unique objectives, values, and family dynamics.
Collaborative Legal Advice: We work closely with fiduciaries, accountants, and healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive estate plans that withstand the test of time.
Ethics and Excellence: We maintain the highest standards of legal due diligence, confidentiality, and regulatory compliance.
Legacy-Focused Approach: Your plan isn’t just a legal document; it’s a reflection of your life, achievements, and long-term vision for your loved ones.

FAQs About Estate Planning Attorneys in Sandton

What is an estate planning attorney, and why do I need one?

An estate planning attorney legally formalises and implements your wishes regarding asset distribution, healthcare, and decision-making. They ensure compliance with South African law and reduce the risk of family disputes or costly litigation.

When should I start estate planning?

Ideally, as soon as you begin accumulating assets or have dependents. Even young families benefit from a basic estate plan. We also support revisions for significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, childbirth, or business decisions.

How much does professional estate planning cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of assets, trusts, or business structures. We provide transparent and consistent fee schedules, offering packages and bespoke options tailored to your specific needs.

Do I need a trust or a will?

Wills serve as the foundation, but trusts can provide extra protection, privacy, and flexibility. We help you decide if a trust benefits your estate, especially for high-value assets or sensitive beneficiaries.

What happens if I don’t plan?

Without proper estate planning, your assets may be distributed under intestacy laws, which could trigger delays, higher taxes, and disputes among your heirs.

What is an executor, and should I nominate one?

An executor administers your estate after your passing. You may appoint a trusted estate planning attorney, a capable family member, or a professional trustee. We recommend suitable options for your specific situation.