GUARDIANS FOR CHILDREN

If you have minor children, it is crucial to nominate a guardian in your will. This person will care for your child if you pass away. The appointment process depends entirely on your current family structure:

  • Natural Co-Guardianship: If both parents are alive, your child has two natural guardians. Your court-appointed guardian only steps in if both parents die simultaneously.
  • Sole Guardianship: If you are the sole guardian, your nominated guardian assumes immediate responsibility upon your death.

Rights and Responsibilities Under the Children’s Act

According to the Children’s Act (38 of 2005), a nominated guardian who accepts the role acquires full parental rights and responsibilities. When choosing a guardian, carefully consider their:

  • Cultural background and personal value system
  • Religious beliefs
  • Geographical location
  • Financial stability

The legal guardian will manage your child's schooling, extra-mural activities, and vocational guidance. They will also administer inherited property and represent the minor in legal and contractual matters until they turn 18.

Tip: Always appoint an alternative guardian in your will in case your primary choice is unable or unwilling to take on the role.

Contractual Capacity & The Guardian’s Fund Pitfall

Children under 18 lack contractual capacity and cannot directly inherit. This creates significant structural challenges:

  • Cash inheritances: Paid into the state-run Guardian’s Fund, which administers the money until the child reaches the age of majority.
  • Fixed property: Must be administered by the legal guardian until the child turns 18.

The Problem: Relying on state funds or leaving complex property assets to individuals can lead to severe bureaucratic delays and financial strain.

The Strategic Alternative: A Testamentary Trust

You can bypass these challenges by creating a testamentary trust within your will. By naming the trust as the beneficiary of the assets meant for your minor children, you ensure that:

  • Assets transfer directly to the trust upon your passing.
  • Your children's inheritance remains protected and professionally managed.
  • Funds are readily accessible for their needs, completely avoiding government red tape.