Can You Inherit From Someone You Have Merely Been Living With?
29 January 2024, Ethan Du Toit
In South Africa, the number of couples who are permanently living together in life partnerships is increasing every year. What... are the consequences that would ensue if either of the partners in the relationship dies without a will? Should a surviving partner in such a scenario have a claim for inheritance or maintenance from the deceased estate? If yes, under what circumstances would a claim be allowed? The answer to these questions will be explored in light of the Bwanya v Master of the High Court, Cape Town and Others case.