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The Administration of Estates Act remains the primary legislation governing how deceased estates are handled in South Africa, but the method of meeting its advertising requirements has evolved. Following the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development’s confirmation on 13 February 2025, online publication is now officially recognised as a valid means of fulfilling statutory obligations. This ensures that executors and legal practitioners can remain fully compliant with the Administration of Estates Act by utilising approved digital platforms that meet the rigorous standards of Master’s Directive 1 of 2025.
READ MORE: Frequently asked questions about deceased estate notices in South Africa
The 2025 Directive and the Administration of Estates Act
For decades, the legal profession relied on traditional print media to satisfy the notice requirements set out in the Administration of Estates Act. However, as major newspapers move away from printed editions, the shift toward a digital justice ecosystem has become essential. The 2025 directive provides a clear legal framework, confirming that digitally published notices, specifically those under Section 29 and Section 35 of the Administration of Estates Act, carry the same legal standing as print, provided the platform guarantees visibility, permanence and verifiable proof of publication.
Modernising estate administration
At LegalNotice.co.za, our services are built to align with the Department’s broader digital transformation strategy. We provide the technical infrastructure required to support several key initiatives mentioned by the Department of Justice, including Deceased Estates Online, Trust Online and Insolvency Online.
By choosing our compliant online platform, you ensure that every notice published adheres to the evidentiary standards required by the courts. Our system is designed to serve the needs of rural practitioners, small firms and large legal departments alike, making the requirements of the Administration of Estates Act accessible to all without the prohibitive costs or limited circulation of regional print media.
Efficiency for the Legal Professional
We understand that legal secretaries and paralegals are the essential gatekeepers of estate finalisation. Our platform simplifies the workflow by providing digital proofs within 24 hours, ensuring that no deadlines are missed and every step taken is in accordance with the Administration of Estates Act. As the legal sector continues to move toward a fully digital ecosystem, aligning your practice with approved online publication platforms is the most effective way to stay modern and compliant.
For assistance, contact jana@legalnotice.co.za.
