Rebecca is a Solicitor here at QualitySolicitors Jordans after completing her Traineeship and qualifying with a Masters degree. Specialising in Private Client matters, she can assist you with Conveyancing, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Wills and Probate. Here, she provides some guidance on the signing of Wills during the current pandemic.
Our Private Client department is still operating offering; Estate planning, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Wills and all aspects of Probate. Although we are not offering face-to-face appointments at the present time, we are offering telephone and video appointments to enable us to take your instructions.
All of our advisors are fully trained in all aspects of the services we provide, enabling them to deal with all queries you may have, ensuring that you receive the best advice and assistance possible.
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all businesses and law firms are no different. As a result, the formalities of signing a Will have become slightly more complex. Nevertheless, this does not mean that it cannot be done as long as you follow the rules and precautions which we will guide you through.
Your Will must be signed or marked by you in the presence of two independent witnesses, meaning that all three parties should be present at the same time. Your witnesses must be aged 18 over and cannot be your family members or beneficiaries named in your Will. Following these guidelines during the current lockdown and whilst also adhering to the social distancing guidelines set out by the Government can be challenging however, it is still possible and can be achieved.
Gardens are an ideal place to sign your Will allowing you to adhere to the 2 meter distancing guidelines. Your Will can be witnessed by neighbours through a window or from the garden gate, as long as all three of you are present together and see each other sign. Unfortunately, the current Laws of England and Wales state that this cannot be done via facetime or any other remote video chat service and must be done in person. Each person should use their own pen and wash their hands immediately after handling the Will.
Whichever method you choose for the signing of your Will, the key point is that both witnesses watch you sign and also sign themselves.
If you are uncertain on how to sign your Will or unsure if the steps you have already taken may invalidate your Will, please contact the Office and speak to the Lawyer instructed. They will be happy to provide you with any further assistance over the phone.
Most importantly, please stay safe in these difficult times.