It is not surprising in the current climate that we are seeing a huge increase in the number of people asking to make new Wills or updating existing out of date ones that they already hold. A global pandemic certainly concentrates the mind. People are usually quite aware of the issues that can arise if you don’t leave an up to date Will, but it is just one of those things that many don’t quite get around to sorting out.

But how do I sort my Will, whilst I am working from home and trying to home school my children? Or, how do I do my Will whilst I am self -isolating? Is there anything else I should be thinking about to make sure my affairs are in order?

The Law Society and Solicitors for the Elderly Group have both been putting some pressure on the Government to introduce emergency changes to the law to relax the rules about witnessing Wills. For now, however, the rules remain as they have for a long time. A Will is only valid if signed in front of two witnesses, who are both present at the same time and who both see the testator signing. The witnesses must then also sign the document.

Initial contact can be made with your professional advisor by telephone or email and Will instructions can be given over video calls. Wills can then be signed at a safe social distance arranged by your professional advisor. Alternatively, you can sign at home with two neighbours looking at a safe social distance over the garden fence or through a window.

Whilst reviewing your Will, it is also a good time to think about whether you ought to be setting up Powers of Attorney documents in case you become ill and require a family member or other person to be able to manage your affairs for you.

Whatever your requirement there is no better time to put your affairs in order, whilst we are all spending more time at home with our families and have the chance to discuss matters. The team at Berrymans Solicitors are here to help so call us to discuss your requirements.

 

CAPTION: Donna Bothamley, Partner and Head of the Wills & Probate Department