Covid-19 and Wills

Covid-19 has certainly changed the way in which we live our day to day lives and made a strange new world for all of us.

In a time of wanting to put our affairs in order, it is important to discuss Wills with a solicitor, as fear about what the future may bring can sometimes lead to people making rash decisions. Discussions with a solicitor can help to highlight those issues, which need to be considered, based on personal circumstances and an individual’s estate. Wills are not a ‘one size fits all’ solution to how your estate is managed following your death.

Traditionally, we have relied upon face-to-face meetings for the taking of initial instructions, right through to the physical presence of the Will-maker and two witnesses to put the document in place at the end of the process. However, with the current restrictions, people’s safety is paramount. So how do you put a Will in place but ensure that you are not putting yourself and others at risk?

At Ramsdens, we are committed to doing whatever we can to help you in this tricky time, to give you peace of mind. So in for the foreseeable future, all instructions can be taken over the phone or by video chat; draft documents emailed or posted and when it comes to the signing we would recommend arranging for a witness through a door or window whilst sticking to the 2m social distancing rules. Further precautions can be made by washing your hands before and after and using your own pen.

So whilst Covid-19 has made a strange new world for us all, despite the restrictions, it is not impossible to put your affairs in order and we are here to help where we can.