COVID19 – Will signings
Our Private Client team have had a significant number of queries from our clients in relation to having their Wills signed and witnessed. We have therefore prepared a quick-fire question and answer that should hopefully alleviate any concerns about having your Will completed.
Of course, any questions or queries that you may have, please do not hesitate to contact our Private Client team on 01206 577676 or email [email protected].
The team continue to work as normal, albeit remotely and are able to assist you at this very unfamiliar time.
“Despite being in lockdown, I’d like to make changes to my current Will. Can I still amend my Will?”
Yes. Our team are able to assist you in amending your Will.
If anyone is considering creating a new Will or would like to make changes to their current Will, then please do not be put off this unfamiliar time, we are able to offer telephone and video appointments instead of face-to-face. Please see further below in how to have your Will completed.
“My Will is ready to sign, who can be my witnesses?”
Your two witnesses must be independent to the testator. We advise these not to be members of your family, particularly if they are beneficiaries within the Will, they cannot act as your witnesses. If you have neighbours or local friends that could help, then that would be ideal.
“How can we get the Will signed due to social distancing?”
It is important to stick to the social distancing guidelines when signing your Will and to ensure that you keep a safe distance apart, if possible, the Will can be signed outside to ensure everyone is adhering to the guidelines.
“I am self-isolating; can my witnesses stand outside my window and watch me sign the Will?”
The important part here is that your witnesses must watch you sign your Will. They do not need to know the contents of the Will, but they must see your Will and see you sign it.
It is then possible to pass the Will to your witnesses through the window or your letter box. Ensure the Will is placed within an envelope when passing between you. As you are self-isolating, it might be sensible for all parties to wear gloves and use your own individual pens so as to minimise contact with any documents.
“I am unable to find any witnesses!”
If this is the case, then please contact your fee earner within our private client team who will be able to discuss this with you further.
“My Will has now been signed and witnessed, what do I need to do now?”
If you are able to, then please return this to the office so that we can check everything is in order and we will store your Will within our secure storage facility. If you are self-isolating, your Will needs to be stored in a safe and secure place until it is safe for you to return the Will to us. It is very important you notify us that the Will has been completed in the meantime.
If you would like any advice from our Private Client department
Contact GoodyBurrett on 01206 577676 or email [email protected]