Making your Will in this Covid-19 Pandemic, made easy!
Has this COVID-19 crisis got you thinking about putting your affairs in order?
Jackson Longe Solicitors can help! We have adopted measures to ensure the pandemic doesn’t stop you, whilst keeping you safe by following the guidelines of the Law Society and the government.
We thought you may have some questions:
1. Is now a good time to make a will?
Absolutely! Undoubtedly, with this current state of pandemic comes uncertainty. Both personal and financial security matters now more than ever. No one wishes it but the unfortunate loss of loved ones can be reeling to say the least and so ensuring that the ones we leave behind are adequately provided is not only a prudent but a truly loving gesture.
2. How can I make or sign my will if you cannot meet with me in person?
Here at Jackson Longe, we are happy to offer telephone or video link conferences to discuss your wishes as well as provide advice. Once the drawn-up terms of your Will have been approved by you, we will send your Will to you with clear instructions on how to sign them.
If you prefer of course, we can arrange for you to attend our office taking all the precaution to ensure our mutual safety.
3. What about if I am self-isolating or shielding? Who will act as my witness?
As you may be aware, the government are considering temporary changes to the laws regarding the signing and witnessing of Wills to ensure ease of access for everyone, despite the difficulties COVID-19 has imposed upon us.
Currently, the law relating to the validity of a Will states that a Will must be signed ‘in the presence of’ at least two witnesses. However, because of the isolating or shielding restrictions, some people have understandably no access to others for the time being.
The government is therefore now considering reforms to enable one witness and sign another’s Will via video link, as long as the picture and sound quality is of an acceptable standard. This can be done using real time video link platforms such as Zoom, Skype and Facetime.
Therefore, if you are currently self-isolating, shielding, hospitalised, unable to travel or would just rather not have face to face contact; you can be rest assured that it is possible to meet the requirement of 2 witnesses in a manner that you keeps you safeguarded as well as protected from fraud.
These reforms will be backdated and are likely to remain in place until 31 January 2022 at the least.
Justice Secretary & Lord Chancellor, Rt Hon Robert Buckland QC MP, said:
‘’We are pleased that more people are taking the incredibly important step to plan for the future by making a will. We know that the pandemic has made this process more difficult, which is why we are changing law to ensure that wills witnessed via video technology are legally recognised.
Our measures will give peace of mind to many that their last wishes can still be recorded during this challenging time, while continuing to protect the elderly and vulnerable’’.
Simon Davis, president of the Law Society of England and Wales, also said:
‘’ The government’s decision to allow wills to be witnessed remotely for the next two years will help alleviate the difficulties that some members of the public have encountered when making wills during the pandemic. The Law Society is glad to see that guidance has been issued to minimise fraud and abuse. We look forward to working with government to ensure the reform is robust and successful’’.
4. Good! So how do I started with writing my Will?
It’s super simple!
Simply follow this link to complete our standard Wills Questionnaire online. Once completed, it is sent to us in a matter of seconds.
Wills by Jackson Longe Solicitors
We would be delighted to assist you in making your Will.
Remember, if you already have a Will, we can also help you with updating this to reflect your new wishes or additions!
For free preliminary advice or should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0208 332 2069 or via email: info@jacksonlonge.com
For our Fees and to find out more about our services, click here.
NB: It is important to note that the Ministry of Justice reiterates that, the use of video technology should remain a last resort, and we will continue to arrange physical witnessing of wills where it is safe to do so.