Back in August 2020, we shared the news that witnessing wills on video became legal, due to the restraints of the pandemic.
The advancement in the law reflected the huge adaptation as a nation that we underwent during the lockdown to help protect our assets and loved ones.
Witnessing the signing of a Will makes it legally binding, making a person’s last wishes legally bound, clear and secured. Previously this had to be done in person. The introduction of being able to witness wills on video meant individuals could rest assured that, wherever they were and whatever restrictions they were under, the people closest to them were looked after in the will.
When we first went into lockdown and our offices closed, we managed clients over the phone and offered to get signatures and witnesses at a safe distance where it was possible. We spoke with clients through new technology and video software, many of us for the first time, while maintaining our high standards of client care.
Recently it has been announced that the legal capability to witness wills on video is to be extended until the 31st January 2024.
Since the introduction of witnessing wills on video, the New Law Journal shared stats from the Law Society that about 14% of legal professionals working on will making have used Zoom, FaceTime or similar software to facilitate remote witnessing. The quality of the sound and video must be sufficient to see and hear what is happening, and two witnesses are still required, to protect people against fraud and undue influence.
Protection of your assets
There are many stages in our lives when we consider writing or updating our will, but the onset of a global pandemic brought a reality to many of us. Our wills & probate team has been busy all the way through this crisis, helping people to plan their estates, and executing the wishes of others.
Remotely witnessing wills on video
In this extended change to the law, people can record their final wishes throughout the Coronavirus crisis, no matter what the reason is that they can’t do it face-to-face.
Two people must still be present, whether in a virtual or face-to-face situation, to ensure that people are protected against undue influence and fraud.
Remote witnessing and its legality was backdated to 31st January 2020. This meant that anything from this date onwards done via video is legally accepted.
Initially, this change in the law was only set to last a year, but now this will run until the 31st January 2024.
Use a reputable solicitor
Video calls have brought us closer to our families, colleagues and friends when we weren’t able to see them face-to-face. We then built up a level of trust for the person on the screen in front of us.
We want you to feel comfortable talking to our will writing specialists, and do all that we can to guide you through the process in a manner that is reassuring, friendly and thorough.
Please be aware, however, that just as there are ‘DIY will kits’ that people often use and get caught out with, there is likely to be some ‘cheap options’ out there offering a video witnessing service which may not be the most reputable of organisations.
When you write your will with a respected solicitor, you know that it will be done thoroughly because we are a regulated industry and have lots of standards to adhere to. Additionally, we are rated very highly on Review Solicitors, a third-party review site, by our clients. In fact, our firm is ranked number one in Manchester, should you require further peace of mind.
A format to suit you
Whether you are writing and having your will witnessed in person or digitally, we would highly recommend having a chat with our team first to see what solution we can provide for you.
Call us on 0161 969 3131 or request a call or email back here.