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19 February 2021
We are all limited with what we can actually achieve at the moment in the current circumstances. But I am finding that clients are using this time as an opportunity to make sure their financial and legal affairs up to date. It could be a time to rationalise investments, to review your Will and to ensure you have Lasting Powers of Attorney in place.
Most matters can be dealt with remotely. The law has been temporarily changed so that Wills can be witnessed remotely, but this is not something I nor my colleagues are keen on. We are encouraging clients to either have Wills witnessed by two friends or neighbours in person, socially distanced and ideally outside, even if it is rather cold. Or we are meeting with clients to do this. Again, this can be done outside, or in our office where there is plenty of space to socially distance and all members of staff wear face coverings. Solicitors who deal with the execution of Wills are deemed to be key workers, so we can still travel to see you at home if necessary.
The other development which is welcome in these times of remote working, is that the Probate Registry’s online application system introduced last year is now fully operational. This has certainly increased the efficiency with which the Probate Registry deals with applications.
If you would like advice on any of these matters please contact Christine Butterfield on 01305 216205 or email: christine.butterfield@battens.co.uk for a free half hour appointment either in person, or by telephone or Zoom.
