When Boris Johnson put the country into lockdown, university-age children moved back home to their parents, middle-aged people moved their elderly relatives in with them. At a time of crisis, we want to be with those we love and who love us. We also start to think, what will happen to them if I’m not around?
Here at Breens Solicitors Southport we have seen an increased demand for our Will services. One question we are asked a lot is: “how do I get my will witnessed if I can’t come to the office?”
For your will to be legally valid, you must sign it in the physical presence of two witnesses. Your witnesses should then sign the will immediately after in your presence. Unfortunately, you cannot do this via a video link or an electronic signature, you must all be physically present at the signing.
You need two people who will not inherit from your estate to witness your signing the will. Given that you are likely to be living with those whom you wish to benefit after your death, this poses a particular problem as to where to find suitable witnesses.
Assuming you are on good enough terms with your neighbours, it is worth asking them to witness your will. They can do this from a distance, as long as they can see you sign, and can sign immediately thereafter. Needless to say, you should stay at least two metres away from them while signing, we would also recommend using separate pens, and washing your hands before and after the signing.
While there are no current plans to change the law about witnessing a Will, where there’s a Will, there is a way. It just takes thought, planning, and a lot of goodwill.
To make a legally binding, solicitor-drafted will call us today to book a telephone consultation with a member of our will-writing team.
Telephone: 01704 532 890
Email: debbie@breensonline.co.uk