How can I sign a Will if I am self-isolating?
Ordinarily, a will must be signed by the willmaker (also known as the "testator") in the presence of two independent adult witnesses in order to be valid.
In light of the current Covid-19 pandemic, the Victorian Government has made temporary new laws and regulations that allow Wills and some other documents to be signed using electronic means and audiovisual links. There are still formalities that are required.
By coming to RNG Lawyers, you can be confident that your Will has been executed properly – either in person or remotely.
If you are not able to come to our office, we are flexible and will work with you on a solution based on your circumstances. You may be self-isolating, in quarantine or otherwise vulnerable.
Our team has a variety of options to assist you or your loved ones finalise documents, including:
- Meeting with you outdoors;
- Breaking up appointments so that our face-to-face time is as short as possible;
- Sending you documents to sign in front of others with detailed instructions; and
- Utilising technology to sign your documents remotely in accordance with the new scheme.
If you are able to meet with us face-to-face, our offices are still open and we will continue to meet with clients to finalise documents until we are advised otherwise. We will take precautions to ensure the safety of yourself, our staff and our other clients at these meetings.
Please note however that the position is continually changing and we will continue to rely upon governmental advice.
Our strategy may also change following further advice and directives from the courts, our industry bodies and professional indemnity insurers as well any relevant changes in the law.
