Going the extra mile to make wills happen

Going the extra mile to help clients in their 80s who were shielding, Lucy Willmett’s professional, efficient and thorough support drew the clients’ praise.

The husband and wife who live in Herefordshire needed to update their wills and suggested several changes, on some of which Lucy advised caution. Once the wills were ready for signing, the clients had to overcome the difficulties of having them witnessed while needing to stay safe during the Covid-19 crisis.

The husband said: “In light of Covid-19 and both of us being over 80, we were loath to ask neighbours to witness our wills. Initially we thought to attend your offices… the outcome was Ms Willmett’s offer to complete witnessing here at our home, which she did with a second signatory on 25 March. The whole process was short and smooth and conducted in an efficient and charming manner.

“She is to be commended for her professionalism efficiency and her personal presentation…you are lucky that Ms Willmett is a member of your team.”

David King, Partner in the Wills, Trusts and Estates team, said: “I am delighted that Lucy literally went the extra few miles to help clients at such a difficult time; we are indeed lucky to have her on the team.”

Although the HCR team is now drafting, updating and finalising wills using technology such as Zoom and Skype, they are also able to visit clients at home or wherever they are. Solicitors involved in this work are identified as key workers and so able to travel.

Because wills in England still need to be witnessed in person, some practical steps can be taken to ensure that that happens safely for everyone involved; Lucy and other members of the private client team will be glad to help.