The legislation, which was first passed in 2020, that allows for Wills to be witnessed via virtual means in England and Wales due to the COVID-19 pandemic has been extended until January 2024. Though the amendment was originally due to end 31 January 2022, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has deemed it necessary to remain in place, as many continue to isolate.

A year ago, we reflected on one of the most unpredictable and uncertain years in our lifetimes due to the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Looking back, most industry news and headlines directly, or indirectly, mentioned the pandemic and the impact it had on our professional and personal lives.

Looking back to our first blog of 2020 where we predicted what could make headlines throughout the year, there was definitely a prediction that did not make the list – a global pandemic that would affect our personal and professional lives in unprecedented ways. Aside from the pandemic, we saw some other news that impacted the estate administration industry, as well as accomplishments from Kings Court Trust that have affected how we work with each of you.

In August, we published a blog on the changes being made to the Wills Act 1837, which prescribes how Wills are to be created in the UK. These changes are have now taken effect, so how do professionals feel about the amendment? They’re quite torn.