Can I do my estate planning virtually?

Many people today are looking for virtual solutions to what once were in-person activities. Whether for safety, convenience, or a little of both, virtual tools and connectivity are the preferred method for completing estate planning tasks for many people today.

Prior to the onset of COVID-19, estate planning tended to take a backseat for many young families, even though it is one of the most important things you can do to protect your future. In the last year, however, we’ve seen many more people make estate planning a priority as feelings of vulnerability, uncertainty, and health concerns became top-of-mind. That sense of urgency, however, has had to balance out with people’s reluctance to meet in-person. The solution: virtual estate planning.

Read on for everything you need to know about virtual estate planning and the services I offer at Margerie Law.

Virtual estate planning: how it works

As technology development goes into overdrive, it’s never been more convenient to start the estate planning process from home. While there are many online tools to help you create basic estate planning documents, the best method is always to work with an experienced attorney. It is easy to miss a step or make a mistake when working through an important document like a will or power of attorney, and doing so can lead to serious consequences.

At Margerie Law, I meet with clients over the phone and through video conferencing tools to answer questions, assess unique needs, and deliver important information every family needs to know. That’s the best part about hiring an estate planning lawyer – you don’t need to worry that you’ll miss something or make an error – we have you covered!

While 90% of the estate planning process can be done virtually, some documents need to be signed in person. Wisconsin was one of 29 states that adopted virtual document notarization early in the pandemic, but documents that need to be witnessed cannot be completed virtually. I will collect all the information I possibly can from you virtually, then we will meet briefly and safely to sign the necessary documents.

Safety protocols for in-person meetings

While the vast majority of estate planning tasks can be completed virtually, some documents – like a last will and testament – still need to be signed in the presence of two witnesses. When we get to that point, I will have you meet me at my offices in a secure, safely distanced space with a partition between us so we can complete the document signing. This process tends to go very quickly, so you can be safely on your way in no time at all.

The new normal

While virtual estate planning emerged out of the necessity to keep people safe at home, the convenience of phone and video consultations cannot be ignored. Many families I work with love the ease and efficiency of meeting with me from the comfort of their home or office, and I can see this trend continuing for years to come.

Whether you’re just starting the estate planning process or looking to update an existing plan, I can help. I’m Paul Margerie, and experienced estate planning lawyer serving individuals and families in Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Brookfield, Elm Grove, and beyond. I offer a variety of estate planning services, including powers of attorney, last will and testament creation, trusts and special needs trusts, and much more. Give me a call with questions or to get started today.