We are experiencing unprecedented times and as such we wanted to update you on how we shall now be operating in light of the global outbreak of COVID-19.

Following Government guidance, we have suspended face to face client meetings until further notice. However, we will be providing client advice and taking instructions by means of remote meetings. 

We have been offering clients the choice of meetings by video conference for some time. This means we already have facilities in place to hold client meetings remotely. Telephone meetings are also available.

Our aim is to ensure continuity of service. Perhaps now more than ever, the need to make a Will and have your affairs in order has become vitally important. Our change in delivery of service can facilitate our clients in being able to do so.

Rest assured, there is no compromise on our expert advice or record keeping when meetings take place remotely.

For remote meetings:

• Clients join the video conference by simply clicking on a link previously provided to them by email.
• Clients are still subject to the relevant capacity checks before proceeding to give their instructions.
• Clients present and provide copies of their ID to prevent impersonation.
• We check we are speaking to the correct person when advising by telephone.
• We take into account undue influence – we record other persons who may be present and ask questions and make a record.
• We record and retain all information, including file notes and instructions, as we normally would and for the same length of time as we would for face-to-face meetings.

To make (or update) your Will, please get in touch. You can call 020 3488 3997 or email us at wills@ashtongrace.co.uk.

In the meantime, and in these extraordinary times, we trust that you will stay safe.

Ashton Grace – Specialists in Peace of Mind