Private Client update regarding Covid -19

I am writing to share key pieces of advice and information which I believe you urgently need.

Here is a commentary piece from Lesley King and Roman Kubiak: Wills in a time of social distancing and self-isolation. We also have a blog from our Private Client Section Council member Melinda Giles about overcoming the restrictions for will writing, and a Coronavirus Q&A from our Wills & Equity Chair Ian Bond.

I know members will have questions about the implications of COVID-19 for their clients, businesses, professional obligations, their own wellbeing and that of their employees. Wills are one of the priority issues for us regarding COVID-19. We have liaised with the Ministry of Justice and the Solicitors Regulation Authority about legislative and regulatory concerns regarding executing wills, including requirements for witnessing wills and the use of video conferencing facilities. The SRA have now updated their guidance for solicitors who practice in this area, and the MoJ are reviewing options for possible further measures.

You may be also be interested in the our Coronavirus advice on:

• legal practitioners as key workers
• general practice advice and updates 
• safety in courts.

We are keeping the coronavirus situation under review and our online resources will be updated regularly to reflect the most recent guidance.

Other recent news includes new forms to apply for a grant of representation and changes to capital gains tax for UK residential property.

I know many members will be keen to read our new guidance note on VAT treatment of disbursements and expenses. Talking of guidance this might also be a good time to look at our Practice Advice Service technical Q & As on the Finance (No.2) Act 2017: tax changes for non-UK domiciliaries and trusts.

Best Wishes

Denise Murphy
Private Client Section product manager,
The Law Society.