ESTATE PLANNING AND COVID-19
Jacobowitz & Gubits wishes all of our clients well during these challenging times. Although we are working remotely, we are fully functional via telephone, email and video conference. One thing many people are thinking about these days is estate planning. Wills and trusts are something that people frequently put off, but now that so many of us have slowed down and are at home with family, it’s the perfect time to get organized and make a plan.
Remote Capabilities and Notarization:
All our estate planning consultations remain free. We are available via Zoom, Skype, Facetime, and the telephone to meet and talk.
Will and trust signings shall continue. Wills can be signed at your home with two independent witnesses – while we are connected electronically. Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Healthcare Proxies, and Deeds can similarly be signed remotely. In instances where a notary is required, we now able to do so via video link by Executive Order of the Governor.
Alternatively, if you are not onboard with remote signings, you can get everything set up, review and discuss drafts of your documents with us, and then come into our office to execute them at the appropriate time in the future.
Evaluating The Plan You Have Now:
For all clients (including new and prospective clients), we will gladly conduct a free review of any estate planning documents that you already have in place. Feel free to email us anything that you’d like us to review. We will also review beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance, and other accounts, so that we have the full picture. It’s important for your estate plan to stay as accurate, up-to-date, and reflective of your wishes as possible. If life circumstances have changed, it could be time for an update.
Copies of Your Estate Planning Documents:
The most imminently important document in the time of coronavirus is your Health Care Proxy, which appoints an agent to handle medical decisions for you in the event of your inability or incapacity. Please be sure that you have copies available, should you need them. If you are a current client of ours, and you require a copy, please do not hesitate to call us.
Please contact us or call us at (845) 764-9656 with any your legal needs and concerns.
During this difficult time, know that all of us at J&G are working hard to continue to provide a full range of services to our clients.
Please stay healthy and well. We hope to see you back at the office soon!
Click here to email our Estate Planning Group
Click here to read more articles regarding Estate Planning and other areas of law
Click here to read the Coronavirus Resource Page created for businesses and individuals
This is not intended to be legal advice. You should contact an attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.
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Michael Wagner is senior counsel concentrating on elder law and estate planning, wills and trusts. He conducts several Estate Planning Seminars throughout the year.
He can be reached by phone at 866-303-9595 toll free or 845-764-9656 and by email.
