Rebecca MacGregor Writes “As I See It: Remote notarization would solve dilemma of signing a will during coronavirus crisis” for the Worcester Telegram

April 13, 2020

The Worcester Telegram has published “As I See It: Remote notarization would solve dilemma of signing a will during coronavirus crisis” by Rebecca MacGregor.  Most Americans under the age of 72 do not have a will, but the current COVID-19 pandemic has caused them to reconsider.  However, the current regulations to have a valid will do not fit with the precautions we are currently taking to prevent the spread of illness.  This article addresses this issue and proposes a solution to better suit these changing times.  Below is an excerpt from the article:

For a will to be valid in Massachusetts, the testator must sign in front of two disinterested witnesses; and for it to be self-proving, meaning the witnesses won’t be required to appear in probate court, a notary must watch the testator and the two witnesses sign, then the notary signs the document. During this pandemic, having four people together for a traditional signing of the will is downright dangerous, especially for anyone who has a pre-existing condition or lives with someone who does.

Continue reading the full article on the Worcester Telegram website.