On March 26, 2020, Illinois government executive order by Governor Pritzker authorized executing a will online using a 2-way audio-visual technology. The executive order was issued in response to the COVID pandemic and allows someone to work with an attorney and notary online and to maintain safe social distance, and was extended several times during the beginning of the pandemic. The implementation of virtual estate planning has gone very smoothly, and a new Illinois Law allows virtual estate planning to continue permanently.
On June 12, 2020, the executive order was signed into law. Virtual estate planning documents are legal and enforceable in Illinois, provided they are executed following all Illinois laws and regulations. Although initiated for health and safety reasons, online estate planning is also convenient for people. It is not always easy to meet in person with an attorney. People travel, have health restrictions or may be housebound due to weather. Virtual estate planning allows someone to work with an attorney using technology such as a phone, tablet or computer to electronically execute legally valid and enforceable wills, trusts, powers of attorney, guardianships and other types of legal documents.
Attorneys using virtual estate planning use technology to safeguard their client’s privacy and protect the validity of their legal documents. The technology a client must use to execute a virtual estate plan is:
1. An email address
2. Video conference tool such as FaceTime, Zoom, Skype or another conferencing system
3. The ability to scan and upload documents
At the Estate and Probate Legal Group, our virtual estate planning services are identical to our traditional services – EXCEPT we use technology to meet face-to-face, privately and confidentially. Technology allows our clients to meet with us from the safety and convenience of their home, rather than coming to our offices.
Learn More:
• What Is Virtual Estate Planning?
• Are Virtual Wills and Healthcare Directives Legal?
Do you have questions about virtual estate planning and protecting your loved ones? Our experienced estate planning attorneys in Cook, Dupage, Kane, Lake, and Will counties in Illinois can advise you on the best options to protect your assets and loved ones. To talk to an estate planning attorney contact the Estate & Probate Legal Group at 630-687-9100.