For clients worried that COVID-19 has made conditions too dangerous to move ahead with signing estate-planning documents or incorporation papers, Friedman, Grimes, Meinken & Leischner PLLC partner Gretchyn Meinken has two words: “Fear not!”
“We’ve implemented measures to allow our clients to execute their documents during the pandemic,” says Meinken. “Meetings are being conducted through phone calls and video conferences”
The process can be completed remotely until the actual time of signing. You will receive drafts of your documents and a review of these documents can be conducted virtually. After this is completed, we will then schedule a time to conduct the signing.”
How Are Signings Being Conducted with Safe Social Distancing?
While some legal documents these days, like contracts, can be signed electronically, the laws are not as flexible when it comes to executing estate planning documents. A will, for example, requires two witnesses and a notary to be present at the time of signing.
Wade Grimes has staff who will fulfill those positions at the time of signing to make the process as easy as possible. Clients can either come into the office for a socially distanced signing, or schedule a drive-up signing.
- Drive-up Signings: “We prepare everything ahead of time,” says Meinken. “The client brings their own pens and stays in the car while we provide their documents for initialing and signing.” The two witnesses and the notary stay outside by the car.
- Office Signings: “We use our conference room, spacing the seats apart to allow for proper social distancing,” Meinken explains. “We ask that our clients and all staff wear masks. Clients need to bring their own pen.”
The bottom line: Wade Grimes clients have safe options for signing legal documents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Friedman, Grimes, Meinken & Leischner PLLC is here for you during this difficult time by continuing to remain open and fully functioning. Whether you’re having a family law, protective order, estate planning, bankruptcy or criminal law-related issue, our attorneys are available for phone or video consultations to meet your needs. To schedule a consultation, email or contact us through our website and we will respond promptly.
About the Author
Gretchyn G. Meinken
Gretchyn Meinken grew up in a U.S. Army family, living in Germany for the majority of her childhood. She moved to the Washington, D.C. Metro area after completing a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Alabama in 2000. Ms. Meinken now calls Alexandria, Virginia home after residing here since 2001 (her longest stint in any one place).
Ms. Meinken focuses her practice on estate planning and administration, as well as general corporate law and taxation. She represents individuals, estates, trusts, partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations.
