As with many small businesses in Illinois, we are on lockdown until April 7, 2020. For most purposes, our physical offices are closed, but all of our staff have remote capabilities, our phone system works and many of us can video conference. So we’re still here if you need us.
Unfortunately, when signing Illinois estate planning documents, Illinois law does not currently permit remote witnessing and notarization. So, you still need to meet face to face (well, 6 feet away while looking at someone else’s face) to sign certain documents, such as wills and powers of attorney. If you need that during quarantine, just let us know, and we can open the office to witness and notarize. We have enough space in our conference rooms to be socially distant.
While coronavirus is forcing many of us out of our daily routines, it’s also an important reminder to get your estate planning done. In this issue of “The Elder Law Minute,” we’ll provide helpful information on what documents you need to have in place to ensure the well-being of your children, your parents and yourself. One thing’s for sure, having an estate plan has never been more important, and we’re here to help if you need it.