The legal world is quietly embracing technology that could change the way families plan their estates. One of the most significant developments in recent years has been the introduction of digital signatures for certain legal documents — including Wills, Trusts, and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA’s).
For centuries, the law required that Wills be signed in ink, witnessed in person, and stored as paper documents. While this tradition offered certainty, it also created practical problems. During the pandemic, many people discovered how difficult it was to arrange in-person signings, especially for elderly or vulnerable individuals.
In response, the UK government temporarily allowed remote witnessing via video link — and that step has now sparked a wider conversation about modernising estate planning.
The Law Commission is reviewing the long-term use of electronic Wills, and while full legalisation has not yet occurred, the trend is clear. More solicitors and estate planning professionals are adopting secure digital systems to prepare, share, and store client documents. These systems help to reduce errors, improve accessibility, and provide clients with greater flexibility.
For business owners and property investors, the benefits are particularly strong. Using digital tools can speed up the creation of Wills and Trusts, ensure that sensitive documents are encrypted, and make it easier to update your affairs when circumstances change.
However, as with any new technology, there are also risks. Cybersecurity, identity verification, and data privacy are all vital considerations. It’s essential that clients only use reputable estate planning firms that comply with professional standards and use approved digital systems.
At The Legacy Wills Company, we’re committed to combining traditional legal safeguards with modern efficiency. We ensure that our clients’ documents are valid, secure, and built to stand the test of time — both legally and digitally.