If you are thinking about making a will during the current coronavirus pandemic, here are five tips to help.

1. There is no substitute for professional advice from a qualified lawyer

Ask yourself:

• Does your will allow for future changes in circumstance?

• Are your executors right for the job?

• Will inheritance tax be payable on your estate? Have you made use of available allowances or exemptions?

Your solicitor can advise on these points.

2. Use technology

It should be possible for you to give your instructions to your solicitor by phone or video call, to avoid meeting in person.

3. Execute the will correctly, while observing 'physical distancing'

Sign your will in the presence of two independent witnesses (who must not be beneficiaries), who must also sign in the presence of you and each other.

Maintain a safe distance between you and the witnesses, but ensure that you all have a clear view of the will and the signing process. Do not share a pen.

Do not allow your witnesses to watch the signing through a window. The validity of the will could be challenged.

If you have any doubts about executing your will correctly, consult a solicitor.

4. Check your will

Check your signed Will carefully. Send a scanned copy (or photographs) of the Will to your solicitor, for checking.

5. Storing your will

It's sufficient to bind your will with a single staple. Do not remove the staple (even for scanning/copying) and do not attach anything to the will. Problems arise if it appears that another document may have been attached.

Send the original will to your solicitor, or keep it securely at home and notify your solicitor/family of its location.

  • Megan Seabourne is a partner at award-winning law firm VWV, which has offices in Clarendon Road, Watford