Life as we know it has changed in an unprecedented way. Some are saying that it will never be exactly the same. Rather than looking at the changes that have occurred as frightening, scary or depressing; it is better to try and use these difficult times to grow stronger and improve. I believe in this community and I am certain we will work together to emerge stronger and more resilient than ever from this pandemic.
As an essential business, Jones Elder Law remains open and continues to serve clients on a daily basis through the pandemic. People’s needs have not gone away simply because Covid 19 altered our daily lives and community interaction. That does not mean that things are operating the way they always have. To keep our clients and ourselves safe, we have had to react to the changes and develop a plan for “Minimal Contact Planning.”
For years our colleagues in New York, New Jersey and California have been holding virtual meetings. We have always resisted this approach. I created my own practice because I like people and I truly enjoy working with families to guide them through the estate planning and elder law process. The idea of doing that via video conference didn’t seem like it would allow for the development of the same level of relationship. Covid 19 is definitely teaching this dog and Jones Elder Law some new tricks.
When people are afraid for their health and no longer feel comfortable with in person meetings, you have to alter the way you do things. Enter our plan for “Minimal Contact Planning.” Under the Minimal Contact Planning process, our initial meetings are done telephonically or via video conference. As long as the clients have a computer and minimal computer ability, we can establish a zoom meeting and be looking and talking to each other throughout the meeting. I, for one, definitely, prefer the zoom meetings because there is real value in being able to see each other. Under either approach we are able to walk the clients through the planning process and make sure we are developing a plan that meets their needs.
Once the documents have been drafted, we can handle the document signing in a no contact format or a minimal contact format. Both Missouri and Illinois have implemented orders for virtual document signings during the pandemic. So, a client can execute documents from the safety of their own home while the law firm’s witnesses and notary watch them. Many of our clients have chosen our “Curbside Document Execution” approach. Under the “Curbside Document Execution,” the client stays in their car and the documents are brought to them. The documents are signed in front of witnesses and the notary who are a safe distance away or watching through a window in the office. If you or your family are struggling with any Missouri or Illinois estate planning decisions, make an appointment with the experienced St. Charles County Estate Planning Attorneys at Jones Elder Law. That way, you can decide what happens to the assets you worked so hard to build. If we can help you get started, contact our St. Charles County estate planning law firm at (636) 812-2575 and ask to schedule a virtual consultation.
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