Readers may be aware of a new business model being launched where the legal profession is encouraged to ‘sign up’ to check online computer-generated wills for free. For more complex wills, the lawyer is able to charge for the service – but at no point would the lawyer meet the client. In return, there is the hope that the personal representatives will use that lawyer for the eventual probate work.

Solicitors for the Elderly believes there is a significant risk of resulting problems attached to undertaking work in this manner. There will be doubt as to the instructing person’s identity, and an inability to establish the mental capacity of the client, any conflict, and influences or pressure that may have been applied.

It is vital that the profession takes a stand against such practices and we hope that the Law Society will take some lead in raising public awareness of these risks.

Caroline Bielanska, Chair, Solicitors for the Elderly