Media release - 15 May 2020
Queensland’s peak legal body has welcomed new state government regulations to permit electronic signing and virtual witnessing of wills and enduring powers of attorney in response to challenges caused by the global coronavirus pandemic.
Queensland Law Society President Luke Murphy said solicitors have been facing serious challenges in assisting clients to make legally binding wills and get their affairs in order with quarantine and isolation requirements.
"Consultation with the Queensland Government has been excellent and we are pleased to see this measure being made as a result of crucial emergency legislation," Mr Murphy said.
"The new law permits different arrangements for electronic signing and witnessing using communications technology of wills and enduring documents, subject to certain protective requirements to mitigate against unwanted outcomes.
"QLS looks forward to working with the government on other measures to overcome legal impediments caused by the current law in assisting Queenslanders with the public health requirements of dealing with COVID-19."
ENDS