Petition · past parliament · Ministry of Justice
Make it easier for those self-isolating to sign a Will
Closed
18 signatures
What the petition asks
Urgently introduce options for electronically signing Wills, and/or such other options as may enable a Will to be signed without the need for witnesses to be physically present.
The validity of Wills is currently governed by the Wills Act 1837. A Will must be signed in the physical presence of two independent witnesses, who then also sign the Will in the physical presence of the testator (Will-writer).
In the light of the current coronavirus pandemic, many people feel the need to urgently make or update their Wills. Unfortunately, many of these people are self-isolating and cannot meet the requirements. Urgent change is needed to meet this need.
In the light of the current coronavirus pandemic, many people feel the need to urgently make or update their Wills. Unfortunately, many of these people are self-isolating and cannot meet the requirements. Urgent change is needed to meet this need.
Timeline
| 6 May 2020 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 6 Nov 2020 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
18
Status
Closed
Department
Ministry of Justice
Opened
6 May 2020
Closed
6 Nov 2020
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.