Oh my, how things can change in a matter of a few days. Only a few weeks ago, the Coronavirus or Covid-19 seemed like a problem for China and Italy. Never in a million years did any of us think it would have such a dramatic effect on our day to day lives.
We’ve gone from “bro hugs” to “6-foot isolation zones”. If you see anyone in the same aisle of the grocery store, you now turn your cart around and run somewhere else.
Speaking of grocery stores, what is going on with society? People are running over somebody’s grandmother with a shopping cart just to get another package of toilet paper to go along with the 2-year supply they have in their garage.
But is it their fault in this truly unprecedented time? You cannot go 2 seconds without hearing or thinking about what is going on in our society right now. Has the constant deluge of information caused us to act in ways we ordinarily wouldn’t have?
A few thoughts: Clearly, the Covid-19 is a serious health threat to many. Particularly, the elderly and people with underlying health problems such as diabetes or COPD. This is in no way undermining the severity of the illness.
On the other hand, should we just shut down society every time something like this comes along? Is this the new protocol?
The economic impact of this is undeniable. Just look at your IRA or 401k statement if you are brave enough…
In my practice and at our office, we have taken all the necessary precautions to minimize any chance of contributing to the problem: From hand sanitizers to our “no handshake” policy.
I have always been and prefer to be a “face to face” person. It allows clients to really see who I am and helps to develop close relationships. I like to think of myself not just as a lawyer, but someone who is just helping a friend or family member.
However, if a client would rather not meet in person during this time, we can certainly do phone or even video conferences.
What we do for our clients is vital. Therefore, I have chosen to keep working every day at my office.
If someone wants to meet in person, I am willing to do so. The risk is small compared to the difference a plan makes.
Crisis’ Creates Urgencies
For as long as I have been practicing, I get panicked phone calls from prospective clients saying things like “my mom is having surgery tomorrow and hasn’t done any estate planning, is there anything we can do?” Or, “my grandfather just got diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, can he still do a will or trust?”
This current crisis is creating the same types of calls but from many people, not just the sick or elderly. If there was ever a time that so many people feel vulnerable, it is now…and for valid reasons.
Here is what I can do to help people in this situation. I have developed the “Remote Estate Planning System”. Here is how it works:
Here are the 3 Easy Steps to complete your remote estate plan:
STEP 1: Complete a FREE phone or video conference call with David Watson to discuss your needs so your custom estate plan can be completed for you to review.
STEP 2: David will create and send your custom estate plan to you.
STEP 3: The documents will be signed via Video Conference.
YOU ARE DONE!
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David, I want to get this done, but I am worried about the uncertainty of my job.
I certainly understand your concerns and have created a plan to ease those concerns. For those of you who commit to having your plan done by April 15, 2020, I will not require any payments until June of 2020. This means for you:
-No upfront retainer
-No payments until June of 2020
-You don’t have to have your plan completed by April 15th, just commit to having it done
-Peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in order & your family is protected
