Relaxation of will-making rules during COVID may open elderly to abuse

The writing of wills has drastically changed during the pandemic, with lockdown and other restrictions rendering the traditional rule of all parties signing off in person difficult, if not impossible.

Australian courts have enacted temporary changes so wills can be finalised remotely using the likes of video conferencing. However, Queensland University of Technology researchers are concerned that remote methods increase the risk of elder abuse and the coercion of those writing a will.