Solicitor altering COP24 statement.

[Guest]

I have a concern as a solicitor has provided two versions of a COP24 witness statement. They state that only one original exists, but that they have altered one to show a codicil and a newer version shows a new Will. Both copies show the same witness signing and the same date. The new version does not show anything to show the witness has altered anything. It seems that they have just altered the evidence page to suit their new plan. Can they do this?

[Manxman]

...They state that only one original exists, but that [ my bold] they have altered one to show a codicil and a newer version shows a new Will. Both copies show the same witness signing and the same date...

For clarification, are you saying (a) that the solictors have told you two contradictory things - ie that only one original exists and that they've altered one(?) or (b) that the solicitors have only told you that one original exists, but they have actually produced two different copies?

I presume you mean (b) but by using the second "that" after "but" you've cast doubt on what exactly you mean...

[Guest]

The solicitors have told me that one original exists and they have actually produced two different versions of that statement.

[Manxman]

I thought that must be what you mean. Sorry for asking but sometimes it's important to understand exactly what you mean.

Sounds a bit off. Make sure you keep both copies safe.

I'm afraid I can't be of any more help, but is this to do with your other thread about a trustee gifting assets to a non-beneficiary?