Changing a will

[Schilly]

Hope this is a straightforward question. 90 year old lady returning to solicitor to change her will after one of her daughters died. Simple request to benefit surviving daughter and increase amounts to be left to grandchildren equally. Solicitor refused her to be accompanied by anyone as support and ensure her understanding of the process. This seemed odd. Is this normal or even legal?

[atticus]

I can understand the solicitor wishing to be satisfied that the client appeared to have capacity and could express her wishes without third party influence. I am sorry if that seems odd to you.

Yes, it is both normal and legal. It seems odd that you might think otherwise.

[Schilly]

Whilst I understand issues regarding 'third party influence' in this instance the family are well known to the solicitor and will know that is not the case. Whilst the vast majority of client families and solicitors are perfectly legit, that influence can work both ways and I have witnessed first hand solicitors writing themselves into agreements to handle affairs without having been asked to do so. I can only presume that is in the hope that no-one notices and to profit further. Please forgive me if I am sceptical and find it 'odd' but it is for good reason.