CLIENT ALERT: Connecticut Allows for Remote Notarization Amidst COVID-19 Outbreak and Suspends Non-Critical Probate Court Operations

March 22, 2020

On March 23, 2020, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont issued Executive Order No. 7K which allows for remote notarization and temporarily suspends non-critical Probate Court operations.

Effective through June 23, 2020, Connecticut Notary Publics are permitted to perform notarial acts using an electronic device or other process which allows a Connecticut Notary Public and a remotely located individual to communicate with each other by sight and sound. The individual must be physically situated in the State of Connecticut and have the ability to transmit a copy of the signed document to the Notary Public by fax or electronic means on the same day the document was signed in order to have such document notarized. The Executive Order also applies to Commissioners of the Superior Court, which allows an attorney to sign in place of a Notary Public.

For clients who wish to execute a Last Will and Testament, the Executive Order permits an attorney to administer the execution of your Will remotely, although two (2) disinterested witnesses must be present with the signatory. In addition, the Executive Order allows a real estate attorney to conduct real estate closings remotely.

Effective immediately, Connecticut Probate Courts are closed to all non-critical matters. The Executive Order temporarily suspends the time requirements, statutes of limitation, and deadlines relating to service of process, court proceedings and court filings. All time requirements or deadlines for the Probate Court to issue notices, hold court hearings and/or render decisions relating to administrative procedures, decedents’ estates, trusts, disclaimers of property, and matters relating to protected persons, including minors, conservatorships and guardianships, are also temporarily suspended. Probate Courts will remain open for critical matters only. The Probate Court will determine on a case by case basis if it is necessary to hold a hearing or render a decision with regard to a critical matter, only if the circumstances of a particular matter warrant.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your Cummings & Lockwood LLC attorney.