Explaining the Process and Value of Document Verification to Your Clients

While document verification using blockchain technology can ensure the integrity and authenticity of legal documents, explaining the concept to clients who may not have a technical background can be challenging. However, by following a few key principles, you can effectively communicate the essence of blockchain verification and its benefits to all parties.

Check your own Understanding

Make sure you know what you are talking about before you attempt to explain it. Here’s a simple explanation to check your own understanding:

By leveraging blockchain technology, a will can be securely digitized and stored on a decentralized ledger. Through the process of hashing and storing the document's unique digital fingerprint on the blockchain, the will's contents remain tamper-proof and transparent.

Hashing involves taking an input and applying a specific mathematical algorithm to generate a fixed-size output called a hash value or hash code. The hashing algorithm is designed to produce a unique hash value for each unique input, making it highly improbable for two different inputs to produce the same hash.

This property ensures that even the smallest modification to a document will result in a completely different hash, making it easy to detect any tampering or alteration. Creating a digital fingerprint provides assurance that the will has not been altered or manipulated, safeguarding the wishes of the testator.

Understand the Client's Perspective

Start by understanding your client's level of familiarity with technology and blockchain. Ask some simple questions to assess their existing knowledge and tailor your explanation accordingly. Use relatable examples and analogies to bridge the knowledge gap and make the concept more accessible.

Simplify the Technical Jargon

Avoid overwhelming clients with technical terms and jargon. Break down the concepts into simple, easy-to-understand language. Focus on the practical benefits and implications of blockchain verification rather than getting caught up in technical details.

Use Cases and Simple Examples

Illustrate the benefits of document verification using blockchain technology through real-life examples and case studies. Highlight how blockchain is already used in legal contexts, such as establishing the authenticity of evidence or streamlining contractual processes. Stories that demonstrate the practical value of blockchain verification can help clients grasp its relevance to the estate planning process.

Use Visual Aids and Demonstrations

Visual representations can help simplify complex ideas and improve understanding. Prepare a set of diagrams to show how blockchain verification ensures transparency, immutability, and traceability.  It may be helpful to show a short video or demonstrate Correct Will in use.

Address Security and Privacy Concerns

Clients may have concerns regarding the security and privacy implications of blockchain technology. Explain the cryptographic principles that underpin blockchain security and emphasise the robustness of the technology. Discuss the importance of data protection measures and how encryption techniques are employed to safeguard sensitive information.

Offer Ongoing Support

Blockchain technology is continuously evolving, and its legal implications are still emerging. Assure clients that you will stay informed about the latest developments and provide ongoing support and guidance. Encourage clients to ask questions and address any concerns they may have as they navigate the implementation of blockchain verification.

By employing these strategies, you can effectively communicate the fundamentals of document verification using blockchain technology to your clients, ensuring that they comprehend its relevance, benefits, and potential impact on their legal proceedings. With technology such as Correct Will, legal professionals and beneficiaries can have increased confidence in the validity and authenticity of wills, fostering trust and reducing the potential for disputes or fraudulent activities.