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ARTICLE · 26 NOVEMBER 2019

Law Commission Report On Electronic Execution: Does It Change Anything?

Mayer Brown
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As part of its most recent Programme of Law Reform, the Law Commission of England and Wales recently published a report on electronic signatures for deeds and documents.

United KingdomCorporate/Commercial Law
Alex Dell
Alex Dell
Annabel Evans
Annabel Evans
Ashley McDermott
Ashley McDermott
Stephen Walsh
Stephen Walsh
Simon Fisher
Simon Fisher
Sarah Walters
Sarah Walters
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Introduction

As part of its most recent Programme of Law Reform, the Law Commission of England and Wales recently published a report on electronic signatures for deeds and documents. The report confirms what was already the consensus amongst the London legal community: it is possible to use an electronic signature to execute a document (including a deed) under English law. However, the Law Commission has also recognised that there remain practical and technological obstacles with their use in some areas. In this Legal Update, we consider some of the key findings of the Law Commission report and developments we are seeing in connection with electronic signatures.

Background

The Law Commission's most recent programme has focused on reforms designed to enhance the UK's competitiveness internationally by supporting technological innovation: people want convenient modern solutions by which they can conduct business and enter into binding contracts. The report

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This Mayer Brown article provides information and comments on legal issues and developments of interest. The foregoing is not a comprehensive treatment of the subject matter covered and is not intended to provide legal advice. Readers should seek specific legal advice before taking any action with respect to the matters discussed herein.

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