04/09/2020
We hope this email finds you and your family well and sheltering in place during this difficult time. In addition to the measures you are taking to keep yourself and your families as safe as possible during this pandemic, there may be legal considerations you did not know are still available to you.
First, we want to remind you that our law firm is an essential business which is open and available to you for any legal questions you may have at this stressful and confusing time. We have clients that we have been advising on the recently passed legislation that is providing financial relief for affected individuals and businesses and can do so for you as well.
While the courts have severely limited their access to the public, they are open for emergencies pertaining to domestic violence and other ex parte (emergency) matters, particularly those pertaining to the safety and welfare of children. As attorneys, we have a greater ability to access the courts now than self-represented litigants and can appear on your behalf without the need for you to come to court and risk your health.
The situation we are in right now is forcing people to spend weeks and months in close proximity during a time when there is fear and uncertainty about health, finances and so much more. Unfortunately, this can cause extreme tension, anger and hostility which could lead to domestic violence and other conflict.
Remember, you are not forced to be a victim. If you feel that you and/or your children are not safe, you may need a restraining order which we can attempt to obtain for you. If you are in immediate danger, do not hesitate to call 911.
As for non-emergency matters, such as obtaining or modifying orders regarding custody, support or property, commencing a dissolution of marriage, and more, the courts are still accepting filings and scheduling hearings.
As you can imagine, hearings are being pushed out for months. However, the sooner you file, the earlier you can get your matter heard. Even if the court closure extends past the date scheduled for your hearing, you will still be in cue for an earlier date than those who wait to file. Once the courts reopen for all business, there will be a logjam on filings and hearings, so it is to your advantage to get on calendar now.
We are available to assist you should you need help for other legal issues which you may need now or in the future such as:
• Creating a trust to protect your loved ones
• Business consulting and incorporating
• Personal injury claims
• Bankruptcy
• DUI actions
• Criminal matters
• Civil Harassment Restraining Orders (different from Domestic Restraining Orders)
• And other legal matters you may have not yet considered.
We want to help you in any way we can. Very few law firms are open during this time, so please refer your friends and family to us. Initial consultations are always free.
We value your business and are here to serve you. Please call or email with any questions.
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