CORONAVIRUS C REALITY FOR LEG by tom hayden
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aw firms across Southwest Florida, like most businesses, are finding new and creative ways to connect with clients as the coronavirus turned normal realities into the new normal, and social distancing and virtual communication became the way of life.
“As layoffs start occurring in bulk, labor law questions are way up,” said Matthew S. Toll, Esq., of TOLL LAW. “People are already asking for payment plans to be paid once their “government virus check arrives.”
No one expected such a dramatic change in daily living as thousands became sick, many have died, healthcare facilities and first responders were overwhelmed and Florida and most states enacted stay-at-home orders for people except when essential services were needed. Those essential services include law firms, because no matter the crisis, clients still need legal advice and resolution in every area.
There are tons of questions and Lee County Bar Association members are going virtual to answer them. Many law firms are connecting with clients through virtual conferencing, using ZOOM or other platforms. Phone conversations are on the rise. Law firms are offering links to need-toknow information, and drive-thru conferencing is even available. The team of lawyers at the law firm of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, Pa., wrote several online articles containing valuable information on a variety of topics, including “COVID-19: Understanding the SBA Paycheck Protection Program Loan under the CARES Act and “COVID-19: Impact on Real Estate Contracts and Closings.”
The impact on the legal community is unprecedented. Face-to-face meetings are out. Most courtrooms are quiet. Many businesses, represented by firms, have endured severe cuts to revenue, were forced into layoffs and closures. Firms are assisting people who file for unemployment where the demand is so great state and federal systems can’t keep up. The federal government offered loans to businesses through the CARES Act, as well as passing a $2.2 trillion stimulus package for individuals, businesses and the healthcare community to help the American people through this financial crisis. Navigating this new normal is complex, complicated and filled with many questions.
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