Dear Clients, Neighbors, and Friends,
We hope you are doing well and remaining safe in this difficult time. We wanted to write with an update on where things look for the courts, your cases, and our firm. Our firm remains fully operational and each of our attorneys and staff are working hard on behalf of our clients.
Court Changes
As of now, the courts remain open and all civil cases are proceeding. However, most courts are postponing in-person hearings, jury trials, and other events that require person-to-person contact. Workers Compensation Courts are completely closed. Depositions are also postponed, but we are working to conduct those via video with several opposing counsel now to limit case disruption.
We are Fully Operational
As you may already know by now, New Jersey Governor Murphy ordered all “non-essential businesses” to close as of 9 PM Saturday, March 21, 2020. In compliance with this directive, we have closed our office to the public. However, our firm remains fully operational, but have begun policies that allow our attorneys and staff to work remotely from home. As the firm is fully electronic, our attorneys and staff have access to all systems through a secure server that they can access remotely. Even our phone systems are accessible remotely, so we are able to take all business calls regularly. You should not experience a difference in service or accessibility.
New Clients
Rather than having an in-person new client meeting, these will be via phone. We will ask new clients to send or scan to us all their documentation. We will also be moving to an e-signature platform for clients to sign certain documents including fee agreements.
Resources for You
In keeping with our commitment to serve as a resource for clients and business associates during this time of emergency, please note the following online sources of information:
- The New Jersey Economic Development Authority has created a website that directs business owners to various resources to assist financially due to negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 public health crisis: COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus Information for New Jersey Businesses. This site will be updated with any new programs or support that becomes available.
- Information is also available at: NJEDA Coronavirus Information
- The Small Business Administration provides relief for businesses through the traditional Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program that may apply to businesses affected by negative economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 epidemic. Please refer to the SBA’s website for up to date information. Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources
- New federal legislation and appropriations intended to provide relief for businesses may allow you to apply for assistance for economic loss. Details of eligibility are still being determined. Please visit: SBA Disaster Assistance Information
- The SBA form “Estimated Disaster Economic Injury Worksheet” can be completed online at: Disaster Loan Assistance
- The New Jersey Business Action Center maintains a helpline between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. 7 days a week at 1-800-JERSEY-7 to answer any questions you may have and direct you to the appropriate agency.
If you have questions, please feel free to call us at (732) 636-3030. Stay safe.
