ACTUALLY written by: Kandyce D. Anderson, LA.
How is Monroe County Being Affected by COVID?
Sources state that “as of 4p.m. Thursday, April 23, there are 1,171 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Monroe County.”[1] There were 41 new cases since the day before on April 22nd. That is 41 cases in one day. It is a matter of perspective, feeling lucky that there were only 3 reported deaths; still a tragic loss that only adds to the total death count, but the numbers could have been higher.
How are we responding?
It is no mystery that we need serious change. Courts across the U.S have remained open for Essential Cases. For Family Law, that means Removals (if a child is unsafe and needs to be placed), Juvenile delinquency intake, Emergency /temporary orders of protection (family abuse cases), Orders to show cause, and Stipulations on submission (agreements between the two sides of a dispute). But what about the other cases or “nonessentials?” For now, they are being postponed to a later date. In the meantime, it is advised that all individuals with cases should continue preparing for their next date.
Chief Judge DiFiore, the Chief Executive Officer of the Administrative Directory for NYCOURTS.GOV, feels that adapting to the new normal includes “working every day to improve temporary virtual operations.” The Courts and most offices, including the Law Firm of Aaron M. Gavenda, Esq., are opting out of face-to-face client meetings and moving towards speaking with clients, and potential clients, telephonically or over SKYPE for Businesses. DiFiore states in her video that “productivity is improving each week; all essential functions of the courts remain available to ensure that New Yorkers may access the justice system during this extremely challenging time.’’ I think I like where this is going. To hear more from Chief Judge DiFiore visit www.nycourts.gov.
How has the Law firm of Aaron M. Gavenda adapted to these changes?
Simple. We are making the switch to the “New Age.” Our typical procedure, before COVID-19, was to reach out to potential clients, via email, within a few days of receiving their lead and contact information. We would then schedule a free 30-minute consultation to go over the details of case matters and proceed from there. Client meetings were typically held at the office, or a place of the Client’s choosing (considering that every person has different circumstances regarding location and transportation); and we all know that Court proceedings were held in the court room, or telephonically from the office.
Our methods of handling the current effects of COVID-19 include offering every aspect of the process over the Internet or telephone. We have upgraded our systems to better allow us to keep track of electronic documents and keep steady touch with our clients through email and telephone. I, personally, have made myself available around-the-clock to be there for clients with questions or issues that need immediate attention. We ask that any documentation that clients may have to help aid in the case be scanned and emailed to either myself, or Mr. Gavenda. For those that do not have a computer or scanner at home, delivery by postal mail is the only option as of yet.
Our office also has a 100% secure online payment method so clients can make payments from the comfort of their own homes. But how can anyone afford a Lawyer at this time? The Gavenda Law Firm realizes and respects the fact that the entire world is encountering financial hardships right now. Upstate New York is not the exception, but rather one of the most hard-hit places in the US today. Since the start of the business, we have taken great pride in being able to afford our clients the option of a payment plan. Now, more than ever, we realize our clients need a more affordable help.
As the Firm’s only Legal Assistant, it is my honest opinion that Clients should be focusing on their cases right now, and trust that they are being superiorly defended. Do not let a dollar amount intimidate you from gaining the best representation possible. The firm specializes in Family Court Law. We understand that crime rates are going up regarding domestic violence, and many are noticing an increase in court order violations. Courts are still open and operating normally for essential and emergency cases, and although non-essential cases are being postponed, we are ready and willing to work longer and harder to accommodate these increasing numbers. We will do everything in our power to let money be the last thing our clients worry about.
[1] (Matthew Leonard, Rochester Democrat & Chronicle)