What Can Still be Accomplished While Courts Are Closed due to Coronavirus?

Child Custody

Restrictions continue in a widespread effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus. New York has limited access to the courts to adhere to social distancing recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).

Governor Cuomo’s statewide stay-at-home order, remains in effect through April 30 for most businesses and employees. This means that many New Yorkers are having to self-quarantine at home and are advised to leave only for essential needs.

For some couples experiencing marital problems, or worse, suffering domestic violence issues, a home quarantine is just not feasible. With courts essentially closed across New York, these individuals are left wondering what their legal options are when it comes to urgent family law matters. However, steps can be taken to move forward with difficult circumstances requiring serious issues of domestic violence or abuse, parental alienation, as well as separation, divorce, and custody matters requiring immediate attention.

Emergency and Financial Relief Options

For certain types of emergency and financial relief, going to court is necessary and is still an option. Gradually, the courts can hear emergency applications pertaining to domestic violence, custody, visitation, and support order violations. It is possible to seek Court intervention in matters which entail:

  • Restraining orders
  • Orders of protection
  • Emergency custody orders
  • Child support orders
  • Filing for Divorce

Out-Of-Court Options

In addition, our attorneys are always available to assist you with matters that can be handled outside of court, such as negotiation, mediation, drafting, and execution of:

  • Custody agreements
  • Support agreements
  • Support modification agreements
  • Relocation agreements
  • Divorce settlement agreements

Wills, and Estate Planning Services for Your Family’s Protection

People are increasingly becoming aware of their personal estate planning needs, such as the need for a last will and testamenthealth care proxy and living will. Many realize that they have been procrastinating for too long preparing or updating their will to designate a guardian for young children. We can prepare all such documents, without the need for personal contact with the client, and we are now authorized to conduct a will-signing via video conference.

Become a Client from Home

During this unprecedented time, we are here to help you and are committed to protecting you and your family throughout this crisis. If you are quarantined during this coronavirus pandemic, we can be reached 24/7 by telephone, video, and email. We can conduct virtual meetings, process legal documents, and take action on your behalf. We can video chat with you to address all questions and concerns, and we can start working on them immediately.

Read about the steps we are taking to minimize the impact of COVID-19.

All of us at Wisselman, Harounian & Associates, P.C. hope you and your family are staying safe during these challenging times. We continue to provide services to help our clients and local communities.

In times of uncertainty, we can help protect you and your family. Contact Wisselman, Harounian & Associates at (516) 773-8300 to get started with your virtual case evaluation.

Call (516) 773-8300 or contact us online today. Click here for a consultation!