COVID-19 Resource Page | Family Law Matters Affected by Coronavirus

Updates:

A federal report published on July 26, 2020 placed Georgia in the red zone for new COVID-19 cases. As a result, government officials have issued the 6th amendment to General Order 20-01 ordering an extension to court closures through October 4, 2020. While there will be no civil or criminal jury trials in any division of the Northern District of Georgia until after this date, grand jurors may still be summoned, and grand jury proceedings may continue to be held. Summonses may also be issued to potential jurors for civil and criminal jury trials scheduled after October 4, 2020.
Fulton County Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney announced September 9 that schools will begin strategically reopening within the county. On September 21, 25% of students will have the option of face-to-face learning in Fulton County schools. On October 5, 50% of students can return for in-person education. If Coronavirus cases continue to decline, 100% of students will be welcomed back to school on October 14. Remote learning will continue to be an option for all parents. Additionally, fall sports will begin on an undetermined date in September with new modifications to protect audiences and sports players from COVID-19.
We have rolled out a re-entry plan to resume normal office routines including being open to the public – appointments are preferred over drop ins. This phase in started this week on June 15 with the goal of all staff resuming normal in office functions by the 2^nd week in July.
Supreme Court of Georgia Justice Harold D. Melton has officially extended the Statewide Judicial Emergency order until June 12. State Bar of Georgia offices are to remain closed until Friday, June 12.
Governor Kemp has extended the stay at home order for vulnerable populations until June 12. Additionally, businesses must continue to adhere to social distancing and sanitation guidelines through May 13.
SBA loans have been approved and applications start on April 27.
Governor Kemp has put a shelter order in place through the end of April. It has been confirmed with the Georgia Bar Association that legal services are considered essential services. Even though we are working remotely, we are still serving all our clients as usual.
The State of Georgia has recognized the need for notary and witnessing services and is allowing these legal actions to take place remotely.
The Gwinnett County Bar Association issued a statement to address concerns regarding parenting time schedules during the Coronavirus pandemic. Child visitation schedules will adhere to the previously published school calendar. Parenting time will still be governed by regular school breaks, holidays, and summer vacation — regardless of necessitated homeschooling schedules.

COVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus, has disrupted many functions of normal life in both the United States and throughout Georgia. We at the Atlanta Divorce Law Group care about the community that we serve. Because of this, we wish to educate and emphasize how to protect yourself during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Below are some best practices for health and safety as well as information regarding how Coronavirus is affecting family court operations and day-to-day life. If you encounter a family law emergency during this time, our knowledgeable attorneys can help you navigate your case.

Can I Still Meet with an Experienced Family Law Attorney?

We understand that many people still need help with their family law matters. For this reason, you can still meet with one of our experienced family law attorneys to discuss your case and keep it moving it forward. Our team has implemented several safety measures to proactively fight the spread of COVID-19 while still serving our clients, including:

Meeting clients over the phone or online whenever possible;
Following CDC, WHO, and other governmental guidelines;
Frequently washing hands;
Frequently disinfecting commonly used surfaces and locations; and
Working remotely to encourage social distancing and support the local community objectives of stopping the spread of COVID-19.

However, in person appointments may be available on a very limited basis. Contact our office if you feel this is your only option.

Video Mediation

Mediation offers parties to a family law case to resolve a dispute with the help of a neutral third party. Mediations can still occur online, through video chat, or over the phone.

Online Settlement Negotiations

Many negotiations can still take place online or over the phone. An experienced family law attorney from our team can negotiate a settlement virtually with your best interests in mind.

Negotiating Temporary Agreements Over the Phone

With COVID-19 creating many conflicts over parenting plans, establishing a temporary agreement with an ex-spouse may be in the best interest of your children. Negotiating a temporary agreement can still occur online or over the phone.

Discussing a Date for Your Cancelled or Rescheduled Family Hearing

If your court date or hearing was cancelled or rescheduled due to COVID-19, a member of our team can advise you on how and when to set up a new date that works for your schedule.

Client Meetings with a Family Attorney Over the Phone or Online

For any other family law matters, you can still meet with one of our knowledgeable family lawyers. Our attorneys can guide you through your options and choose the best path for your specific circumstances.

Contact an Experienced Family Law Attorney Today

The knowledgeable family law team at ADLG will continue to monitor COVID-19 and update you on any major changes related to family courts and other resources. We understand that this is a trying time for many individuals. If you have any questions about how the Coronavirus may affect your family law matter, call our office today to speak to an ADLG team member.

How COVID-19 Is Affecting Courts

In light of the pandemic, many Georgia courthouses are limiting hearings to essential matters only. This means that family law hearings may be rescheduled or cancelled. Even though many courts are not hearing cases, you can still take action through other means. There are several options available for those who want to move their case forward.

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Resources to Stay Happy and Healthy

Dealing with the impact of COVID-19 on our daily lives can be stressful. With changes occurring at a rapid place, it may be difficult to keep track of it all. In times like these, it is best to seek information from credible sources such as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). These organizations have provided the following resources:

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