In order to protect the health of our employees, clients and the public, FRIDAY MILNER LAMBERT TURNER, PLLC is adhering to federal, state and local restrictions and recommendations concerning the COVID-19 virus. To that end, we are open for business, but working remotely from home. You may continue to reach us in the usual manner, by calling us at 512-420-0555, where your call will still be answered by our receptionist and transferred to our usual extensions. Of course, you can also reach any of us by email at our usual email addresses.
Although local courts are closed for in-person hearings, courts have resumed business as usual through remote conferencing technology such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams. Thus, our cases are now able to proceed as they usually would, albeit with some obvious logistical differences.
Jonathan Friday, Amy Lambert, and Joe D. Milner are still available for mediations. They are equipped to conduct mediations and arbitrations via Zoom video conference, and our system is compliant with HIPAA requirements. Please contact any of our mediators if you need more information about how the system works.
FAQs:
Q: Will my case be more difficult due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
A: No, at this point attorneys, mediators, and courts have successfully adjusted to handling cases remotely through the use of remote conferencing technology. Petitions, motions, and orders can be submitted remotely, and court staffs are working full time to ensure cases move through the court system as efficiently as possible.
Q: Can I lower my child support due to being laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
A: The ability to modify court orders remains the same as it always has, and in the event of a layoff due to COVID-19 it would be prudent to speak with an attorney about whether your particular circumstances justify a temporary or permanent modification of support.
Q: Will the COVID-19 pandemic affect my ability to seek protection against my spouse if we live together?
A: No, it will not affect your ability to seek protection. As always, if family violence is present in the relationship, it is critical that you speak with an attorney about the particular circumstances of your case. Depending on the circumstances, you can seek temporary orders, a temporary restraining order, or a family violence protective order to protect you and your children, as well as remove a spouse or other individual from the home.
Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected exchanges of children between parents?
A: The courts have made it clear that parents are to abide by possession orders as they normally would prior to the pandemic, and exchange children on the same days and at the same times as they normally would have prior to the pandemic. In the event that school holidays are extended due to the pandemic, the courts have made it clear that parents are to exchange children at the time and on the date they would have exchanged the child prior to the pandemic. If you have any doubt as to what your obligations are concerning exchanges of your child, you should seek the advice of an attorney.