Family Law Court changes under COVID-19 your Lawyer should be telling you
Covid-19 has caused many professions to implement new strategies and technologies at short notice. In this blog we look at some of the areas that have had to adapt in the legal profession and certain processes including the family law courts, which is no exception.
Choosing a top divorce lawyer or child custody and parenting lawyer that can support you and your efforts during Coronavirus and this time of change is critical.
Whilst certain processes may differ, the Family Law Courts continue to operate predominantly to assist families in the fair and equitable distribution of their assets (known as property matters) and with parenting arrangements that are in the best interests of their children, following the breakdown of a relationship.
Here are just some of the changes implemented by the Court since March 2020:
· The creation of a COVID-19 List designated specifically to deal with urgent, parenting matters that have arisen as a direct result of the Covid-19 pandemic, with an aim of hearing such matters within 3 business days.
· The ability to appear before the Court, conduct hearings (both interim and final) and participate in court ordered mediation via the telephone or video conferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams.
· Interviews, with respect to child dispute cases, to be conducted by family consultants via the telephone or video conference except when observation is necessary. If a face-to-face interview or observation is required, the rules of social distancing are to be strictly adhered to. The Court has also organised for additional cleaning of interview rooms and access to hand sanitiser for participants.
· All Court documents to be filed electronically.
· Acceptance of electronic signatures for court documents and a waiver of signing documents in the presence of an authorised witness, providing that if the Court requires the signatory is available by telephone or videoconference to swear or affirm the contents of the document are true and correct to the best of their knowledge, information and belief.
· Inspection of subpoenaed documents and court files to be arranged by way of appointment only.
The family courts have also encouraged parties and their legal representatives to continue negotiations independently or through private family law mediation, family dispute resolution or arbitration by way of telephone or video conferencing platforms.
Lagom Family Law continues to be fully operational during this time and remains focused on guiding you toward a final resolution in your family law matter. We also have upped our out of hours support for urgent family law matters. You can book a complimentary 20 minute Discovery Call to discuss your matter today through the button below.
Author: Michelle Hill
Lagom Family Law is a boutique legal practice lead by Principal Lichee Hogland who strives to achieve the best possible outcome for her clients whilst being approachable and respectful.
Lagom is a Swedish phrase and means not too little, not too much, just right. This is our philosophy of practice as we aim to provide tailored advice specific for your individual needs - that’s just right for you!