Legal Blog

 

We’re Monitoring COVID-19 & Here to Help

Mar 19 2020, by Michael Fienman in COVID-19
We're in this together

COVID-19 has impacted the lives of many in and around Philadelphia. As the situation continues to evolve, Fienman Defense wants to reassure our clients and the community that we are taking this situation seriously and putting safety measures in place that prioritize the health and well-being of our clients and staff. We also want to ensure you get the answers and consummate legal guidance you expect.

As a firm, we are carefully monitoring and adhering to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pennsylvania Department of Health, other government agency guidance, and staying abreast of any changes or updates.

Attorney Michael Fienman and our staff have been advised on the practical measures to help stem the tide of COVID-19, including regular hand washing, the use of hand sanitizer, frequently disinfecting commonly touched areas, and social distancing whenever possible. This involves using video and phone conferences and communicating via phone, Skype, Facetime, and e-mail to limit in-person interaction.

If you are an existing client and have a question about your case in light of the COVID 19 pandemic, please call (215) 839-9529 or send us a message online. We are available and will be in touch as soon as possible.

We’re Available & Working

We are currently working normally to address your needs and questions. Attorney Fienman is accustomed to remote operations and happy to provide assistance to current and prospective clients. We have access to all pending cases and actively working to resolve cases favorably.

Attorney Fienman Will Keep You Informed

We are closely monitoring all client deadlines, court closures, and will continue to keep you updated.

If the situation continues to progress, we will explore all available options to provide you with the best possible representation. This may include using video appearances, e-document filing, and other tools should the need arise.

Philadelphia & PA Court Closures

As courts across the country take measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, some are restricting access and altering their procedures. In many counties, civil and criminal matters scheduled for trial are being continued. Some local courts are proceeding with reduced cases.

If you have legal proceedings scheduled in any of the following, reach out to attorney Fienman:

  • Montgomery County
  • Philadelphia Courts
  • Bucks County
  • Berks County
  • Lehigh County
  • Northampton County
  • Delaware County
  • Lancaster County
  • Chester County

You can find more information about specific court closures in Pennsylvania by county here.

For now, although the courts are closed, the administrative offices are operational which means that we can still file pleadings when necessary.

Pending Cases & Those in Custody

If you are involved in an active criminal case, you should carefully monitor the court website and call to find out what is expected of you. Do not miss any hearings or other court-mandated requirements without confirmation from your lawyer.

We are working to make sure there are no unnecessary delays when clients are in custody and to expedite resolutions for those hoping for future expungements.

The court closures are having the most impact on incarcerated clients awaiting trial who cannot afford bail. We have filed emergency motions for release in many of these cases. Also impacted are clients serving county sentences that will conclude during the pandemic. In these matters, we may be able to file emergency motions requesting early parole (in some cases) or electronic monitoring. This may allow for early release and also protects from further exposure to the virus as a result of their confinement.

You Can Always Reach Us

We take your rights very seriously. Your case and the dedicated service Attorney Fienman provides will not be interrupted despite this uniquely challenging time. We appreciate your patience and we will continue to bring you updates.

We are meeting with clients as needed over the phone and taking consultations for those seeking our services.

Our lawyers and staff are available at (215) 839-9529.

We’re All In this Together

We hope that you and your families are safe and healthy. Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We truly appreciate your choice in deciding to work with an attorney who will stand by and fight for you no matter what. We look forward to continuing to work together to resolve your current and future legal matters.