The coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a highly contagious virus that is currently causing substantial problems for professionals across every industry in every corner of the world. In order to keep everyone safe, local and federal governments are taking initiative and urging the public to stay at home. This is the best way that individuals can keep themselves, and their loved ones, safe from the deadly virus. As long as the general public only leaves their home when absolutely necessary, we can curb the spread and return to our lives as soon as possible.
This causes problems for certain professionals. Retail stores are forced to close for the safety of the public and employees alike. Restaurants are opting to have take-out only, vastly cutting down their staff. Teachers have to give class online. The companies that have chosen to work remotely are navigating how to accomplish that. The same goes for legal professionals. Court reporters are opting to turn to remote depositions, allowing attorneys and their clients to proceed with their case from the comfort of their home.
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Attorneys understand that just because a health crisis is occurring, that doesn’t mean that people won’t need legal representation. In fact, it is possible that they may need an attorney now more than ever. Professionals like elder law attorney Mark Shalloway in West Palm Beach gladly offer their clients consultations via phone-call or video. As long as a client has internet or cell service, these consultations can occur with the same efficiency as an in-person meeting.
“Now more than ever, it is important to have your legal and financial obligations secure and under control,” Mark Shalloway says.
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The fields surrounding elder and special needs law are especially important in this time. Shalloway urges his clients to get all important documents in order. This could mean Medicaid planning, asset protection trusts, health care proxy, last will and testament, and so much more. For those who are concerned that they (or their family members) do not have all of these aspects in order, the staff at Shalloway & Shalloway are just a phone call away. No matter what, Shalloway’s staff has always been there for their clients. Now, more than ever, Shalloway’s attorneys desire to be there for the people who need them.
Many are concerned that even if they get these documents together with their attorney, it is not official because it cannot be notarized. In some states, including Florida, this problem is solved. By contacting an attorney through phone call or email, clients can have their important documents notarized through audio-video technology. Times are difficult, but thankfully we live in an age where we have the resources to overcome roadblocks our parents may not have been able to overcome in the past.
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For those who feel unprepared and may not be ready to schedule an appointment with an elder law attorney, the staff at Shalloway & Shyalloway offers virtual seminars and podcasts. These informative listenings are designed to not only educate clients and the community, but to divert attention to another topic for a while. Stream these seminars on shalloway.com.
Throughout all the uncertainties we face today, it is crucial to keep an open mind and open heart. Check in on your neighbors, especially the elderly and those with special needs, to make sure they are all right and have supplies and food that they need, but may be unable to get. Know that, if we all work together (but separately) this can and will be over soon. Keep a close eye on the updates given by the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. Incorporate this advice into your daily life, stay healthy, stay safe, and stay optimistic.
For more information, call (561) 686-6200 or fill out this contact form.