Soon after the coronavirus public health emergency began, Florida courts recognized the need to find safe ways to conduct hearings. On online platform called Zoom made contactless hearings a reality. But what about other types of legal matters? Many lawyers have found ways to address the needs of their clients with contactless legal advice.
In-Person Legal Advice
Before COVID-19, attorneys conducted most of their client meetings in person. Telephone conferences and hearings had become more common, but in-person lawyering was still king.
Now, clients may feel uncomfortable or even fearful about traveling to their attorney’s office. Likewise, attorneys may be concerned about the dangers they and their staff members face when members of the general public enter their offices.
Fortunately, lawyers have adapted technology to make contactless legal advice possible for many of their clients.
Potential Solutions for Contactless Legal Advice
People in show business say, “The show must go on.” How much more important are the legal problems we find ourselves handling. Estate plans need to be prepared or updated. Entrepreneurs may need advice on forming, operating, or closing a business. Leases are being signed or broken. Regardless of the coronavirus pandemic, lawyers needed to find ways to help their clients.
Some of the more common ways to achieve contactless legal advice include:
- Phones. Many people now have phones with video and audio capabilities. Conference calls can pull people together from all over the world if necessary.
- Email. Attorneys and clients have been using email to communicate for years. However, this tool has become more important due to COVID-19 restrictions. It is important to use secure channels to protect confidential information and documents.
- Online Communication Platforms and Apps. Zoom may be one of the most well-known companies that offer video conferencing. In fact, Florida courts use Zoom to hold conferences and hearings. However, it’s not the only option. Alternatives to Zoom include Skype, WebEx, Troop Messenger, and Microsoft Teams.
We know that you are concerned about your health and safety. We are concerned, also. Our firm is ready and able to do telephone and video conferences. If an in-person meeting is necessary, we observe mask and social distancing guidelines.
Learn More About Contactless Legal Advice
Attorney Richard Sierra at the Florida Small Business Center assists clients like you with business and litigation matters. As always, Our Goal Is to Help You Succeed™. For an appointment, you may call us at 1-866-842-5202 or use the contact form on our website. We represent clients throughout the State of Florida, including Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Deerfield Beach, Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Orlando, Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Tampa, and surrounding communities.