Dear Clients and Friends:
By now everyone is aware of the many shutdowns and closures caused by the COVID-19 virus, which has resulted in interruptions in our lives and businesses. Navigating difficult times is a core skill I’ve developed during my decades of being a divorce lawyer. My partners and I have been working to protect the safety of our staff, while at the same time, meeting the needs of our current and new clients.
Currently, it is our plan to keep our Chicago, Springfield and Naples offices open and operational. However, we have, and are developing, alternative methods of securely communicating and meeting, in order to provide continued and uninterrupted services to our clients.
The evening of Friday March 13, we were informed that starting Tuesday March 17, the Cook County Circuit Court will limit its caseload to critical criminal and emergency matters. Although new cases can still be filed, until at least mid-April civil matters (such as divorce cases) not deemed an emergency will be placed on hold. Requests for Orders of Protection and emergency child-support petitions can still be heard by a judge. Cases set for trial during this time frame will not go forward. Because this announcement was made recently, we are seeking clarity on the specifics of the Court’s actions. I assume court systems in the collar counties are also considering shutdowns.
Although there will be only limited access to the courts, we can still move your cases forward. The situation presents litigants an opportunity to work cooperatively to reach mutually agreeable resolutions. As a trained and experienced mediator, arbitrator and collaborative attorney, we can explore effective methods and processes to move your case forward while the court system is on hold.
Keep yourself and your families healthy by mindful of all the recommended precautions offered by our local, state and national governmental agencies.
Please contact me if you have any questions or would like updates.
Sincerely,
Michael C. Craven
