HOW WILL MY FAMILY LAW CASE BE HANDLED IN THE WAKE OF THE PANDEMIC?
The AWKM family law attorneys are here to assist you with your divorce, custody, support and domestic abuse cases in the wake of the pandemic. The new virtual and in person operations of the courts has undoubtedly caused confusion and concern. AWKM is up to date on the latest court policies and directives in the counties of Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware, Chester and Bucks and is ready to steer your case through the courts in these harrowing times.
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
Can I get a divorce during the pandemic?
Yes. the counties are accepting divorce complaints and they are entering divorce decrees. There may be some additional time delays but the courts are making every effort to process divorces in a timely manner.
Can I file for and obtain child support during the pandemic?
Yes. Complaints for Child support can be filed electronically on the Pennsylvania child support website or by mailing in a petition. While courts are limiting the number of in court appearances, they are scheduling telephone conferences, virtual hearings and thereafter entering child support orders.
Can I file for custody?
Yes. Complaints for custody can be filed by mail, electronically ( in Montgomery and Bucks Counties) and in person at drop boxes at the courthouses. The Judges are only hearing a limited number of custody cases and trying to settle as many of the cases as they can to avoid court hearings. They are scheduling conferences through the use of electronic communication systems, such as Zoom and RingCentral. Custody masters are also scheduling conferences through electronic communication systems.
Can I file for Protection against Abuse?
Yes. Courts are accepting Petitions for Protection against Abuse and are scheduling hearings on these petitions, many of which are virtual.
Will the court hear cases on asset distribution?
Yes. Equitable Distribution masters are scheduling telephone conferences with attorneys to address issues such as exchanging financial information and reaching settlements. Some hearings are being held in person and some are being held virtually.
Please contact the AWKM lawyers to assist you with all of your family law needs. We can be reached at 215-790-0100 or at the below email addresses:
David Gutin, Esquire – dgutin@astorweiss.com
Gerald Schorr – gschorr@astorweiss.com
Julie Auerbach – jauerbach@astorweiss.com
Judy Springer – jspringer@astorweiss.com
Dina Ronsayro – dronsayro@astorweiss.com
Julia Morrow – jmorrow@astorweiss.com
Kate Sookhoo – ksookhoo@astorweiss.com