On December 31, 2019, the first case of what was then an unknown pneumonia was reported in Wuhan, China. By January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Fast forward to today, and what is now known as COVID-19 has swept the nation, with the Governor of Massachusetts (among many other states) putting in place “stay at home” orders in an effort to curb the spread of this deadly virus.
Although businesses and residents in the state remain optimistic, the reality is that “business as usual” may not be in the immediate future for anyone. Governor Baker was recently cited in the Boston Globe as saying that Massachusetts “plans to reopen its economy in four phases beginning around May 18” depending on data following coronavirus infections and hospitalizations.
In light of the current “shut down”, Shapiro Mediation wants to remind clients and prospective clients alike that mediation may be a better-suited modality of conflict resolution.
Courthouse Closures in Massachusetts
Massachusetts state courts are adapting in order to conduct business safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. On April 6, 2020, the Trial Court Emergency Administrative Order 20-7 was issued, with courts in Massachusetts remaining open for those matters deemed to be an “emergency”. However, courthouses are currently closed to the public.
As such, many issues such as divorce, business and employment proceedings may be “shelved” until further notice. This situation is not ideal for anyone with pending civil and “non-emergency” cases or litigation.
Shapiro Law Group’s Mediation Branch
Led by attorney Anna Shapiro, Shapiro Law Group’s Shapiro Mediation is dedicated to serving clients in and around the greater Massachusetts area. They provide clients with results-oriented services including those focused on the area of divorce mediation, as well as business mediation and employment mediation.
According to Shapiro Mediation, litigation isn’t always the best route for dispute resolution. Although effective in its own right, litigation can be complex, drawn-out, stressful, and resource-intensive. Mediation is a reliable and useful alternative that can be explored as a way to resolve a range of disputes in an efficient and affordable manner.
In the context of today’s shutdown and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, now may be a better time than ever to consider mediation as a means of reliable, fast, efficient and cost-effective dispute resolution.
Adapting to a New Way of Doing Business
Although necessary to preserve and protect public health, “stay at home” orders, and business and courthouse closures have resulted in challenges for businesses and individuals across the state.
With life grinding to a halt across Massachusetts, many residents have questions regarding local court systems and the ability to obtain adequate legal counsel. Ready to tackle these unique challenges, Shapiro Mediation quickly implemented measures to adapt to the changing circumstances surrounding COVID-19, leveraging technology and offering teleconferencing options to ensure their clients get the legal representation and assistance they deserve. Shapiro Mediation is now offering teleconference appointments for legal counsel and mediation.
The Potential Benefits of Mediation
Areas of Mediation Practice
Their years of experience have helped the firm develop a depth of experience spanning a myriad of legal areas including but not limited to mediation for:
Experience Clients can Count On
Shapiro Mediation, with their extensive litigation experience and a track record of demonstrated results for clients, is well-positioned to help those in need of mediation in the greater Massachusetts area.
Those interested in learning more about Shapiro Mediation or in scheduling a free, no-obligation initial consultation are encouraged to reach out via their official website or by calling 617-207-7269.
Media ContactCompany Name: Shapiro Mediation ServicesContact Person: Tomas GalloEmail: Send EmailAddress:300 Trade Center Suite 3700-BCity: WoburnState: MACountry: United StatesWebsite: www.shapiromediators.com/
