Navigating Family Law Issues & Domestic Relations In A COVID19 World

Presented by Alex Xanttopoulos,  Roop Xanttopoulos Babounakis PLLC

As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases continues to rise and schools, workplaces and public gathering spaces across the United States remain closed, the coronavirus outbreak is having profound impacts on the personal lives of Americans in a variety of ways. Nearly nine-in-ten U.S. adults say their life has changed at least a little as a result of the COVID-19.

In our legal system, the Supreme Court of Virginia issued an Order Declaring a Judicial Emergency which is now in place until April 27, 2020 and will likely be extended into May.  Pursuant to that Order, the Courts in the Commonwealth of Virginia, with limited exceptions, are suspended, and all corresponding deadlines are tolled and extended. During this period, the Courts remain available for emergency matters such as protective orders and those necessary to protect the health and safety of the public.

Despite the recent pandemic, life must continue, and therefore, so do the issues surrounding separation and divorce.  Further, domestic violence cases are on the rise and calls to domestic violence emergency hotline numbers grew 76% statewide in March, according to the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance, which compiles data on shelter services for 65 facilities.

This workshop will discuss how to protect yourself financially, emotionally, and physically during the current Covid19 climate including how to prepare for things once the pandemic subsides and the Court’s re-open.   The workshop will also discuss how to prepare your family for the worst including estate planning in the event someone is seriously compromised as a result of the virus.