Coronavirus – Stauff & Gross Law

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The “Dos and Don’ts” of Virtual Hearings

You probably saw the viral video of the lawyer appearing as a cat that went viral lately so we want to share some “dos and don’ts” of virtual hearings.

Do be on time for calendar call and the start of your hearing if the judge tells you to come back later in the day for your hearing. Even make sure you try logging on early so that you can ensure any technical issues are resolved.

Don’t login to calendar call late as your case may be dismissed if you are not present. If you have issues logging on and your case is in Wake County email your judge’s case coordinator immediately to let them know. More information can be found here: https://www.wcfcc.com

Do dress like you would if you were appearing in person in court. Even from the waist down. You never know if you may have to stand up.

Don’t wear pajamas or other loungewear on a virtual hearing. Leave those Christmas jammies in the drawer.

Do logon in a quiet place away from other noises or distractions, even if that is your car. The judge wants to hear from you and not your dog or children.

Don’t have the television, radio, or music on in the background or logon in a public place. A court session is not the place for background white noise.

Do present yourself on the virtual hearing as if you were in person in front of the judge. Impressions still matter even in a virtual world.

Don’t display a background that is not appropriate for court or, most importantly, turn on any filters causing you to appear as a cute, fuzzy feline.

Call Stauff & Gross, PLLC at (919) 783-1260 for representation, assistance, or advice with an upcoming virtual hearing

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Custody & Visitation Guidance During COVID-19 From the Family Court Advisory Commission

The North Carolina Family Court Advisory Commission provided guidance to families with custody or visitation orders already in place. The Commission is stressing that parents should do their best to provide consistency and stability for children if at all possible but should work together for the child’s best interests while also following advice of healthcare professionals.

You can see the full recommendations here: https://www.nccourts.gov/assets/inline-files/Custody%20and%20Visitation%20Recommendations_FINAL.pdf?oNHms1_UlIk.fBhyCxg8nWVR87.ougsC

If you have questions you should consult with an attorney about your specific situation in light of these recommendations and guidance. Our office remains open for telephone and Skype consults for both current and prospective clients.

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COVID-19 – Court System Closure 4/3/20 Update

As a result of the Coronavirus, the North Carolina court system extended its closure until June 1, 2020, to assist with slowing the spread of the virus. A limited number of courtrooms remain open to hear certain issues. For example, hearings for domestic violence protective orders or emergency child custody issues. However, the vast majority of hearings are continued automatically. Unfortunately, as the duration of social distancing remains in flux there is no guarantee courts will reopen within that time frame. For the most recent updates, you can review the court system website here: https://www.nccourts.gov/covid-19-coronavirus-updates

Our office will be in touch with current clients who have court dates between now and June 1 if we have not already to let them know their specific situation. We can provide consultations and appointments by either telephone or video conferencing to save both current clients and prospective clients unnecessary trips around town.

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COVID-19 & Support Obligations

You are most likely still responsible for any child support or spousal support obligations if you are one of the many whose income is affected with the current “stay at home” order or—even worse—lost your job. If your amount is part of a court order that amount is due on the date ordered.

However, that obligation amount can change if you experience a “substantial change of circumstances.” The loss of income or employment due to recent events may very well qualify as a substantial change in circumstances. In order to seek relief from the payments you owe per a court order, you must file a motion to modify.  If you file a motion to modify the amount now the court may retroactively change the amount back to the first of the month after you filed your motion.

Every case is different though, so it is important that you consult with an attorney.  Contact our office at 919-783-1260 now to set up a consultation with one of our attorneys to discuss modifying your support obligation.

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Contact

Visit Us
4040 Barrett Dr, Suite 200.
Raleigh, NC 27609

Mail Us
P.O. Box 19951
Raleigh, NC 27615

P: 919-783-1260
F: 919-714-0755

Practice Areas

Family Law

Domestic Violence

Employment Law

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The use of the Internet for communication with this firm or any member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship.