What Does COVID-19 Mean for my Pending Legal Case?

Nearly every industry has experienced wide-spread changes with the current COVID-19 pandemic—the legal industry included. With many states and counties easing restrictions, it’s easy to believe that things are on their way back to “normal.” However, pending legal actions may continue to be affected for many more months. Below is a brief discussion of how your legal case may be affected going forward

What does COVID-19 mean for your pending action?

Typical in the legal field, the answer is “it depends.” Many states and counties have handled things differently, but a few changes may apply across the board.

The biggest factor that may affect your case is timing.

Many hearings and trials are being continued in order to reduce the number of individuals in the courthouse. Your case may experience delays in terms of continuances and later trial dates. Alternatively, many attorneys are participating in Zoom and telephone conference hearings rather than appearing in person.

Certain collections actions are experiencing changes as well.

For example, Iowa garnishments and executions are currently put on pause. Many states have placed limitations on a landlord’s ability to evict tenants during the pandemic. The judgment interest rate has also been reduced to the lowest its’ been since 2014.

Not only have pending legal actions been affected, but presumably many future legal actions are coming to fruition as many companies and individuals struggle with the current state of the economy.

Even if there’s been no direct order affecting your legal action, there may be delays in getting your case heard before the Court and/or resolved. Each case, depending on subject matter and location, will be affected very differently. You will want to discuss with your attorney the circumstances surrounding your case.

Call the experienced attorneys at the Goosmann Law Firm, PLC, in our Omaha, Sioux City, or Sioux Falls offices to discuss how your case may be impacted and what options are available to keep the process moving.