COVID-19: Southeast PA Court Closures & Legal Info

COVID-19 has impacted the lives of many in and around Chester County, PA as well as people across the world. As the situation continues to evolve, Skinner Law wants to reassure our clients and the communities we serve that we are taking this situation seriously, and putting safety measures in place that prioritize the health and well-being of our clients and staff. We also want to ensure you get the answers and consummate legal guidance you expect.

As a firm, we are carefully monitoring and adhering to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pennsylvania Department of Health, other government agency guidance, and staying abreast of any changes or updates.

Attorney Skinner and our staff have been advised on the practical measures to help stem the tide of COVID-19, including regular hand washing, the use of hand sanitizer, frequently disinfecting commonly touched areas, and social distancing whenever possible. This involves using video and phone conferences and communicating via phone and e-mail to limit in-person interaction.

If you are an existing client and have a question about your case in light of the COVID 19 pandemic or you were recently charged with a crime, please call (610) 436-1410 or send us a message online. We are available and will be in touch as soon as possible.

We are Available & Working

Skinner Law is working hard to address your needs and questions.

Because the situation remains fluid, there may be some instances where we are working remotely. However, we are operating normally, still have access to all pending cases, and are actively working to resolve matters favorably.

Skinner Will Keep You Informed

Attorney Skinner is closely monitoring all client deadlines, court closures, and will continue to keep you updated, should something change.

If things continue to progress, we will explore all available options to provide you with the best possible representation. This may include using video depositions and testimony, e-document filing, and other tools should the need arise.

Southeast Pennsylvania Court Closures

As courts across the country take measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, some are restricting access and altering their procedures. In many Pennsylvania counties, civil and criminal matters scheduled for trial are being continued until further notice. But some local courts are proceeding with reduced cases.

For example, Chester County courts are currently limiting operations. All preliminary hearing, ARD hearings, or summary appeals have been postponed through April 13, 2020. Trial level matters are operating as normal but will be looked at on a case by case basis.

If you have a case scheduled in any of the following, reach out to attorney Skinner to discuss how the closure affects you:

• Pennsylvania Supreme Court
• Pennsylvania Superior Court
• Commonwealth Court
• Chester County Court
• Delaware County Court
• Lancaster County Court
• Montgomery County Court

Due to the fluidity of the situation, we are updating our clients when we receive new information.

Pending Criminal Charges & Those in Custody

If you are involved in an active criminal case, you should carefully monitor the court website and call to find out what is expected of you.

Certain appointment types, such as probation or parole and CRN have moved to phone calls as opposed to in-person meetings. If anyone has an in-person meeting scheduled, they should reach out to the appropriate office for updates.

Do not miss any hearings or other court-mandated requirements without confirmation from your lawyer.

No one wants accusations and criminal charges hanging over their heads for any longer than necessary. Being charged with a crime is stressful enough, and to have that process extend longer than it should just add to the stress. We are making sure that whenever possible – we are striving to avoid unnecessary delays for clients in custody and to expedite resolutions for those impacted by COVID-19.

You Can Always Count on Us

Your case and the dedicated service Attorney Skinner provides will not be impacted despite this uniquely challenging time. We appreciate your patience and we will continue to keep you up to date.

We are actively working to move current cases towards resolution and taking consultations for those seeking our services once everything is running normally.

Attorney Skinner remains available at (610) 436-1410.

We’re All In this Together

We hope that you and your families are safe. Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We truly appreciate your choice in deciding to work with an attorney who will fight for you no matter what. We look forward to continuing to work together to resolve your current and future legal issues.