The changes that have occurred throughout the country and the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic have affected every aspect of our lives. The legal system is no exception. Those with pending legal matters or who have legal matters that have arisen during the pandemic have been forced to find alternative ways to resolve their issues. Nearly every court in the country is following safe-at-home guidance, which has led to a great deal of confusion and frustration.
The good news is all courts, no matter how drastically their operations were affected, have continued to provide access to support for legal matters related to safety and domestic violence. But this does not extend to those dealing with run-of-the-mill family law issues. In many cases, those have been delayed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
New Arbitration Tool Helps Those with Family Law Issues
Remote meetings have become the norm during this unusual time and the legal field is no exception regarding this change. Though many issues have been put on hold, those who want to keep things moving forward have the option of a temporary order of arbitration. This process allows those involved in a legal dispute to participate in a modified arbitration process that leads to a temporary solution.
Like most forms of alternative dispute resolution, a temporary order of arbitration allows those involved to choose the arbitrator. They submit information, in the same manner, they would for a temporary order hearing and oral arguments occur virtually if they are needed.
He temporary order of arbitration means a matter can be resolved, at least temporarily, even though in-person meetings are not permitted during this time. The benefits of opting to use this tool include:
- Freedom to choose the third-party arbitrator who will oversee your case
- Allows for a more flexible submission schedule
- Permits parties to forego oral arguments
- Allows for virtual arguments via video
- Reduces the cost of the process because parties do not need to pay for the cost of traveling to and from court
- Saves time
- Provides a final decision that does not need revising during the lockdown orders
- Could offer a resolution for some issues in a more timely matter in the future
Reduces the need to “start from scratch” later on
A temporary order of arbitration allows family law lawyers and their clients to reach an efficient and timely resolution during this unusual time. In compliance with social distancing guidelines, but also allows people to move forward with important issues in their lives.
Although things are beginning to open back and things seem to be returning to normal, nobody knows what the future holds. We are facing a “new normal,” and people must find ways to adjust, especially when it comes to family legal issues.
If you would like to learn more about using a temporary order of arbitration in Milwaukee or the surrounding areas, The Law Office of John F. Zeckel, S.C. can help. Contact them at 262-255-2050 for more information.
