Despite the many challenges posed by the COVID-19 crisis during the past year plus, we have worked hard to keep our clients’ personal injury cases and Maryland Worker’s Compensation claims moving forward. The Law Offices of Butschky and Butschky have been advocating for our clients throughout the pandemic, following every public safety order issued by Governor Larry Hogan’s office, while fighting just as hard as ever for our clients’ rights.
Now, the Maryland Courts are getting back to business as they resume Phase V of emergency operations, including jury trials. These changes, which began April 26, 2021, have a direct impact on our clients’ Maryland personal injury cases as well as Work Comp claims….
While it’s good news that Maryland Courts plan to resume “normal” operations, the reality is these changes do not happen overnight. We personal injury attorneys have been working under the COVID-19 related rules and guidelines, which have changed frequently and can vary from courthouse to courthouse (for example, some are doing in-person jury trials, where others are doing them virtually via videoconferencing). Many courts are staggering when hearings may be heard to limit the flow of attorneys, clients, and members of the public moving through the buildings. On top of all this, the U.S. Mail has slowed down to a crawl, so court documents and other legal papers may be backed up in the system, waiting to be delivered.
All this means we are not back to business as usual in the Maryland courts system — so it’s more important than ever to have an experienced Maryland accident injury attorney who knows how to work within an often chaotic legal system. COVID-19 made what can be a disorienting legal system for the general public even more challenging to navigate.
If you do have a case that means showing up in court … be prepared to be screened for COVID-19. Despite a reduction in cases, the coronavirus has not disappeared and people continue to get sick and die every day. “The same health protocols will remain in place for anyone who enters a courthouse or Judiciary facility, consistent with CDC guidelines, including wearing masks, social distancing, plexiglass barriers, hand sanitizer, and cleaning protocols to limit the risk of COVID-19 transmission,” said Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera.
Maryland residents with court cases should check the state’s Local Court Information for COVID-19 related orders and policies issued by the individual courts, including screening protocols and hours that certain types of court cases may be heard. Above all, make sure you hire an experienced personal injury attorney to do the hard work for you, if you’ve been injured in an accident or at work. Please contact us toll-free at (800) 722-6616 for a free consultation.
Sources:
Maryland Judiciary Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates
Maryland Courts website, updated April 30, 2021
Jury trials to resume in criminal and civil cases statewide on April 26
Maryland Courts press release April 23, 2021