Attorneys at Smith Haughey are actively helping clients respond to issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We know that information is both increasing and changing rapidly, so we have formed a COVID-19 Resource Group to help streamline this information for our clients. The COVID-19 Resource Group, consisting of eight attorneys from multiple practice areas, is closely monitoring developments from Lansing, legislation from Washington, D.C., and guidance from various state and federal agencies, including the CDC and OSHA. The Resource Group is also closely monitoring case law from around the nation that may impact questions of liability and compliance.
The Resource Group’s formation and collection of information has enabled Smith Haughey’s attorneys to provide efficient and timely advice to our clients. Smith Haughey’s employment law attorneys have counseled clients regarding layoffs, workforce management, workers’ compensation, compliance with the paid leave requirements under Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), the Governor’s Executive Orders, return to work procedures, and the legal implications of compliance, whether under the ADA, FLSA, or otherwise. Our business and real estate attorneys have assisted adversely impacted businesses in obtaining funds through the CARES Act and similar programs, and have provided counsel on supply chain issues, contract modification and interpretation, corporate governance, landlord – tenant relationships, and construction law. The firm’s litigation attorneys have helped clients respond to commercial business disputes, including under the Uniform Commercial Code, have defended and enforced contractual rights, including issues associated with force majeure, and have provided guidance on insurance coverage questions and liability waivers. Our litigation attorneys have also kept current on federal, state, and local courtroom procedures and are actively seeking to use new technologies to keep active cases moving forward, whether in the form of discovery, remote hearings, or opportunities for remote mediations and dispute resolution. Our family law and private client services teams are similarly providing counsel and continued support to our clients.
As businesses across the state and region begin to reopen, Smith Haughey’s attorneys and its COVID-19 Resource Group stand prepared to help our clients respond with current information. If you are working with a Smith Haughey attorney, you may contact them as usual. If you are not yet a client and have a legal need or wish to establish a relationship with our firm, please review this website and reach out to one of our attorneys so that we may respond. We hope to be a resource for your legal questions.