Like everything else, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted civil litigation. The Georgia Supreme Court suspended almost all civil case activities beginning March 14, 2020 which continued through July 14, 2020. Although many proceedings are now permitted, with remote or socially distanced procedures, including pleadings, motions, motion hearings, and civil discovery (interrogatories, requests for production of documents and depositions), there is still a prohibition on jury trials. Even when that restriction is lifted, it will take many months for the Courts to work through the backlog of cases, particularly because of the priority given to criminal cases, and the additional courtroom space that will be required to conduct trials safely.

Despite the disruption, we have found that we have been able to keep most of our cases moving forward toward resolution. Our technology allows us to work remotely. We are able to continue to analyze documents, conduct research, provide advice, and communicate with opposing counsel. We have participated in motions hearings using the Zoom video conference platform. We have filed new actions and responded to new actions filed by opposing parties. We have participated in mediations using safety and distancing precautions. Now that civil discovery is permitted again, we expect to resume conducting depositions.

There have of course been difficulties. Generally, it takes longer to get things done because everyone’s response times are slower. Postal service has slowed significantly, which has an impact on probate court proceedings because probate courts do not yet permit electronic filing.

We want to thank our clients for the confidence you continue to express in us by letting us represent you, and we want to thank our many friends and colleagues for continuing to refer cases to us. We look forward to continuing to serve you in resolving your fiduciary and business-related disputes.