With infection rates of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) stabilizing in some parts of the world and skyrocketing in others as some states and countries reopen, it’s hard to tell what the future looks like for many businesses, including law firms.
Ben Gerber, the cofounder of Gerber & Holder, was recently interviewed by Enjuris, a popular online resource for personal injury and workers’ compensation plaintiffs. For this interview, Ben was asked about the impact of the pandemic on his law firm and what that has meant for his clients.
Effect of increase in cases
With the number of new COVID-19 cases in Georgia risking quickly in June and July, there are some residents who might be concerned that law firms might not be considered essential businesses and be forced to close for the duration of the pandemic.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp stated in a recent interview that while the coronavirus pandemic may continue, he doesn’t plan to lock down Georgia’s borders or close businesses again. Even if this doesn’t go according to plan, those who receive indemnity benefits and medical treatment shouldn’t have to worry.
“The services we [at Gerber & Holder] provide ensure that our clients continue to receive weekly indemnity benefits and medical treatment,” Ben Gerber told Enjuris. “These are thankfully considered essential and allow our clients to survive during this crisis.”
Effect on staff
Ben assured Enjuris readers that Gerber & Holder law firm is operating as normal—with a few changes to abide by the necessary precautions in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“Our staff and attorneys are all working remotely. Our system was set up to handle working from different locations before the pandemic, so nothing has changed in that respect.”
In addition, we have limited the number of staff members inside our offices to one at a time to perform a few daily tasks, like checking the mail, while others work from home and utilize systems such as video conferencing and paperless documents.
COVID-19 has created new challenges in the workplace, forcing workers, employers and insurers to reconsider how they handle issues like safety protocols, workplace injuries and workers’ compensation benefits.
Effect on clients
When asked if clients currently in the middle of a case are worried they won’t continue to receive compensation or make it to their doctor’s appointments, Ben acknowledged that some are concerned. However, he reassured readers by saying:
“If you are presently getting a check, that should continue.”
As for doctor’s appointments, it varies according to individual doctors and the policies in place at their practice or the hospital they work in, as well as the comfort levels of each client.
Effect on future clients
Just because COVID-19 is causing a pandemic doesn’t mean the world comes to a complete stop. Businesses are still running, which means the potential for a job injury still exists. If a Georgia worker suddenly finds themselves in need of a lawyer, will they be able to turn to Gerber & Holder?
The answer to that is 100 percent yes. Ben affirmed:
“The best way to reach us during the crisis is by calling or emailing our office.”
Our team wants all Georgians to know that we remain dedicated to representing injured workers during these difficult times. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured on the job, you have the legal right to seek counsel.
With years of success and the belief that each client has a unique case, our experienced attorneys are ready to listen to your concerns and discuss your case when you contact one of our offices in Athens, Atlanta or Columbus today. Your free consultation awaits!
