When Your Next Decision Matters
COVID-19 Update: How We Are Serving and Protecting Our Clients
We here at SMDA, PC wanted to let all of our valued clients, past and present, know that we are thinking of you and we are here for you during this unprecedented pandemic.
The COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) pandemic continues to present significant challenges and disruptions across the US and the world. We urge everyone to follow the directives of government authorities and take significant precautions to minimize their risk exposure during this difficult time. Resources and updates about the coronavirus outbreak can be found at the CDC site.
We are closely tracking the rapidly evolving public health and community concerns related to the new coronavirus or COVID-19. Rest assured that we are taking all available steps to remain accessible to our clients as we continue to act in accordance with their best interests during this difficult time.
Please see below for answers to some frequently asked questions, and feel free to reach out to us any time at phils@smdalaw.com or patd@smdalaw.com or (586) 264-3756 for assistance with your legal matter.
At this time, for our existing and prospective clients, we have identified some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) which we hope answers some of the questions you may have regarding your legal matters.
Q: Is your office currently open during normal business hours?
A: Yes. However, we are trying to handle most matters remotely if possible.
Q: When and how can I contact you?
The best way to reach us is to either call or email us during normal business hours. If we are unable to immediately take your call, please leave us a message and, rest assured, we will have the appropriate attorney or assistant return your call as soon as possible. It is our goal to return all calls within 24 hours.
Q: What video chat platforms do you offer for clients?
A: We can use Zoom or Google Hangouts
Q: Are you accepting new clients?
A: Yes, at SMDA we understand that our client’s legal needs are a continuing concern in spite of the Covid19 pandemic. So, we are here to assist you with your legal needs. We have found that most insurance company employees are working remotely from home. Thus, for the most part, we have been able to contact them and attempt to get our clients some answers regarding their legal matters.
How can I get updates regarding the status of my case or legal matter?
A: The best way to reach us is to email one of the following essential staff members:
Phil Serafini at phils@smdalaw.com,
Pat Derkacz at patd@smdalaw.com, or
Jennifer Fuller at jenniferf@smdalaw.com
You may also call us at (586) 264-3756 and press 104 for Phil Serafini, 107 for Pat Derkacz or 112 for Jennifer Fuller to reach one of us directly regarding your legal matter. If we are unable to immediately take your call, please leave us a message and, rest assured, we will have the appropriate attorney or assistant return your call as soon as possible. It is our goal to return all calls within 24 hours.
Q: Are courts of law still open in my area? Will my court date be rescheduled? What if I can’t come to court because I’m sick or quarantined?
A: Yes. The Courts have reopened. However, many are conducting matters almost exclusively via Zoom.
Q: Will scheduled depositions, trials, mediation, arbitration, or settlement negotiations occur as planned?
A: Yes. Most of these proceedings are being conducted via Zoom.