With the rapid development of the Covid-19 virus over recent weeks, we felt it important to notify all of our clients of the steps that we are taking to ensure your family law matter progresses smoothly in these uncertain times.

We are lucky at Expatriate Law to have advanced systems for remote working, that have been tried and tested over the years to suit our lawyers that work in our Dubai and Singapore offices. We run a paperless office, with all client documents being held on a remote secure server, with access for each lawyer working on an individual matter. This allows our lawyers and support staff to co-work on a case seamlessly, regardless of location. We have an efficient video link system that works across jurisdictions, allowing our lawyers to 'virtually' sit face to face with our clients.

We were one of the first firms to pilot the new Courts (HMCTS) online filing system, allowing us to issue divorce petitions and financial applications online without a court attendance. Whilst this has not been our preferred option whilst the courts were open and running, as the online system still has certain restrictions, we are able to use this going forward should the courts close for all personal attendances. At the time of writing on 18 March 2020, the courts remain open, and we are at the forefront to obtain information from the courts about the extent to which hearings will run. The National Lead Judge of the Financial Remedies Courts, Sir Nicholas Mostyn, produced a directive yesterday, 17 March 2020, encouraging all hearings to take place via video link, and all documents and court bundles to be lodged by email.

Clients will be able to continue to reach your lawyer on their direct line number, and by email or video link. Our team will continue to work our usual firm opening hours of 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday (UK and Singapore) and Sunday to Thursday (Dubai).

Wishing well to all those affected,

The Team at Expatriate Law

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances. For any further queries or follow up please contact Expatriate Law at info@expatriatelaw.com.