As the nation hunkers down to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), bankruptcy courts throughout the country have moved quickly to implement procedures to preserve access to the courts while limiting in-person interaction during the crisis.  Each court’s specific COVID-19 procedures are different, but they largely prohibit in-person hearings, recognize the need for flexibility and adjournments for non-emergent matters whenever possible, and encourage the creative use of technology to allow as many matters to go forward as scheduled, including evidentiary hearings.  A schedule summarizing COVID-19 procedures adopted in various jurisdictions can be accessed HERE.  We expect regular amendments as the crisis unfolds and the economic fallout increases the volume of cases requiring bankruptcy court intervention.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to the Kelley Drye bankruptcy team with any questions or for any assistance during this time.  For additional up-to-date information about the potential legal and business implications of the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the latest advisories and legal updates on COVID-19 we invite you to visit Kelley Drye’s COVID-19 Resource Center website.