Although the courthouses for Collin County and surrounding counties are closed for non-essential hearings and, even essential hearing are being conducted by video conference, it is possible to still move forward on cases.  The Collin County courts have issued a Joint Statement Encouraging Mediation.
     Mediation is common in most family law cases before trial. The Collin County judges have clarified that they still expect mediations to take place if they can be done by video/remote  conference.  The courts do not want parties canceling mediation simply because the mediation can’t be done in person.
    Additionally, the Collin County courts are encouraging all issues that might usually require a hearing be heard by a mediator.  For instance, typically at the beginning of a family law case there will be a Temporary Order hearing to put orders in place during the pendency of the case. Rather than have people in limbo because they can’t have a hearing in front of the judge, the judges want people to mediate those issues so a hearing isn’t necessary. This can’t prevent a back log of cases and give people guidance without having to wait for the courts to open back up.
     If you have questions or need assistance, you can still schedule a phone consultation to answer your questions at 972-542-6820 or [email protected]. 
            

We are all facing uncertain times due to the corona virus. It has affected everyone and changed the way we go about our day to day lives. One of the biggest changes is that kids aren't going to school and are home all day. I've received several questions about how school changes affect custody possession schedules. 

The Collin County District Courts have addressed some of this uncertainty by issuing an "Emergency Standing Order Regarding Possession Schedule During School Closures." These emergency orders state "the original published school schedule shall control in all instances." So parents should continue drop off and pick up schedules according to the regular school district calendars that were in place prior to COVID-19.  Additionally the orders state that if the school closures continue into the summer, the regular summer schedule applies including schedules for Extended Summer Possession. 

If you have any questions about custody schedules, we are still offering phone and video consultations. You can contact us at 972-542-6820 or [email protected].