Harkins Elder Law

In an effort to further restrict potential COVID-19 exposure within the courts, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court today announced that all Pennsylvania courts in...cluding trial and intermediate appellate courts are closed to the public for non-essential functions through at least April 3, 2020. The statewide court closure also includes magisterial district courts, Philadelphia Municipal Court, and Pittsburgh Municipal Court, Arraignment Division. In addition, the Court has suspended all time calculations and deadlines relevant to court cases or other judicial business through April 3, 2020. The Court has also authorized and encouraged the use of advanced communication technology to conduct emergency court proceedings. Read the full press release here: http://www.pacourts.us/news-and-statistics/news?Article=1018

I’ve been so impressed with the response to support those in need. I know that my clients are among the most vulnerable. If you need help during this time, please just reach out to me and let me know. I can’t promise to solve every problem, but I’ll do what I can.I’ve been so impressed with the response to support those in need. I know that my clients are among the most vulnerable. If you need help during this time, please just reach out to me and let me know. I can’t promise to solve every problem, but I’ll do what I can.

We understand how crucial it is during this time for people to have updated estate plans in place including Wills and Powers of Attorney. That being said, in order to limit any potential spread of illness, initial consultations to set up your plan can be done online or over the phone. While document signing must still be done in person to make them legally effective, we can arrange to do this quickly, at a location of your choosing while taking all necessary precautions. Call 724-472-8717 or visit www.harkinselderlaw.com to set up a virtual appointment.

This whole situation has many people evaluating their preparedness for an emergency. From a legal point of view, having an up to date Will, Financial Power of Attorney and Healthcare Power of Attorney/Living Will is a good starting point for most people. If you’re interested in learning more, but prefer staying at home, house calls are an option. Call 724-472-8717 or visit www.harkinselderlaw.com to set up your virtual appointment.

Another reason why it’s crucial to have an estate plan in place that includes powers of attorney, which would be crucial to allow a trusted person to sign checks, pay bills etc on your behalf as well as to make medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot.