Coronavirus threat?

What’s the worst that could happen?

There’s nothing like the threat of a widespread Coronavirus epidemic to throw a monkey wrench into your divorce case. I’m kidding, a little bit. So far, so good. But maybe you’re a worrier and like to think through worst-case scenarios. So, if this Coronavirus situation gets worse, how will that affect your divorce case, if at all?

Emergency Phone

Epic Delay

The most likely impact of a disease epidemic (like the Coronavirus) on your divorce case is delay. And delay can be a powerful stressor when you just want your divorce to be over. What are some possible delays you might face?

Potential Coronavirus Delays

1. Courts closed. Courts are open during regular business hours. They’re closed for national holidays. Sometimes, they close for weather. If the courts close because of the coronavirus, you may not be able to have necessary hearings to move your case along. Divorce cases often involve multiple court appearances like temporary hearings, status conferences, and trials.
2. Key players unavailable. People who have COVID-19 are unlikely to prioritize working on your divorce case. Divorce cases have a lot of players. If they aren’t available, your case may stall for a while. Your divorce team may include:
   • Parties
   • Attorneys and legal staff
   • Mediator
   • Guardian Ad Litem
   • Financial Expert
   • Mental health professionals
3. Kids and finances. If schools are closed for any period of time for coronavirus, you and your spouse will have to arrange childcare. That can be expensive and time-consuming. It could also mean that any custody investigations get put on hold.

But relax.

Relax. The chances are pretty slim that Coronavirus is going to impact your divorce. (But maybe?) Remember Bird flu and SARS? We were really worried about those, too. And things settled down pretty quickly.