Hecht Schondorf can help during this crisis.
Friends and Clients,
As we all know by now, we are in the midst of a Coronavirus (COVID19) global pandemic the likes of which none of us have ever experienced. Schools are closed or closing, all sports leagues have either suspended or postponed their seasons and state and local governments are encouraging people to stay home and practice social distancing as ways to stop or slow down the of the virus. Yesterday, the Circuit Court of Cook County announced that it would be suspending all but a few of its operations for 30 days. Today, Governors Pritzker (IL) and DeWine (OH) issued orders shutting down all bars and restaurants for two weeks. We are reviewing these orders and will advise further as necessary. Expect more to come.
As the availability of testing continues to be virtually non-existent, we have no idea the scope of this pandemic or how many people already have the virus. The unknown is what compels me to write to you today. We don’t know what further measures our state and local governments will take should the situation deteriorate further. We need to be prepared as best we can for whatever comes next.
Although it seems like a year ago, just 48 hours ago I wrote everyone about force majuere and pandemics, advising everyone to review their leases, financing agreements, insurance policies, and other contracts to determine what rights and responsibilities they have in their businesses in these uncertain times. Right now, contractual provisions most of you thought were absurd and unnecessary are now rising to the forefront of the path ahead. It is imperative that everyone take the time to review all of their contracts to make sure they are protected in the event the business climate further deteriorates and your (our) livelihoods are put in danger. It is not a matter of if you will be impacted, but rather when and how much.
While Mark and I have advised our attorneys and staff to stay home, we are ready to help all of our friends and clients navigate the quagmire. Give us a call or send us an email. Our physical office may be closed, but our virtual office remains open and operating. Let us review your contracts and advise you of your options. Knowing your options could literally save your business and your livelihood. We are here to help.
Adam Hecht, Principal
Hecht Schondorf, LLC