COVID-19 has greatly affected the Canadian economy, and while many businesses have temporarily shut down, the personal injury lawyers at Miller Thomson LLP are still keeping our clients' claims moving. In this post, we explain five ways we have adapted to the challenges of litigating in lockdown, to ensure our clients still get the timely results they need.
1. Technology to Work From Anywhere
Our Miller Thomson personal injury team is well equipped to provide the same legal services as if we were working in the office. Our lawyers and staff have full access to your files electronically and remain accessible by telephone and email. As important steps arise, your lawyer can even meet with you through secure virtual platforms such as Zoom, Skype, or Cisco WebEx.
2. Electronic Filing at the Courthouse
The Courthouse may be closed to the public, but we are able to submit documents by e-mail, to ensure your claims are filed on time, and limitation periods are not missed.
3. Remote Questionings
We have even shifted formal questionings under oath to virtual platforms. A Court Reporter hosts the questioning, secures the platform so only the necessary participants have access, and administers the oath/affirmation online. Your lawyer will meet with you prior to questionings to practice with the technology, and prepare you to effectively deliver your evidence.
4. Virtual Mediations
Virtual mediations are very effective strategies for bringing claims to resolution and avoiding trial. These online meetings are hosted by a professional mediator, and start with large group sessions, before the parties break out into private online chats with their lawyers. The mediator then shuttles between the secure chatrooms, just as they would in person. Mediation days can sometimes be very long, but virtual platforms enable you to participate from the comfort and safety of your own home.
5. Virtual Care
The health care sector has also innovated to provide our clients with timely access to assessments and treatment. Independent Medical Examiners can complete preliminary opinions by interviewing you about your symptoms, and watching you perform a series of movements over video-conference. A number of physiotherapy and occupational therapy clinics are also providing virtual services for our clients, including online assessments, treatments, and creating home exercise programs.
Miller Thomson's personal injury team is part of a national, full service law firm, with outstanding access to resources and strategic connections. Through our broad network of legal professionals across the country, we are well positioned to bring claims in other jurisdictions, investigate complex liability questions, and connect with leading experts. We have also invested in building relationships with trusted local clinics and therapists, so we can help our clients obtain timely access to diagnostic and rehabilitation resources, even during the COVID-19 crisis.
During this time of lockdown, our team remains ready and able to help you avoid common mistakes made by accident victims. (See our previous blog post for more information.)
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
