In the aftermath of COVID-19, people will still need the help of attorneys, whether to get divorced, settle business discrepancies, or hold negligent parties accountable for wrongful death or personal injury. However, new trends in litigation could appear in the months and years ahead — in ways we have never seen before.
Employment Litigation
Work situations have had to change all over the country as we have dealt with social distancing, stay-at-home orders, and other new regulations. Some employees may have been asked to work in strange, unsafe, and maybe even illegal conditions. Those who could not work from home may not have been afforded the right protections, whether with a lack of personal protective equipment, symptom screening, or adherence to distancing requirements. Those who have had to work overtime may not have been paid properly. Others might have been laid off during this time without proper cause.
It’s important for all employees to know that they have a right to a safe and appropriate workplace. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has shared existing laws and new guidance that apply to working during the pandemic. Those who feel that they have been subject to an unsafe or unfair work situation could speak with a lawyer for advice.
Medical Malpractice
Everyone in the healthcare field has been put under a substantial amount of stress in treating an increased volume of patients. Given the urgency of medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare facilities and professionals might have been put in a position where they had to cut corners with supplies, medications, and medical guidance. Long-term care facilities like nursing homes are already under scrutiny for their handling of outbreak prevention. Patients who suffered harm as a result of medical missteps during this time may ask an attorney for some advice when the pandemic has subsided.
As this new narrative continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how the civil justice system will play a part.
