Stacy L. Moon, Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani LLP, Birmingham, AL
With the COVID-19 crisis affecting our clients across practice areas and across the country, having a nationwide resource of contacts and communication is essential. DRI’s eCommunities have been a strong part of handling the crisis and getting strong, accurate information in areas in which we may not always practice.
Just two examples: The Employment Law eCommunity members freely and generously provided write-ups, insights, bounced questions off each other, and asked what advice other lawyers were giving in light of the Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act (EFMLEA). Members shared their firms’ analyses of a fluid situation and just helped with “gut checks” in light of a massive (not always well-written) new statute. With the shelter in place and other restrictions, the members continue to be a resource to each other. But as importantly, the eCommunity has provided a way to feel as if we are not all working alone, at home. It has provided a very real connection.
Meanwhile, the Commercial Litigation and Intellectual Property seminars have been postponed due to the COVID-19 crisis. Planning members exchanged ideas regarding how to reschedule or still provide attendees with the information and the collegiality of the seminar, all while facing questions from clients and concerns about themselves and their families.
Finally, the DRI for Life committee is making available resources to lawyers known through eCommunity postings.
COVID-19 is creating challenges for all of us. The DRI Community is stepping up together to help each other find creative and effective solutions to help all of our clients and to help each other.