A few months ago none of us would have envisaged working under the conditions we find ourselves now.
It has been a steep learning curve over the last few weeks but on reflection we are pleased with what we have achieved and the way in which the team at AST Hampsons has responded to ensure that we are able to keep cases moving for our clients while acquiring new juggling skills in working from home, supporting our elderly neighbours and of course, the challenge of home schooling at the same time!
Right now, none of us know how the virus and the lockdown are going to affect either ourselves, our families or our business practices in future but we are absolutely certain about one thing and that is that we will find a way in which to progress.
The housing market has been affected by delays due to the restrictions imposed as a result of the pandemic but our Conveyancing teams are all working (remotely in the main as are all of our departments) to ensure that as soon as restrictions are lifted, dates for house moves can be agreed.
We have been able so far and continue, to progress a number of matters for our clients where the properties are empty to include equity transfers and investment purchases and we have also happily been able to complete house purchases and re-mortgages where the purchaser/owner is already resident.
Similarly our Commercial team have been dealing with loan agreements, advice regarding corporate restructure and leases as well as sales and purchases of business premises.
Our Family team have been continually busy dealing with requests for advice and support in managing arrangements for children in light of the current pandemic; advising as to options in respect of financial issues and conducting court hearings - now by video and telephone!! This is in addition to progressing as appropriate current cases for clients, whether this be divorce, or financial and children matters.
Our Wills and Probate team have never been busier with many more clients having the time to consider planning for their future and also with COVID-19 concentrating their thoughts on arranging their wills or powers of attorney and of course progressing applications for probate and estate administration.
Within the Clinical Negligence and Personal Injury team matters continue very much as usual although with the reduction in travel there is a lower level of enquiry in relation to road traffic accidents.
All of our teams are able to conduct ‘face to face’ meetings via video conferencing and in some circumstances where it is essential, arrangements can be made for appointments within our offices. Our clients are still able to contact us through the usual routes of our direct dial numbers, office numbers and email and we are pleased to be able to continue in a very much ‘business as usual’ manner to ensure that we can provide the services our clients have come to expect over the years.