The end of 2020 could not come soon enough for many people. COVID-19 changed our way of life this past year, and we all have had to adjust to a new normal. States across the country issued executive orders, including temporarily closing non-essential businesses in an effort to stop the spread of the virus. With so many out of work or taking a pay cut, an unprecedented number of people filed for unemployment. In addition, health and safety officials advised against big gatherings, which meant families spent more time at home than ever before. A rise in certain crimes resulted, including traffic violations such as speeding, as well as domestic violence and theft. Law firms are considered essential businesses, so they have continued to offer clients legal representation when they need it most, albeit virtually in some cases. 2021 is looking more positive with a vaccine starting to be administered. Elite Lawyer is committed to assisting our members in 2021 and beyond. 

Networking and Collaborating for a Better Future Together 

For those facing a legal issue, whether it be criminal charges, divorce, estate planning, personal injury, or family law issues, finding an attorney may seem like a daunting process. Many people may not even know where to start, and that is why the Elite Lawyer directory is such a benefit. Users can search for lawyers or law firms by state or practice area in a comprehensive listing of attorneys all over the United States. Only legal professionals who meet or exceed specific criteria receive the Elite Lawyer award, which sets them apart from their peers so consumers know they are looking at the cream of the crop. 

For attorneys who wish to network with colleagues on topics within the same practice area, the Elite Lawyer directory can be an invaluable resource. The online database makes it an easy search tool regardless of what state someone is in. Attorneys may be considered for the Elite Lawyer award either through a nomination by their peers or the Elite Lawyer Advisory Panel, or by client recommendation or feedback. The review process includes rating and evaluating attorneys based on: 

• Education

• Legal experience

• Professional achievement

• Reputation

• Community involvement

• Settlement and verdicts

• Special licensing and certification 

• Number of years in practice

• Bar admissions

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, many law firms have utilized virtual teleconferencing apps to meet with clients instead of in person. In many cases, they are able to resolve certain legal matters that may not require going to court. With a COVID-19 vaccine already being administered throughout the country, some restrictions may be lifted. However, law firms may continue to use online meetings since it may be more convenient for their clients. If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that we are resilient, and if we work together, we can achieve great things. 

Contact Elite Lawyer Today

There is no doubt that 2020 was challenging for everyone. We all know how much the coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on the nation, causing a global health crisis, which in turn resulted in an economic downturn. At Elite Lawyer, we are committed to providing support to the legal community. If you have any questions about the Elite Lawyer directory or the Elite Lawyer scholarship program, or if you would like to nominate an attorney for the Elite Lawyer award, contact us today at 833-40-ELITE (833-403-5483).

The Elite Lawyer rating service and directory recognizes outstanding attorneys across the United States who have demonstrated a commitment to the legal community. We are proud to support the next generation of legal professionals by sponsoring our second annual scholarship for students who are pursuing higher education and who would like to make a difference in their communities. Last year’s winner was University of Minnesota student Evan Bannow. While the world is still facing economic and health challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we at Elite Lawyer recognize that today’s college students need support now more than ever. In response to these uncertain times, we are encouraging all eligible students to enter for a chance to win a $500 scholarship that may go toward tuition or other educational expenses at the college or university level.

Who Is Eligible?

As a higher-ed student, you can apply for the Spring 2021 Elite Lawyer Scholarship if you meet the following criteria:

• You are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited college or university within the United States.

• Your education will continue through the Spring 2021 semester or beyond.

• You are at least 18 years old.

• Your current GPA is at least 3.0.

Applicant Criteria

In order to be considered, qualified applicants must submit either a 500-word essay or a 2-minute video presentation that answers the following question: What positive change are you working to bring to your community in the new year? 

While many have suffered losses this past year, whether it be a family member to COVID or perhaps a job layoff, it has also been a time of reflection for everyone. With in-person gatherings restricted and many events postponed or canceled, it is easy to feel discouraged. However, brighter days are ahead, so that is why we want to know what you are doing to enhance your life and those around you. By coming together, we can implement positivity during these unprecedented times. 

The deadline to apply is midnight CST on February 14, 2021. All applications will be carefully reviewed by our committee, and a winner will be selected based on these three factors:

1. A commitment to making a positive impact in your community

2. Thoughtfulness, originality, and creativity

3. Quality of the essay, including organization, clarity, and grammar

The winner will be notified by March 1, 2021, and he or she may be featured on the Elite Lawyer website. If you have any questions, contact us at [email protected]. Best of luck to all of our applicants!

Contact Elite Lawyer Today

At Elite Lawyer, we understand how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our country physically, economically, and emotionally, and we are here to provide support to members of the legal community. Attorneys throughout the United States can network and collaborate, allowing them to provide the legal help their clients need. To learn more about the Elite Lawyer scholarship program or nominate an attorney for the Elite Lawyer award, contact us today at 833-40-ELITE (833-403-5483).

Our world has changed in the past year due to the global pandemic of COVID-19. Many people have been working remotely from home in an effort to slow or stop the spread of the highly contagious virus. Businesses that are deemed essential have been allowed to stay open, including law offices. However, to maintain health and safety protocols, many legal matters are being conducted virtually through teleconferencing programs such as Zoom, Google Meets, or FaceTime. In addition, those who are in need of legal representation often use the Internet to begin their search for an attorney. A lawyer’s online presence is key to standing out, and this includes receiving awards and recognitions, such as being named an Elite Lawyer. 

Standing Out From the Crowd

The Elite Lawyer award recognizes attorneys who have achieved a high level of success in their practice areas as well as acknowledgment from their peers, community, bar, and committees. This recognition is based on an attorney meeting specific criteria, including:

• Years in practice with good standing

• Verdicts and settlements

• Peer nominations

• Bar association memberships and involvement

• Client testimonials

• Community involvement

Part of being an Elite Lawyer is inclusion in a reputable directory for attorneys, which consumers can use when looking to hire a highly respected lawyer near them. People in need of legal assistance can search for an attorney based on geographical location and/or practice area. Elite Lawyer attorney bios also give a brief synopsis of each attorney, including their firm’s name, other awards they have received, their educational background, volunteer groups, interests outside of work, and more. This information allows people to quickly find the skilled legal counsel they are looking for so they can proceed with getting their matter successfully resolved. Elite Lawyer profiles can boost or enhance a law firm’s online presence, and they provide a reliable and reputable resource for finding the right attorney to fit an individual’s unique situation. Having the Elite Lawyer distinction can help attorneys rank higher in search results. 

Contact Elite Lawyer Today

At Elite Lawyer, we recognize the tireless efforts of attorneys across the United States who are working to provide high-quality legal service during this tumultuous time. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has changed everyone’s way of life, we are open and here to support our members throughout the legal community. By networking to collaborate and share ideas, attorneys across the country can continue to advocate on their clients’ behalf for any type of legal matter they need to be resolved. To nominate an Elite Lawyer or learn more about the award program and our directory, contact us today at 833-40-ELITE (833-403-5483).

There is no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected people’s lives all over the world. Local government officials issued stay-at-home orders in an effort to slow the spread of the highly contagious virus. In addition, non-essential businesses were closed temporarily, while other companies allowed employees to work remotely from home. Despite these restrictions, individuals may still have important legal issues that need attention. Attorneys are considered essential, and although law firms have remained open the last six months, they had to alter the way they do business. In order to adhere to health and safety guidelines, law practices across the United States are now using technology like never before to meet their clients’ needs. Whether a couple is considering a divorce or creating their estate plan, they may be able to complete them virtually with the help of a skilled Elite Lawyer.    

Digital Options for Addressing Legal Matters

A law firm’s Web presence is more important now than ever before since those who need legal help are likely starting their search on the Internet. With social distancing still in effect in many states, attorneys are now utilizing digital technology to stay connected with their clients. Online scheduling platforms like Calendly and similar programs allow potential clients to make appointments or arrange initial consultations to discuss their cases. Being listed in a reputable legal directory such as Elite Lawyer can also be a tremendous benefit to enhance a firm’s reputation.

While some courts have opened back up recently, many may still be closed. In response to the closures, certain legal proceedings are now being conducted online. A virtual divorce can be completed online through teleconferencing or video conferencing. This allows couples to legally end their marriage without leaving their homes, which can save them time and money in traveling to and from the court building. For example, in Illinois, the process may begin by filing a petition for dissolution of marriage online. Many people are embracing new technology such as Zoom, FaceTime, or Google Meets instead of meeting in-person to resolve issues such as parenting time or the division of property and assets. In many high-conflict divorce cases, a couple cannot even stand to be in the same room, so resolving issues virtually can make for a less contentious process.  

Contact Elite Lawyer Today

At Elite Lawyer, we recognize that attorneys across the United States are working tirelessly to provide legal service during these unprecedented times. With all the changes due to COVID-19, we are open and here to support our members throughout the legal community. By working together to collaborate and share ideas, attorneys can continue advocating for their clients to achieve the best possible outcomes regardless of the type of legal issue they are facing. To nominate an Elite Lawyer or learn more about the award program and our directory, contact us today at 833-40-ELITE (833-403-5483).

Source:
https://abc7chicago.com/family/virtual-divorces-offer-alternative-for-couples-splitting-up-during-covid-19/6196449/

Elite Lawyer is pleased to announce that Evan Bannow has been selected as the winner of our 2020 Scholarship program. Evan was chosen out of more than 300 college students who sent in video or written essays about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected them. After submitting a thoughtful, compelling application, Evan will receive $500 to put toward his higher-educational studies at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Fiza Kuzhiyil, who is studying at the University of Texas - Austin, was named an Honorable Mention winner after the Elite Lawyer Scholarship Facebook poll. She will receive $250 to go toward her education.   

Coronavirus’ Impact on Evan

According to Evan, the coronavirus directly affected him in several different ways. First, on a personal level, he lives with his parents who are considered in the high-risk category due to their ages and medical conditions. Although it has been challenging, Evan said his parents have been staying home to stay safe and healthy. 

Evan had two internships canceled due to COVID-19, since many non-essential businesses were temporarily closed or had to lay off part of their workforce. One internship was for marketing for small law firms in the Twin Cities area. Instead, Evan took a job as a server at a sports bar to earn money for him and his family. He is thankful that his place of employment takes all of the safety precautions very seriously by requiring employees to wear masks and gloves, wash hands frequently, as well as enforcing the social distancing guidelines. 

“I am just so thankful to be able-bodied to work and live in a home and have all the necessities and privileges I have. COVID-19 has taught me about how lucky I am to live where I live and be accepted for who I am,” Bannow commented. 

More About Evan

Evan is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in Marketing and Public & Nonprofit Management. As the Social Media intern at Find Your Power in Minneapolis, Evan has gained valuable experience by developing marketing strategies for platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. In addition, he built social media content calendars and campaigns to increase the overall amount of engagement with the organization’s mission: Women’s empowerment and Women’s rights. Evan also learned how design and analytics play a role in fundraising, sponsorship, and community events. 

Prior to his nonprofit work experience, Evan was a Marketing Assistant for the University of Minnesota’s Student Unions and Activities. He developed Marketing Plans and sent communications to encourage participation in Student Union programs. Evan also built an email list semi-annually using Salesforce to reach over 15,000 University of Minnesota parents with relevant information regarding student activities, functions, and interests. In addition, he tracked results and reported analytics to improve future outreach programs for the school. Evan hopes to start a nonprofit company in the future.

Contact Elite Lawyer Today

At Elite Lawyer, we recognize the outstanding accomplishments of attorneys throughout the United States who are leaders in their practice areas. We believe scholarships are a great way of rewarding the hard work and determination of students in many different disciplines. We are proud to offer a scholarship program that also recognizes future leaders of America. During this challenging time in our nation’s history due to COVID-19, we are here to support our members throughout the legal community. We are open and prepared to help you in any way we can. To nominate an Elite Lawyer or learn more about our scholarship program, contact us today at 833-40-ELITE (833-403-5483).