Given the expanding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak and the evolving and immediate impacts of the virus, we understand the concern and uncertainty you may be experiencing. McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker remains open during normal business hours and committed to serving our clients during this unique time. However, effective March 17, 2020, MDSW will temporarily suspend all in-person meetings in MDSW offices. As set forth below, this decision will permit us to continue to offer sound counsel, guidance and support to our clients and decrease the risk of exposure to other clients and staff.
The State of Maryland and our local governments have taken far-reaching and proactive steps to minimize the impact of COVID-19 across our state, including closures of schools and restaurants, teleworking of non-essential State employees, early adjournment of the General Assembly session, and closure of courts and local government offices to the public. The entire MDSW team is committed to continuing to serve the needs of our clients, while also protecting the health of our clients and firm. We have enacted procedures in line with governmental recommendations in an effort to contain the spread of the virus while minimizing disruption to our clients and any pending or future transactions or matters.
MDSW recently completed a technology upgrade to facilitate remote access and telework by attorneys and staff. This upgrade, unrelated to COVID-19, provides an established, robust and secure system for seamless communications and document access and management. Legal services will be provided without interruption, but we will shift meetings to phone conferences and use other online collaboration opportunities. Real estate closings will be coordinated to occur remotely, with timely and effective electronic recording of documents. We will continue to remain in close contact with local courts, recording staff and governments to manage pending transactions and hearings. We will also continue to communicate closely with you, our trusted clients, as we navigate these uncharted waters together.
As always, our attorneys and staff are available by phone and email. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us to address any questions or concerns.