Colleagues:
We have just gone live with a webpage and FAQs regarding the impact of the pandemic on FDAP, the Court of Appeal, and the California Supreme Court. We will keep it updated as best we can.
One important change for panel attorneys. In the past, we have accepted email or phone message from panel attorneys stating they are available for a case. The flow of cases and/or transcripts will likely be slowed due to court closures and court staff working reduced schedules. All panel attorneys will be impacted and there is no need to inform us you are available for or need work. The cases that come through will be offered on the usual rotation basis, with experience, skill, and specialization considered. We will continue to do our best to keep the flow of new cases and transcripts coming to panel attorneys.
In addition, I can confirm that the Judicial Council staff continues to process claims. On Friday, Judicial Council staff approved several FDAP panel claims and they were transmitted to accounting. We are hopeful the other steps toward payment go forward as smoothly.