Readers familiar with only one contemporary topic of discussion are well familiar with COVID-19. As we suffer through the virus, TV coverage of its effects and governmental responses (in place and under consideration) to it is constant. The numbers of coronavirus sufferers and the number of their deaths in particular, projections as to whether the virus will spread or diminish, and other consequences of the virus are discussed like major league sports’ scores, the discussions in part a substitute for sports coverage, as no professional sports are being played while the virus looms over us. In many locations, all “nonessential” businesses have been closed to the public and activities within the business locations prohibited.

The shutdowns in the legal world are many. In many locations, no courts are open, no documents may be filed, and deadlines for filings and the production of materials, such as discovery, have been suspended or substantially pushed back. Many law offices are closed.