Covid-19
THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Introduction
The current Covid-19 pandemic is imposing the adoption of some exceptional “social distancing” measures by our firm, including until further notice the partial closing of our offices and the preference for teleworking and teleconferencing. Our services will thus go on being provided with no interruption, although there may occasionally be unavoidable delays, as explained below.
There is therefore no reason for any major concern and we will of course keep our clients up to date regarding any situation that may affect them.
The Situation in Portugal
The fight against the coronavirus pandemic in Portugal is so far having relatively positive results in comparison to other countries. It is still unknown, however, when the current "social distancing" measures may start to be lifted, although many commentators are pointing to mid-May.
Government Offices and Legal Deadlines
Many Government offices and private companies are currently working under severe restrictions and some may even be temporarily shut down. This may include offices of the Tax Authority, SEF (the Foreigners and Borders Service), Social Security, Registries, Consulates and Embassies, Town Halls, Health Centres, banks, notaries, schools, etc.
Consequently the Government is postponing legal deadlines, so that citizens and businesses are not unduly harmed by the situation.
We will keep our clients informed of any measures that may affect their situation.
Our Office
The great majority of our team members is currently working remotely from home, but there will always be someone at the office, so that, for example, client documents may be collected or delivered.
Meetings
During this epidemic situation, our meetings are replaced by videoconferencing, via Google Hangouts, Skype or WhatsApp. If documents, such as agreements, contracts, applications, etc., need to be signed, this will be preferably done remotely and the signed documents sent by post or courier.