At Patterson Belknap we continue to diligently monitor the outbreak of the COVID-19 coronavirus and assess the potential legal and business issues that may arise relating to the virus.  The situation is fluid, and best practices and guidelines are evolving in real time.  We are closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds, and share our latest perspectives on the legal issues relating to COVID-19 below.

New York Employer Tips for Responding to the Coronavirus

The recent outbreak of 2019-nCOV, a flu-like respiratory illness better known as the Coronavirus, is causing employers to ready themselves for a variety of responses to the spread of the virus.  Human Resources professionals are seeking guidance on how to promote a safe and healthy working environment without violating the rights of ill or potentially ill employees.  We have some tips to help strike the right balance.

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Perspective and Planning During Uncertainty

Recent market volatility and the public health implications of the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) have been unsettling.  It can be stabilizing in turbulent times to take a deep breath, focus on long-term planning strategies and goals, and assess whether there might be new opportunities to enhance your estate plan.  We would like to share with you a few developments and possibilities affecting trust and estate planning that may be of interest.

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COVID-19’s Effect on the New York Commercial Division

On March 13, 2020 and March 15, 2020, Judge Lawrence K. Marks, the Chief Administrative Judge of the New York State Unified Court System, issued two memoranda bearing on COVID-19’s effect on the Commercial Division.  This post summarizes the measures being taken by the New York State Unified Court System to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect the well-being of court personnel.

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The FDA Regulatory Landscape for COVID-19 Treatments and Vaccines

As the United States and countries all over the world continue to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic, the race is on for Covid-19 treatments and vaccines.  There is currently no FDA-approved therapy or vaccine for Covid-19.  Given the profound urgency, life sciences companies and other researchers are prioritizing research and development of potential therapies and vaccines.  After a promising Covid-19 biologic treatment or vaccine emerges, FDA has several tools at its disposal to expedite its review and approval as a biologic. (Separately, a small-molecule drug for treatment of Covid-19 would be approved based on an NDA or efficacy supplement to an existing NDA.)

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