Note: Governor Phil Murphy's stay-at-home order issued because of the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly forced the melding of domestic and professional lives, often yielding some surprising results. This is part of an ongoing series. 
The joy of Zoom
Meyer L. Rosenthal, a solo practitioner in Mount Freedom, said the governor’s stay-at-home order hasn’t had much of an impact on his work life—he’s been working from a home office for the last five years.
“I think most solos, even before this, were a little more familiar with doing work from home because you’re on call 24/7,” he said.
“I think everybody is struggling, but I consider myself fortunate because I don’t have to pay a separate lease for an office.”
Rosenthal said his office is equipped with basic technology to conduct his business. He’s discovered the joy of Zoom conferencing through the NJSBA’s webinars, which he said “have really been a godsend.”
He’s also pretty satisfied with talking on the phone to conduct business. “That kind of gets lost in all this. It’s a pretty effective tool,” Rosenthal said.
The stay-at-home order has, however, altered how often he ventures outside, such as driving to get his mail at the post office.
“It’s about a five- or 10-minute drive. I used to go every day, but now I go every other day to minimize the exposure as much as possible. I don’t touch the mailbox, and when I get home I wash my hands, which normally I wouldn’t bother doing. I feel my hands are going to wear out before any other part of my body,” he said.