Click on one of the questions below to view the answer.

  1. What is a Consent-to-Settle Benefit and why is it so important?
  2. What is Claims-Made Coverage?
  3. Are independent contractors covered under professional liability policies?
  4. Who will defend me if I'm named in a lawsuit?
  5. How much coverage should my firm carry?

Q. What is a Consent-to-Settle Benefit and why is it so important?

A. Under a consent-to-settle benefit, no case is settled without your specific approval. This is an important feature with AttorneyShield because the consent-to-settle benefit has no hammer clause, so you have the greatest level of control over settlement. 

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Q. What is Claims-Made Coverage?

A.  Claims-Made Coverage provides coverage for incidents that occur and are reported in writing on or after the retroactive date of your policy, and before the policy expires, non-renews or is cancelled. Upon cancellation you have the option to purchase an Extended Reporting Endorsement, also known as Tail Coverage, which allows claims to be reported for an additional period of time provided the incident occurred on or after the retroactive date and before the policy expired, non-renewed or was cancelled. Please note Tail Coverage may not be available if your policy is cancelled due to non-payment of premium.

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Q. Are independent contractors covered under professional liability policies?

A. Not always. You should always check the definitions section of your policy to determine who is an insured. Coverage under our program includes independent contractors of the Named Insured or Predecessor Firm identified in the policy.

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Q. Who will defend me if I am named in a lawsuit?

A. It is important that you and your firm are represented by experienced and skilled counsel in the event there is a lawsuit. Our program has a nationwide network of lawyers who specialize in professional liability defense. In addition, our claims professionals will work with you to provide assistance and guidance all the way to your case’s conclusion.

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Q. How much coverage should my firm carry?

A. This is a personal decision that should be based on many factors, including, but not limited to, the size of your firm and the areas that you practice in. You should consult with an experienced professional liability agent/broker who has training and an understanding of your firm’s individualized needs. Our program offers a wide range of limits and deductibles, as well as differing types of limits and deductible options that can be tailored to meet you firm’s needs.

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