Becket Family of Services

Welcome

Benefits Proudly Offered to Becket Family of Services' Employees

Be fully prepared and confident

with LegalEASE

Learn about legal benefits, a smart option for your protection.

Product Administered By: LegalEASE

LegalEASE can help ease the two biggest stresses - finding and paying for an attorney.

Nobody likes to be caught off guard, especially when it comes to legal matters. Life can be complicated. Finding a good attorney doesn’t have to be. With LegalEASE, it’s easy to choose the best attorney, because you get assistance from highly trained and qualified personal specialists who review the details of local attorneys and help you find your best source for legal advice. Being a LegalEASE member saves you time and costly legal fees. But most importantly, it gives you confidence and provides coverage for common legal matters.

With a LegalEASE plan, you get:

An attorney with expertise specific to your legal matter
Access to a national network of attorneys with exceptional experience that are matched to meet your needs
Coverage for in and out-of-network
Concierge help finding a better attorney and navigating common individual or family legal issues
Hours of financial counseling and coaching

We all make some sort of plan in life. But have you ever considered the possibility of a legal problem?

You've graduated from college and are planning for your future - where to get hired, which company will put you on the path to success. Whether to be single or date or settle down, and with the right person. Legal problems can be unexpected and interrupt your plans. LegalEASE provides coverage for your specific legal matter so you won't be caught off guard.

Protect your family’s future, with LegalEASE.

You work hard to make the right choices for your loved ones, especially when it comes to legal and financial matters. Get the peace of mind you want and the protection you need with a LegalEASE Plan. LegalEASE offers valuable benefits to shield your family and savings from unexpected legal issues.

According to the American Bar Association, more than 70 percent of U.S. households will have the need for a lawyer in the next 12 months. And the same study found most consumers feel uncertain about how to tell a good lawyer from a bad one. With LegalEASE you have access to a national network of credentialed attorneys and the help you need to find the best attorney for your legal matter with its concierge service.

Coverage

The Value of a LegalEASE Plan.

Being a LegalEASE member saves you time and costly legal fees. But most importantly, it gives you confidence and provides coverage for:

Home and Residential
Financial and Money Matters
Consumer
Auto and Driving
Family and Personal
Civil Lawsuits
Estate Planning and Wills

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Benefits are designed to meet the typical needs of an employee and their family. There are no deductibles to worry about for covered services. Benefits cover the attorney’s time. Other costs such as filing fees or court costs are not covered. Listed below are the types of matters that are covered by the LegalEASE Plan. This plan offers the convenience of in-network and out-of-network benefits. Many of the below areas are fully covered in-network.

Plan Cost

The LegalEASE Plan is $17.49 monthly, via payroll deduction.

Who's Covered?

The Member’s spouse or domestic partner and Member’s unmarried dependent children, including stepchildren, legally adopted children, children placed in the home for adoption and foster children, up to age 19, and from age 19 up to 26 years if they are enrolled in an accredited school or college as full-time student(s) and are primarily dependent upon the Member for support.

Schedule of Benefits
Advice and Consultation	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
LegalEASE Helpline	Covered	Not Applicable
Initial Law Office Consultation (One hour per calendar quarter)	Covered	Not Applicable
Review of Simple Documents (Up to 6 Pages)	Covered	Not Applicable
Miscellaneous Law Office Services	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Discounted Legal Services for any non-excluded legal matter	25% discount on Plan Attorney's Hourly Rate	Not Applicable
Consumer Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Document Preparation Simple Deed Promissory Note Consumer Dispute Correspondence Installment Sales Agreement Simple Affidavit General Power of Attorney Lease Agreement - Tenant only Time Share Agreement	Covered	$65 $55 $55 $55 $55 $55 $65 $55
Consumer Dispute	Covered	$595
Small Claims Court Representation	Covered Up To 2 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$120
Mail Order or Internet Purchase Dispute	Covered Up To 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$300
Bank Fee Dispute	Covered Up To 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$300
First-time Vehicle Buyer	Covered Up To 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$300
Vehicle Repair and Lemon Law Litigation	Covered Up To 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$300
Cell Phone Contract Dispute Contract Review Up to 6 Pages Representation	Covered Covered Up To 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$300 $300
Warranty Dispute Warranty Review Up to 6 Pages Representation	Covered Covered Up To 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$300 $300
Health Care Coverage Dispute and Records Office Consultation Up to 5 Hours Review of Health Care Policy Review/Preparation of Document up to 6 Pages	Covered Covered Up To 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount Covered Up to 5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$300 $300 $300
Identity Theft Defense	Covered	$850
Estate Planning	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Simple Will or Codicil for: Member Spouse Covered Family Member	Covered	$80
Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive	Covered	$55
Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney	Covered	$55
Revocable or Irrevocable Living Trust Document	Covered	$310
Probate of Small Estate	Covered Up To 2 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$120
Home and Residential Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Purchase of Primary Residence	Covered	$490
Sale of Primary Residence	Covered	$365
Refinancing of Primary Residence	Covered	$385
Vacation or Investment Home Purchase/Sale/Refinancing	Covered	$425
Tenant Dispute	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Tenant Security Deposit Dispute	Covered	$850
Landlord Dispute with Tenant Pre-litigation activities Trial Representation	Covered Up To 10 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$595
Security Deposit Dispute with Tenant	Covered Up To 10 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$595
Construction Defect Dispute	Covered	$425
Neighbor Dispute	Covered	$765
Noise Reduction Dispute	Covered	$765
Financial Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Debt Collection Defense Pre-litigation Defense Activities	Covered	$425
Debt Collection Defense Trial Defense	Covered	$850
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7 or 13)	Covered	$935
Foreclosure	Covered	$680
Tax Audits	Covered	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Student Loan Refinancing/Collection Defense	Covered Up To 7 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$420
Family Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Uncontested Separation or Civil Annulment	Covered Up To 10 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$595
Consent/Default Divorce	Covered Up To 10 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$595
Uncontested Divorce	Covered Up To 10 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$595
Contested Divorce (As Defined)	Covered Up To 28.5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Post-Divorce Proceedings (As Defined)	Covered Up To 28.5 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Prenuptial Agreement	Covered	$680
Name Change	Covered	$255
Guardianship/Conservatorship	Uncontested: Covered Contested: Covered	$365 $765
Governmental Agency Adoption	Uncontested: Covered Contested: Covered	$365 $765
Stepparent Adoption	Uncontested: Covered Contested: Covered	$365 $765
Juvenile Court Proceeding	Covered	$470
Civil	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Civil Litigation Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Incompetency Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Discounted Contingency Fees	10% Discount on State Maximum, or a Maximum of 29% Pre-trial, 36% at Trial, or 40% in an Appeal	Not Applicable
Mediation	10% Discount on Mediator's Hourly Rates	Not Applicable
Criminal Defense	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Traffic Ticket	Covered	$215
Serious Traffic Matters (Resulting In Suspension or Revocation of License)	Covered	$425
Administrative Proceeding (Regarding Suspension or Revocation of License)	Covered	$255
Misdemeanor Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
DUI/DWI Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Additional Benefits	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Financial Advisor	Included	Not Applicable
Identity Theft Assistance	Included	Not Applicable

Limitations may apply.

* Managed Case Rules require the following:

1. Member and/or Family Member must secure a confirmation letter from the Member Service Center prior to proceeding with an attorney.

2. The attorney must provide a written estimate of fees reflecting his or her best judgment as to the likely conduct of the case.

3. We will set a maximum attorney fee that takes into account the reasonable level of reimbursement of the proceeding and the proposed litigation strategy. Fees as a result of services in excess of the maximum attorney fee are the responsibility of the Member and/or Family Member.

Exclusions

This Policy excludes benefits for the following:

Appellate court proceedings, class actions, interventions, derivative action and amicus curiae filings.

The preparation and filing of individual, partnership or estate tax returns, appellate or administrative proceedings related to tax returns, litigation before the U.S. Tax Court, U.S. Court of Claims or any other federal, state or other courts with respect to tax matters.

Matters relating to securities, trademark or patent matters; business or commercial interests, including, but not limited to, professional, partnership and/or corporate matters; matters involving the law or laws of jurisdictions other than the United States and its territories except as specifically described under Covered Services; any matters involving a government (domestic or foreign) entity or agency except as specifically described under Covered Services; farm related issues; matters involving commercial or rental property transactions, including the purchase, sale or lease of investment or income-producing property.

Legal services that are fully paid for or provided at no cost by any governmental agency, organization or insurance company.

Matters that the attorney deems frivolous, spurious, harassing, or unethical (collectively referred to as “frivolous”) or otherwise prohibited by the Model Rules of Professional Conduct of the state in which the attorney is licensed.

Costs associated with covered legal services, including but not limited to, all fines, court costs, penalties, sanctions, expert witness fees, bonds, bail bonds, attorney fees, exhibits, deposition costs, filing fees, transcripts, postage, telephone, photocopying, recording fees, messengers, judgments, jury fees, court reporter fees, investigative costs and all other incidental and out-of-pocket legal and litigation costs.

Any services on behalf of a Covered Family Member against the interests of the Member.

Any employment-related matter. This includes, but is not limited to, any dispute involving the Member’s employer or its affiliates, their officers or directors, the Member’s employee benefit plans, credit unions, programs or arrangements sponsored by an employer, or cases involving workers’ compensation, unemployment compensation, sex harassment, age discrimination, etc.

Any dispute or proceeding against the following persons or entities, their officers, directors, employees, or agents: any person or entity involved in the sale, marketing, administration or other processes related to this Policy; Legal Plan Administrator or its subsidiaries; Claims Administrator or its subsidiaries; Policyholder; Member’s employer; Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and it’s parents, subsidiaries or any affiliated or successor company, plan underwriter or reinsurer; Plan Sponsor; or any Participating and/or Non-Participating Attorney, if the dispute or proceeding pertains to services provided under the Policy.

The Policy will not provide benefits in connection with pre-existing matters, which includes any matter where the Member and/or Covered Family Member is on notice as to a pending legal dispute or has previously contacted an attorney, except when prior coverage under another Legal Plan provided by the Policyholder can be demonstrated.

Where there are specific hours or dollar amounts provide in this Policy, or where a maximum is set under the Managed Case Rules, the Member will be responsible for all attorney fees incurred over the maximum. Additional exclusions related to each benefit are included in the Covered Services.

Definitions

DEFINITIONS

“CONTESTED DIVORCE” - refers to a divorce proceeding that requires more than 5 hours of attorney time, involves disputed issues and both parties are represented by an attorney.

“CONTRACT” - means the Legal Expense Service Contract and the Certificate of Coverage.

“CONTRACTHOLDER” - means the organization named in the declarations page.

“COVERED FAMILY MEMBER” – means the Member’s Covered Spouse and the Member’s unmarried dependent children, including stepchildren, legally adopted children, children placed in the home for adoption and foster children, up to age 19, and from age 19 up to 26 years if they are enrolled in an accredited school or college as full-time student(s), and are primarily dependent upon the Member for support.

“COVERED SPOUSE” - means the Member’s lawful spouse at the time the coverage is in effect.

“DURABLE FINANCIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY” –a legal document that allows an individual to appoint another person to manage the individual’s finances in the event that he/she is unable to do so him/her self.

“EFFECTIVE DATE” - means the date the Member’s coverage hereunder begins.

“HEALTH CARE COVERAGE” – means coverage of a Member under any health care or health insurance policy or any policy that covers as its primary function any aspect of an individual’s health.

“HEALTH CARE OR MEDICAL POWER OF ATTORNEY” – A legal document that allows an individual to appoint another person to make medical decisions in the event the individual is unable to do so him/her self.

“INTERNET PURCHASE” - A purchase of goods or services whose cost is over $200.00 at the time of purchase by a Member from a website on the Surface Web, as defined.

“LEGAL PLAN ADMINISTRATOR” – LegalEASE, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or agents, including third party organizations and their affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or agents, hired by LegalEASE to perform services under the Contract.

“LIVING WILL/ HEALTH CARE OR ADVANCE DIRECTIVE” – A legal document that outlines an individual’s preferences for medical treatment and which takes effect only when the individual becomes incapacitated and can no longer express his or her wishes.

“MEMBER” - refers to the individual who (a) is associated with the Contractholder, (b) has either made a payment or had payment made on his or her behalf, and (c) meets the eligibility requirements for Covered Services as defined by the Contractholder.

“MEMBER SERVICE CENTER” - means the service location established to assist Members/Covered Family Members in making full use of the coverage.

“NEIGHBOR” – A person whose residence is located on a property that directly abuts the property on which a Member’s residence is located.

“NON-PARTICIPATING ATTORNEY” - means an attorney not contracted by the Legal Plan Administrator who is selected and paid by the Member to provide covered legal services up to the maximum amount shown under the Non-Participating Attorney column of the Schedule of Benefits.

“PAID IN FULL” - means complete payment in full to a Participating Attorney for covered legal services.

“PARTICIPATING ATTORNEY” - means an attorney contracted by the Legal Plan Administrator to provide covered legal services at the amount shown under the Participating Attorney column of the Schedule of Benefits.

“SURFACE WEB” – means the portion of the World Wide Web that is readily available to the general public and searchable via standard web search engines.

“WE”, “US”, “OUR” AND “COMPANY” - means Virginia Surety Company, Inc.

COVERED SERVICES

Advice and Consultation

LegalEASE Helpline: Advice and consultation by telephone with a Participating Attorney. Services are available during normal business hours. Calls can relate to any personal legal matter, civil or criminal, except those specifically excluded.

Initial Law Office Consultation: Up to the maximum as shown in the Schedule of Benefits for office consultations with a Participating Attorney on any personal legal problem, civil or criminal, except those specifically excluded.

Review of Simple Documents: The Participating Attorney will verbally explain the meaning or impact of any form or document, or make suggestions for changes to a form or document being drafted of up to the maximum number of pages as shown in the Schedule of Benefits. This benefit does not include a written analysis of any form or document.

Miscellaneous Law Office Services

Legal Services for any Non-Excluded Legal Matter: This benefit will cover any legal services needed by the Member or Covered Family Member for review or preparation of documents, or any other service required on any legal matters not listed as a covered benefit or exclusion under this Contract.

Consumer Matters

Document Preparation: Preparation of any of the following documents: simple deed (excluding those reviewed or prepared under the real estate service), promissory note, consumer dispute correspondence, installment sales agreement, general power of attorney, lease agreement (tenant only), time share agreement, and simple affidavit.

This service is limited to one use per year per document, except general power of attorney, which is limited to one use per year per Covered Family Member.

Consumer Dispute: Consultation or representation in a dispute relating to consumer goods and services (not involving real estate construction, landlord/tenant disputes or renovation).

This service is limited to one use per year.

Small Claims Court Representation: Consultation and/or representation for a consumer dispute filed in small claims court. (Attorney may not be permitted to attend court hearings in some jurisdictions).

This service is limited to one use per year.

Mail Order or Internet Purchase Dispute: The services of an attorney to review the nature of any mail order or Internet Purchase dispute involving the purchaser prior to the commencement of litigation. This service includes the review or preparation of dispute letters, any purchase documents and/or consultation with the attorney. If litigation is commenced in this matter, the service will cover up to the maximum shown on the Schedule of Services.

This service is limited to one purchase per year.

Bank Fee Dispute: The services of an attorney to review the nature of any (non-business related) bank fee dispute between the Member and their bank prior to the commencement of litigation. This service includes the review or preparation of dispute letters, any purchase documents and/or consultation with the attorney. If litigation is commenced in this matter, the service will cover up to the maximum shown on the Schedule of Services.

This service is limited to one dispute per year.

First-time Vehicle Buyer: The services of an attorney for the purchase of a Member’s and/or Covered Family Member’s first vehicle. This service includes the review or preparation of purchase and finance documents and/or consultation by the attorney at or before closing.

This service is limited to one vehicle purchase per year and must be the first vehicle purchase of either the Member or Covered Family Member.

Vehicle Repair and Lemon Law Litigation: Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member who is entitled under the applicable state “lemon” law to bring a civil lawsuit (non-business related), up to and including the trial thereof related to a defective car as defined in the applicable state law. This service does not include: (1) any lawsuit related to finances or defects that do not specifically fall under the definitions permitted in the applicable state lemon law; (2) lawsuits normally handled on a contingent fee basis; (3) any collection or related defense or action; or (4) matters for which the Member has or is required by law to have insurance.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Cell Phone Contract Dispute: Review of the cell phone contract where the Participating Attorney will verbally explain the meaning or impact of any form or document, or make suggestions for changes to a form or document being drafted of up to maximum number of pages shown on the Schedule of Services. This service does not include a written analysis of any form or document.

In the event of a dispute over the terms of the agreement between the cell phone company and the Member or any Covered Family Member, this service provides representation in a dispute relating to the cell phone contract if the Member/Covered Family Member is sued or named in a small claims court action. This service covers counseling on prosecuting a small claims court action; helping the Member/Covered Family Member prepare documents; advising on evidence, documentation and witnesses; and preparing the Member/Covered Family Member for trial. The service does not include the Participating Attorney’s attendance or representation at a small claims trial, collection activities after a judgment or any services relating to post-judgment actions.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Warranty Dispute: Review of the warranty policy or service contract where the Participating Attorney will verbally explain the meaning or impact of any form or document, or make suggestions for changes to a form or document being drafted up to the maximum number of pages shown on the Schedule of Services. This service does not include a written analysis of any form or document.

In the event of a dispute over the terms of the agreement between the warranty company and the Member or Covered Family Member, this service provides representation in a dispute relating to the warranty or service contract if the Member or Covered Family Member is sued or named in a small claims court action. This service covers counseling on prosecuting a small claims court action; helping the Member/Covered Family Member prepare documents; advising on evidence, documentation and witnesses; and preparing the Member/Covered Family Member for trial. The service does not include the Participating Attorney’s attendance or representation at a small claims trial, collection activities after a judgment or any services relating to post-judgment actions.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Healthcare Coverage Disputes and Records: Up to the maximum as shown in the Schedule of Services for office consultations with a Participating Attorney on any Healthcare Coverage dispute, civil or criminal, even where a Member has Healthcare Coverage under another policy outside this plan. For a definition of Healthcare Coverage, please see definitions in this Legal Services Contract.

This service is designed to help Members and/or Covered Family Members understand new healthcare law provisions and coverages based on the federal and/or state version of this law, AAPACA, and to prepare a bona fide defense to any denials in coverage valued at more than $1,000.00 in covered medical services under the policy in dispute. This service also includes the review of simple healthcare policy coverage documents and the Participating Attorney will verbally explain the meaning or impact of any policy or related document, or make suggestions for dispute letters or documents being drafted of up to the maximum number of pages as shown in the Schedule of Services. This service does include a written analysis of any form or document but does include the preparation of any of the following documents up to the maximum number of pages shown on the Schedule of Services: policyholder dispute correspondence, and simple affidavit. Partial documents cannot be reviewed or prepared and if the document other than the actual Healthcare Coverage policy is more than the maximum number of pages shown in the Schedule of Services the service does not apply.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Identity Theft Defense: Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member regarding potential creditor actions resulting from identity theft, and attorney services as needed to contact creditors, credit bureaus and financial institutions. It also provides defense services for specific creditor actions over disputed accounts.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Estate Planning

Will or Codicil Preparation: Preparation of one simple will or codicil (an amendment to an existing will) for the Member and/or Covered Family Member, including the preparation of a simple testamentary support trust for the dependent children:

Simple Will Preparation: Participating Attorney shall prepare a simple will or codicil for Member and/or Covered Family Member and discuss the legal requirements for signing the will.

This service is limited to one use per year per Member/Covered Family Member.

Living Will and/or Health Care Power of Attorney: Preparation of living will and/or health care power of attorney for Member and/or Covered Family Member as authorized by state law. A living will expresses an individual’s wishes as to the use or withdrawal of life support systems. A health care power of attorney appoints another to make medical decisions if the individual is unable to do so him/herself.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Living Trust Document: Preparation of living trust documents. This service does not include services related to transactions to fund the trust or transfer assets into it. This service does not include tax planning or tax advice related to the trust or the Member’s situation before and after the trust is prepared.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Probate of Small Estate: The service of an attorney for the probate of a small estate (an estate that is not subject to current state or federal estate taxation) up to the maximum as shown in Schedule of Services.

Residential Matters

Real Estate Sale, Purchase or Refinancing of Primary Residence: The services of an attorney for the purchase, sale, or refinancing of a Member’s primary residence (where Member has resided or intends to reside for twenty-seven (27) weeks or more per year). This service includes the review or preparation of closing documents and/or attendance by the Member’s attorney at closing in situations when it is customary to do so. This service does not include services performed by or for a title company, or for an attorney acting on behalf of a lending institution. Home equity loans and the sale or purchase of unimproved or rental properties are not included.

This service is limited to one closing per year.

Vacation or Investment Home Purchase, Sale or Refinancing: The services of an attorney for the purchase, sale, or refinancing of a Member’s vacation or investment residence (where Member has not resided or does not intend to reside for twenty-seven (27) weeks or more per year). This service includes the review or preparation of closing documents and/or attendance by the attorney at closing in situations when it is customary to do so. This service does not include services performed by or for a title company, or for an attorney acting on behalf of a lending institution. Home equity loans and the sale or purchase of unimproved properties are not included.

This service is limited to one closing per year.

Tenant Dispute: Representation of the Member and/or Covered Family Member as a tenant in a dispute with his/her landlord.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Tenant Security Deposit Dispute: The services of an attorney to assist the Member as a tenant in recovering a security deposit from the Member’s residential landlord for the Member’s primary residence; reviewing the lease and other relevant documents; and preparing a demand letter to the landlord for the return of the deposit. This service covers preparation for prosecuting a small claims action; helping prepare documents; advising on evidence, documentation and witness; and preparing the Member for the small claims trial. The service does not include the Participating Attorney’s attendance or representation at the small claims trial, collection activities after a judgment or any services relating to post-judgment actions.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Landlord Dispute with Tenant: This service covers the Member where he/she is a landlord, but where the regular business or livelihood of the Member is that other than a landlord, for matters involving evictions, leases, or disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes advice and representation if a lawsuit is filed up to the maximum shown on the Schedule of Services. It does not include representation for a tenant in disputes with other tenants. If a lawsuit must be brought by the landlord, representation will be provided up to the maximum shown in the Schedule of Services and the Member will be responsible for paying all fees for any additional services required.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Security Deposit Dispute with Tenant: This service covers the Member where he/she is a landlord, but where the regular business or livelihood of the Member is that other than a landlord, in defending against the recovery of a security deposit from the Member’s residential tenant for any residence owned and leased by the Member; reviewing the lease and other relevant documents; and preparing a letter to the tenant specifying what part of the deposit, if any, will not be returned. It also covers assisting the Member in defending a small claims action; helping prepare documents; advising on evidence, documentation and witness; and preparing the Member for the small claims trial. The service does not include the Participating Attorney’s attendance or representation at the small claims trial, collection activities after a judgment or any services relating to post-judgment actions.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Construction Defect Dispute: The services of an attorney in a dispute relating to the Member’s new home purchased within the past five (5) years up to the maximum shown in the Schedule of Services. This service includes preparation and assistance for a dispute related to any defect or damage caused by the construction or related to the construction.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Neighbor Dispute: The services of an attorney in a dispute relating to a Member’s neighbor up to the maximum shown in the Schedule of Services. Advice and/or preparation and assistance for a dispute filed in court is also covered, although representation in small claims court is not covered.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Noise Reduction Dispute: The services of an attorney in a dispute relating to a Member’s enjoyment of his/her home, where any activity related to noise affecting the Member’s enjoyment of their home is prohibited by federal, state or local law, up to the maximum shown in the Schedule of Services. Advice and/or preparation and assistance for a dispute filed in court is also covered, although representation in small claims court is not covered.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Financial Matters

Debt Collection Defense: The defense of any dispute involving personal (non-business related) debt. This service includes correspondence, negotiating with creditors to arrange a repayment schedule, assistance in limiting harassment by bill collectors, and negotiating settlement after a complaint is filed. This service does not include defense against execution of a court-ordered judgment or efforts to vacate or set aside a judgment.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Bankruptcy: Representation on behalf of the Member and/or Covered Family Member for personal (non-business related) bankruptcy protection under Chapter 7 or 13 of the Internal Revenue Code.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Foreclosure: Defense of the Member in an action to foreclose on the Member’s primary residence (where Member has resided or intends to reside twenty-seven (27) weeks or more per year.)

This service is limited to one use per year.

Tax Audit: Includes the services of an attorney (but not accounting services) during a personal (non-business related) tax audit process required by federal and state tax authorities and negotiations relating to it. This service does not include a defense against criminal charges nor the defense of civil tax litigation in any tax court.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Student Loan Refinancing/Collection Defense: The services of an attorney up to the maximum shown in the Schedule of Services for a student loan refinancing or collection dispute proceeding. This service covers the Member and/or Covered Family Member when there is an issue regarding a student loan in the name of the Member and/or Covered Family Member. This service includes negotiation with creditors for a repayment schedule and to limit creditor harassment, and representation in defense of any action for personal debt collection, tax agency debt collection, foreclosure, repossession or garnishment, all related to one or more school loans in the name of the Member and/or Covered Family Member up to and including trial if necessary.

It does not include vacating a judgment; counter, cross or third party claims; bankruptcy, any action arising out of family law matters including support and post decree issues; or any matter where the creditor is affiliated with the sponsor or employer.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Family Matters

Separation, Divorce, Civil Annulment: Legal representation of the Member only for up to the maximum shown on the Schedule of Services in an uncontested separation, divorce, civil annulment, consent or default divorce. An uncontested separation, divorce or civil annulment does not involve significant disputed issues and the parties resolve any issues prior to any court supervised proceeding. A consent or default divorce does not involve any disputed issues and the opposing party is not represented by counsel. The service for uncontested matters does not provide any coverage of an attorney’s fee for: (1) services in excess of the maximum shown on the Schedule of Services; the Member must pay the attorney’s fee for services in excess of the maximum; or,(2) contested matters in which case the Member must pay the attorney’s fee for services, unless this Legal Services Contract provides coverage of contested matters and the service shall be in accordance with the Schedule of Services. A contested separation, divorce or civil annulment requires more than five hours of attorney time, involves disputed issues and both parties are represented by an attorney.

This service is limited to one use per year (representation seeking or defending against interim or subsequent-to-decree order shall constitute a separate use) and applies to the Member and Covered Family Members only for actions not involving the Member as an opposing party.

Prenuptial Agreement: This service covers the preparation of an agreement by a Member and his or her fiancé/partner prior to their marriage or legal union (where allowed by law), outlining how property is to be divided in the event of separation, divorce or death of a spouse. Representation is provided only to the Member. The fiancé/partner must have separate counsel or must waive representation.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Name Change: Services required to accomplish a legal name change for a Member and/or Covered Family Member.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Guardianship/Conservatorship: Services required to establish a Member and/or Covered Family Member as the guardian(s) or conservator(s) of another. This service does not include fees for a court –appointed attorney for the child/conservatee.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Government Agency/Stepparent Adoption: Legal representation for a Member and/or Covered Family Member of up to the maximum shown in the Schedule of Services in a governmental agency or stepparent adoption. An uncontested adoption does not involve significant disputed issues. This service does not include: (1) contested termination of parental rights; (2) fees for a court-appointed attorney for the child; or (3) adoptions(s) made through any agency other than a governmental agency. A contested adoption requires more than five hours of attorney time and involves disputed issues.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Juvenile Court Matters: Services related to the representation of the dependent child of a Member and/or Covered Family Member in any juvenile court proceeding, provided the child’s interest is not in conflict with the Member’s and/or Covered Family Member’s interest. This service does not cover any matter that falls outside the jurisdiction of juvenile court or any matter that may be considered a felony.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Civil Litigation Defense

Civil Litigation Defense: Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member who is a named defendant in a civil lawsuit (non-business related), up to and including the trial thereof. This service does not include: (1) any debt collection or family law matters; (2) lawsuits normally handled on a contingent fee basis; or (3) matters for which the Member/Covered Family Member has or is required by law to have insurance.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Incompetency Defense: Services related to the representation of a Member in the defense of any incompetency action, including court hearings when there is a proceeding to find the Member incompetent.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Criminal Defense

Traffic Tickets: Services related to the representation of the Member and/or Covered Family Member in defense of any traffic ticket except driving under influence or vehicular homicide, including court hearings, negotiation with the prosecutor, trial, and counseling and preparing Member for self-representation at any hearings if chosen.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Serious Traffic Matters: Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member who is charged by governing authorities with moving traffic violation(s) and conviction could result in suspension or revocation of Member’s and/or Covered Family Member’s drivers’ license.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Administrative Proceeding: Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member in an administrative proceeding relating to the suspension or revocation of driving privileges.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Misdemeanor Defense: Defense of a Member and/or Covered Family Member in connection with criminal misdemeanor charges (not associated with any felony charge).

This service is limited to one use per year.

Additional Benefits

Financial Advisor: Coverage includes a financial counseling Service for Member, and Covered Family Members.

Financial Helpline: Consultation with legal or financial professionals by toll-free telephone during normal business hours. Calls can relate to investment strategies, debt matters, budgeting or any personal financial planning question.

Identity Theft Prevention/Recovery Assistance: Coverage includes a basic identity Theft HelpLine Service as well as a comprehensive Online Identity Theft Prevention and Assistance Service for Member, and Covered Family Members.

Advice and Consultation:

Telephone consultations (10 per year) with a Trained Identity Theft Recovery Specialist.

Additional Benefits:

a) Personal Recovery Kit - designed to walk a victim of identity theft step-by-step through the process of recovery (designed to be utilized in conjunction with the consultations with the Recovery Specialist).

b) Recovery Letter preparation by plan attorney - a plan attorney will draft the simple affidavits to submit to specific agencies and organizations needed to establish the theft of your identity and prevent futher loss of your identity and credit rating.

c) Review of necessary recovery legal documents (up to 6 pages each).

OBTAINING SERVICES

Reimbursement for Services

Members must call the Member Service Center to confirm eligibility and coverage prior to consulting with any attorney. The Member Service Center will assign a Participating Attorney to provide services relative to the matter. Failure to notify the Member Service Center within thirty (30) days following consultation with an attorney may result in a denial of coverage.
To obtain services under the Managed Case Rules:
- Members and/or Covered Family Member must secure a confirmation letter from the Member Service Center prior to proceeding with an attorney.
- The attorney must provide a written estimate of fees reflecting his or her best judgment as to the likely conduct of the case.
- We will set a maximum attorney fee that takes into account the reasonable level of reimbursement for the proceeding and the proposed litigation strategy. Fees as a result of services in excess of the maximum attorney fee are the responsibility of the Member and/or Covered Family Member.
Members actively receiving services under this Legal Services Contract must remain enrolled and continue to pay fees hereunder. All services will be subject to subrogation and coordination of benefit rules.
Upon completion of a Covered Service, the Member and/or Covered Family Member will be required by the Participating Attorney to sign a confirmation of completion. Failure to sign the confirmation may result in denial of the reimbursement and the Member/ Covered Family Member will be responsible for all legal fees.
If the Member and/or Covered Family Member pays for pre-authorized services provided by a Non-Participating Attorney, the Member must submit a reimbursement form (provided by Member Service Center) accompanied by an original itemized bill, proof of payment and supporting documentation sufficient to demonstrate the work completed in the matter within sixty (60) days after incurring the legal fees. Services provided to the Member and/or Covered Family Member for Covered Services are subject to the maximum as shown in the Schedule of Services.

Disputes Between Member and Covered Family Member

In the event that the Member and one of the Covered Family Members are involved as adversaries in a dispute that is a Covered Service, the Legal Services Contract will cover the Member only.

If two or more Covered Family Members are involved in a dispute that is otherwise covered under the Legal Services Contract, the Legal Services Contract will provide no coverage.

If two Members are involved as adversaries in a dispute that is a Covered Service, the Legal Services Contract will provide separate coverage for each Member.

EXCLUSIONS

This Legal Services Contract excludes services for the following:

Appellate court proceedings, class actions, interventions, derivative action and amicus curiae filings.

Matters relating to securities, trademark or patent matters; business or commercial interests, including, but not limited to, professional, partnership and/or corporate matters; matters involving the law or laws of jurisdictions other than the United States and its territories and Canada; any matters involving a government (domestic or foreign) entity or agency except as specifically described under Covered Services; farm related issues; matters involving commercial or rental property transactions, including the purchase, sale or lease of investment or income-producing property. A two-family house, whether or not used by the Member as his or her primary residence, is deemed an investment or income-producing property.

Legal services that are fully paid for or provided at no cost by any governmental agency, organization or insurance company.

Any services on behalf of a Covered Family Member against the interests of the Member.

Any dispute or proceeding against the following persons or entities, their officers, directors, employees, or agents: any person or entity involved in the sale, marketing, administration or other processes related to this Legal Services Contract; Legal Plan Administrator or its subsidiaries; Reimbursement Administrator or its subsidiaries; Contractholder; Member’s employer; Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company it’s parents, subsidiaries or any affiliated or successor company, plan underwriter or reinsurer; Plan Sponsor; or any Participating and/or Non-Participating Attorney, if the dispute or proceeding pertains to services provided under the Legal Services Contract.

The Legal Services Contract will not provide services in connection with pre-existing matters, which includes any matter where the Member and/or Covered Family Member is on notice as to a pending legal dispute or has previously contacted an attorney.

Where there are specific hours or dollar amounts provide in this Legal Services Contract, or where a maximum is set under the Managed Case Rules, the Member will be responsible for all attorney fees incurred over the maximum. Additional exclusions related to each service are included in the Covered Services.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Attorney-Client Relationship

All attorneys are subject to the authority of the State Supreme Court and the State Bar of the state where they are licensed to practice. The Member’s relationship with an attorney is privileged and strictly confidential. We will not interfere in the attorney-client relationship, nor in the attorney’s independent exercise of his or her professional judgment. Attorneys are not certified specialists.

The Member shall authorize the Participating Attorney to provide the Legal Plan Administrator with information and supporting documentation on the number and type of services provided to the Member.

By using legal services that are provided under the Legal Services Contract, the Members agree that neither We, nor the Contractholder, nor any other person involved in the marketing or administration of the Legal Services Contract, shall have any liability for the acts, errors or omissions of an attorney providing services, in whole or in part, under the Legal Services Contract.

Non-Participating Attorney Services

If the Member already has an attorney, the Member may prefer to use her/him as a Non-Participating Attorney. To do so, the Member must first contact the Member Service Center and notify the representative of his/her intention to use a Non-Participating Attorney for a Covered Service. The Member Service Center will send the Member a form to request reimbursement from the Legal Services Contract. The Member’s reimbursement will be based on the reimbursement schedule as shown in the Schedule of Services. If a Member already has an attorney at the time he/she becomes a Member, the Legal Plan Administrator can offer to negotiate with the attorney on behalf of the Member, but will not guarantee the Plan Discounted Rate will be accepted by the attorney or offered by the Legal Plan Administrator.

Legal Terminology

The Member or Covered Family Member may call the Member Service Center to obtain a definition or explanation of any term used herein.

Coverage Period

The coverage period is automatically renewable upon receipt of appropriate payment unless terminated in accordance with the terms hereof.

Coverage Territory

The coverage territory includes the United States and United States territories.

Refund Provision

In the event that the payment mode is other than monthly and the Legal Services Contract is terminated or the Member elects to terminate the coverage, a pro-rata refund will be made in accordance with the laws of the Contractholder’s state.

Termination and Cancellation of Coverage

Coverage provided to the Member shall terminate upon the first of the following to occur:

Cancellation or termination of this Legal Services Contract;
If applicable, the Member fails to re-enroll;
The Member is no longer associated with Contractholder; or
The Member fails to remit payment when due, subject to the statutory grace period.

Coverage provided to a Covered Family Member of a Member shall terminate upon the first of the following to occur:

The Member’s coverage is cancelled or terminated; or
The family member ceases to qualify as a Covered Family Member as defined.

When coverage for a Member and/or Covered Family Member terminates and a matter is unresolved when coverage terminated, then any further legal work between said Member and/or Covered Family Member and the Participating Attorney shall be outside the scope and coverage of the Legal Services Contract. The Participating Attorney shall not be obligated to provide any services under the Legal Services Contract and any further legal services shall be based upon an independent and separate fee agreement entered into, if at all, between the former Member and/or Covered Family Member and the attorney. If such an agreement is not entered into, then the Participating Attorney may withdraw from any further representation in accordance with applicable law and State Bar standards.

After this Legal Services Contract has been in effect for sixty (60) days or more, it may be cancelled for one of the following reasons:

Nonpayment by Contractholder for covered Members;
Legal Services Contract is obtained through material misrepresentation;
Contractholder violated the material terms and condition of the Legal Services Contract;
The risk originally accepted has measurably increased;
Continuation of the Legal Services Contract would be in violation of the law;

The Company shall provide written notice of cancellation to the Contractholder at least sixty (60) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation. If the Company cancels for non-payment, the Company shall provide written notice of cancellation to the Contractholder at least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation. All notices shall state the reason for cancellation. The Contractholder is responsible for notifying the Members of cancellation.

Portability

The Member may continue coverage under this Legal Services Contract by electing the option of portability when the Member no longer qualifies as an employee of the Contractholder or as a member of the group to which this Legal Services Contract is issued. The Member must apply for portability within thirty-one (31) days of this disqualifying event and make arrangements for payment. Portabilty coverage will take effect, subject to receipt of the initial payment, as of the date the Member’s coverage under this group Legal Services Contract terminates. Credit will be given for any applicable Waiting Period based on the number of months coverage was in force for the Member under this Legal Services Contract.

Network

About the Network of Attorneys

When going in for surgery, you don’t want a surgeon that has a poor track record or only a couple years experience. We feel that a legal need is just as important.

Help Focus Infrastructure

When it comes to finding an attorney, an employee can waste days looking for the right one, even with a legal plan. Our process has a Help Focus Infrastructure. We focus on our relationships with our Providers to help us help your employees, faster. Our Attorney Match Technology and dialogue with attorneys and members ensures the right help the first time. Matching an employee to the right help expedites solutions while saving time and stress.

Standards and Qualifications

The credentialing standards that we utilize to vet our providers is the most stringent in the country. We focus on years of experience, as well as insurance and discipline, as well as penalty of perjury submissions with extensive back ground checks.

Under the Provider Network, your employees will receive legal help from professionals with many of these service characteristics:

Experience in the Legal Matter Needed
Quality Time Spent in Consultations
Years of Legal Training and Experience
Up-to-date Legal Training Each Year
Lawyers Who are Service-Oriented
Lawyers Who Have a Solid Local Reputation in their Communities
Exceptional Backgrounds
Years of Courtroom and Trial Experience

Provider Standards of Care

The Network Provider shall strive to provide the highest quality of legal representation and service to Plan Members.

Plan Providers agree to the following:

To comply at all times with the Rules of Civil Procedure and Criminal Procedure and the Rules of Professional Conduct applicable to the jurisdiction.
To return member's calls promptly, within one business day, and communicate with members such that a member and the member's family do not voice substantiated concerns over promptness or frequency of your or your firm's communication.
To not enter continuances, adjournments, or the like without the member's comfort and consent.
To not arrange for substitutions or stand-ins unless the member has been previously advised and that the member understands that you remain responsible for the case and to contact you if there is any concern or if proceedings do not go as planned.
To always respect a member, their needs and family.
To maintain a professional office, in staffing and appearance.
To fully explain yourself such that a member has an understanding for the reasons behind your recommendations and suggestions, even if a member may not hire your firm.
To not complete any additional work that will result in a fee to the member, where not covered by the member's plan, until a fee arrangement is fully understood by the member and there is a written agreement.
To help each member individually and ensure that everything you do is in the interest of the member.
To notify LegalEASE if there is or may be the possibility of a conflict of interest or violation of ethical codes.
To notify LegalEASE if there may be a misunderstanding or potential service issue where there may be a complaint without breaking any client confidences.
To direct any grievances or concerns, such as process procedure or billing, to Legal Access and not a member.
To not refer any member to another attorney without the knowledge and consent of Legal Access if you cannot assist.
To take responsibility and uphold the highest standards of customer service delivered by any and all firm staff or employees that have interaction with members.
To communicate and cooperate with LegalEASE on any concern, inquiry or issue and return any communication from Legal Access within one business day.

Call 1(800) 248-9000, to learn more about attorneys in your network today.

About

We are here to serve you...

We believe people deserve to have a sense of safety and security, a peace of mind, when it comes to being protected in legal matters that they may not be the experts in. To have access to legal professionals that can ease and solve their legal burdens. We are here to serve you.

How we do it is by providing an in-depth pool of resources to accommodate all your legal needs. Legal Access and LegalEASE have broad experiences with employees in small, medium and large companies in the public and private sectors, local, state and federal government offices, unions, employee assistance plans, work-life companies, and organizations, when it comes to solving your legal matters.

What we do is provide value by creating unparalleled access to a network of skilled attorneys to cover your legal needs with options in convenient plans. We are a diversified employee benefits company engaged in administration, network development, technology management and insurance, based in Houston, Texas. Since 1971, we have grown from five attorneys in Los Angeles providing services to a modest amount of companies into a company with the strongest attorney network across America. We provide assistance to members over half of a million times each year throughout the United States and the world.

Legal Access Companies consists of several companies and brands to best meet customer needs, including but not limited to: Legal Plans USA, Legal Access Plans, LegalEASE, and LAMG. Legal Access Plans has a wide array of products across several market segements, including worksite, employee assistance and worklife. LegalEASE is the group's primary insurance brand and focuses primarily in the worksite market. LegalEASE products are underwritten and presented by Virginia Surety Company, part of the Warranty Group.