J.W. Cheatham, LLC

J.W. Cheatham, LLC

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To enroll in the LegalEASE Plan, please return your completed application to you HR administrator. 

Questions? Contact Us.
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Enrollment Questions:

To learn more about LegalEASE and the legal benefits you will get,

   Call us at: 1(800) 248-9000.

 

   Or message us by clicking here.

 

Member Services:

   Call us at: 1(888) 416-4313.

 

   Or message us by clicking here.

Welcome

Benefits Proudly Offered to J.W. Cheatham, LLC Employees

 

Be fully prepared and confident

 with LegalEASE

Learn about legal insurance, 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

Option 1: The LegalEASE Plan is $4.04 per pay period, via payroll deductions, based on a weekly payroll deduction schedule. 

Option 2: The LegalEASE Plan + ID Monitoring is $6.00 per period, via payroll deduction, based on a weekly payroll deduction schedule.

Who's Covered? 

The Member’s spouse and Member’s unmarried dependent children, including stepchild, legally adopted child, child placed in the home for adoption and foster child, 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 Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Helpline

Covered

Not Applicable

Initial Law Office Consultation

(One hour per calendar quarter)

Covered

$60/consultation

Review of Simple Documents -  up to 6 pages

Covered

$60

Miscellaneous Law Office Services

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

 
25% discount off attorney’s hourly rate

Not Applicable

Consumer Matters

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan 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

 

  • $60
  • $60
  • $60
  • $60
  • $60
  • $60/consultation
  • $40/Family Member Documentation
  • $60
  • $60

Consumer Dispute

Covered

$60

Small Claims Court Representation

Covered up to 2 hours

$120

 Estate Planning

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

Will or Codicil for Member

Covered

$90/document

Complex Will

25% Discount

Not Applicable

Living Will and/or Health Care Power of Attorney Covered $40

Probate of Small Estate

Covered up to 2 Hours 
$120

Home and Residential Matters

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

Non-Commercial Real Estate Closing Flat Rate of $175 Not Applicable

Refinancing of Primary Residence*

Covered $150

Landlord / Tenant Disputes

$500 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules** $500 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

Financial Matters

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

Debt Collection Defense: Pre-Litigation Defense

Covered 

$120

Debt Collection Defense: Trial Defense

$700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules** $480 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

Foreclosure

$480 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

$480 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

Tax Audit*

$1,000 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

$1,000 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

Corporation (Regular) Flat Rate of $239 Not Applicable
Bankruptcy Chapter 7 Flat Rate of $750 Not Applicable

Family Matters

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

Uncontested Separation* 

Covered up to 10 hours

$500

Consent/default Divorce*

Covered up to 10 hours 

$500

Uncontested Divorce*

Covered up to 10 hours 

$500

Contested Divorce, as defined*

$1,500 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**
$1,500 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules** 

Name Change

Covered

$200

Guardianship/Conservatorship

Covered
$400

Uncontested Governmental Agency Adoptions

Covered
$300

Uncontested Stepparent Adoptions

Covered
$300
Juvenile Court Proceeding
Covered
$375
Non-Support (Spouse/Child) Flat Rate of $239 Not Applicable

Civil Matters

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

Civil Litigation Defense* $1,000 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules** $1,000 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

Criminal Defense

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

Traffic Ticket Defense Flat Rate of $89 Not Applicable

Traffic Ticket Defense (resulting in suspension or revocation of license)

Covered

$360

Administrative Proceeding (Resulting in Suspension or Revocation of License)

Covered

$200

Misdemeanor Defense

$1,500 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

$1,500 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules**

Additional Benefits

 LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Participating Attorney

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

Non-Participating Attorney

Elder Law

Covered

Not Applicable

Identity Theft Assistance

Covered

Not Applicable

Mediation

Covered

Not Applicable

Savings Assistance Services 

Covered

Not Applicable

Limitations apply.

*Six month waiting period following the effective date 

** Managed Case Rules require the following:
1. Member and/or Family Member must secure a confirmation letter from the Member Services 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.

 

 

Identity Monitoring

LegalEASE offers an Identity Monitoring and Restoration Program that provides support and protection from unexpected personal identity theft issues.
 
ID Monitoring Benefits only available for the Plan Option 2: The LegalEASE Plan + ID Monitoring for $6.00 per pay period, via payroll deduction, based on a weekly payroll deduction schedule.
 
What Employees get with a LegalEASE Identity Theft Plan: 
 
  • Monitoring to ensure no problems arise
  • Access to a national network of attorneys with exceptional experience that are matched to meet your employees’ needs
  • Credit-Monitoring Data coverage
  • Child Identity Monitoring
  • Concierge help navigating common individual or family issues
 
The Value of a LegalEASE Plan:
 
No-Credit Data 
 
Internet Surveillance & Dark Web Monitoring- Scans online sources known for illegally buying and selling personal information, such as your stolen passwords, Social Security number, and date of birth, and notifies you if your identity may be at risk. 
 
Lost Wallet
 
Protection for credit cards, debit cards, passports, checkbooks, driver’s licenses, Social Security cards, military identification cards, traveler’s checks, Medicare/Medicaid identification, insurance cards
 
Credit Monitoring
 
Members can enjoy peace of mind with proactive monitoring of multiple credit report(s) with alerts of any critical changes.
 
General
 
Identity Theft Insurance will reimburse Subscribers residing in the United States for certain ancillary expenses associated with restoring their identity should they become a victim of identity theft after such Subscriber is properly enrolled.  The Company has been issued a policy that covers eligible expenses for up to $1,000,000, with no deductible, subject to the terms, limits and/or exclusions of the policy. 
 
Full Identity Restoration
 
  • A certified identity theft restoration specialist assigned to identity fraud victims to provide full-service identity restoration over the duration of the case
  • Use of a specialized limited power of attorney to work on the Subscriber’s behalf to restore the identity case, which frees them from that burden
  • Interactive dispute letters to creditors and government agencies
  • Interactive dispute letters to credit bureaus

Definitions

Definitions

“PLAN” ATTORNEY” - means an attorney associated with a private law firm, who is licensed to practice law in the Member’s state. These attorneys have been contracted to provide legal advice and simple service by telephone to Members.

“ADMINISTRATOR” - means LegalPlans, USA; or its subsidiary.

“MEMBER SERVICES CENTER” - means the service location established to help make full use of the Policy.
 
“COMPLEX WILL” - means the Member has a significant net worth and will benefit from tax planning, or the estate is subject to current state or federal estate taxation; the Member owns a business that will continue in operation after death; the Member wants to put restrictions on what heirs may do with the property; the Member wants to leave money to someone in a trust because the person cannot manage his or her own affairs (such as a mentally handicapped child), or wants the property to be managed by a trustee for a period of time past the child’s age of majority, to age 25 or 30, for example; the Member thinks that someone will challenge the will; and/or the Member wants to exclude any lawful dependents.
 
“EFFECTIVE DATE” - means the date coverage hereunder begins.
 
“FAMILY MEMBER” - means the Member’s lawful spouse and children. Eligible Family Members are the Member’s spouse and Member’s unmarried dependent children, including stepchild, legally adopted child, child placed in the home for adoption and foster child, 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.
 
“MEMBER” - refers to the individual who is associated with the Policyholder and who has paid or a premium has been paid on their behalf and who meets the eligibility requirements for Covered Services in the Policy.
 
“NON-PARTICIPATING ATTORNEY” - means an attorney not retained by Administrator who is selected and paid by the Member to provide services covered under the Policy up to the maximum amount as shown in the Schedule of Benefits.
 
“PAID IN FULL” - means complete payment to a Participating Attorney for covered legal services.
 
“PARTICIPATING ATTORNEY” - means an attorney retained by the Administrator to provide covered legal services at the amount shown in the Schedule of Benefits.
 
“PLAN SPONSOR” - means an organization other than the Policyholder or the Member’s employer which makes coverage hereunder available.
 
“POLICYHOLDER” - means the organization named in the declarations page.
 
“WE”, “US”, “OUR” AND “COMPANY” - means the name of the underwriter indicated on the declarations page of this Policy.
 
Covered Services
 
In consideration of payment and receipt by Us of the applicable premium, all Covered Services are available to a Member and the Member’s spouse and eligible dependents. Except as noted below, the following Covered Services are provided to the Member when the Member uses a Participating Attorney. The Schedule of Benefits chart shows the reimbursement schedule when the Member uses a Non-Participating Attorney.
 
Advice and Consultation
LegalEASE Helpline:
Advice and consultation by toll-free telephone with a Plan Attorney. Services are available during normal business hours (EST). Calls can relate to any personal legal matter, civil or criminal, except those specifically excluded.
Financial Helpline:
Consultation by toll-free telephone during normal business hours (EST). Calls can relate to investment strategies, debt matters or any personal financial planning question.
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. See Miscellaneous Law Office Services.
Miscellaneous Law Office Services
Benefits not specifically covered or excluded hereunder to be provided at an amount shown in the Schedule of Benefits.
This benefit is limited to one use per year and is subject to Managed Case Rules.
Review of Simple Document
The Plan 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.
Document Preparation
Preparation of any of the following documents: simple deed (excluding those reviewed or prepared under the real estate benefit), promissory note, consumer dispute correspondence, installment sales agreement, general power of attorney, lease agreement (tenant only), time share agreement, and simple affidavit.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
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 benefit is limited to one use per year.
Small Claims Court Representation
Consultation and/or representation for a consumer dispute filed in small claims court.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
Will and Codicil Preparation
Preparation of one simple will or codicil (an amendment to an existing will) for the Member and spouse only, including the preparation of a simple testamentary support trust for the dependent children:
Simple Will Preparation: Plan Attorney shall prepare a simple will or codicil for Member and Family Member and discuss the legal requirements for signing the will.
Complex Will Preparation: Plan Attorney shall prepare a complex will or codicil for Member or Family
Member at a discounted fee paid directly to the attorney as shown in the Schedule of Benefits.
Living Will and/or Health Care Power of Attorney
Preparation of living will and/or health care power of attorney for Member and/or 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/her self.
This benefit 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 Benefits.
Real Estate Refinancing of Primary Residence
The services of an attorney for 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 benefit 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 benefit is limited to one closing per year and is subject to a waiting period, if any, as shown in the Schedule of Benefits.
Landlord/Tenant Disputes
Representation of the Member and/or Family Member as a tenant in a dispute with his/her landlord.
This benefit is limited to one use per year and is subject to Managed Case Rules.
Debt Collection Defense
The defense of any dispute involving personal (non-business related) debt. This benefit 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 benefit is limited to one use per year. Trial defense benefit is subject to Managed Case Rules.
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 benefit is limited to one use per year and is subject to Managed Case Rules.
Tax Audits
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 benefit does not include a defense against criminal charges nor the defense of civil tax litigation in any tax court.
This benefit is limited to one use per year and is subject to a waiting period, if any, as shown in the Schedule of Benefits. This benefit is subject to Managed Case Rules.
Separation, Divorce, Annulment
Legal representation of the Member only for up to 10 hours 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 benefit for uncontested matters does not provide any coverage of an attorney’s fee for: (1) services in excess of 10 hours; the Member must pay the attorney’s fee for services in excess of 10 hours; (2) services relative to post-decree representation; or, (3) contested matters in which case the Member must pay the attorney’s fee for services, unless this Policy provides coverage of contested matters and the benefit shall be in accordance with the Schedule of Benefits. A contested separation, divorce or civil annulment requires more than five (5) hours of attorney time, involves disputed issues and both parties are represented by an attorney.
This benefit 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 only. This benefit is subject to a waiting period, if any, as shown in the Schedule of Benefits. Contested divorce is subject to the Managed Case Rules.
Name Change
Services required to accomplish a legal name change for a Member or Family Member.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
Guardianship/Conservatorship
Services required to establish a Member and/or Family Member as the guardian(s) or conservator(s) of another.
This benefit does not include contested matters.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
Uncontested Adoption
Legal representation for a Member and/or Family Member of up to five (5) hours in an uncontested governmental agency or stepparent adoption. An uncontested adoption does not involve significant disputed issues. This benefit does not include: (1) contested termination of parental rights; (2) fees for a courtappointed attorney for the child; or (3) adoptions(s) made through any agency other than a governmental agency. A contested adoption requires more than five (5) hours of attorney time and involves disputed issues.
If the amount of an attorney’s times for uncontested adoption exceeds five (5) hours, or if the adoption becomes contested, coverage will terminate and the Member and/or Family Member will be responsible for any additional legal fees.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
Juvenile Court Matters
Services related to the representation of the dependent child of a Member and/or Family Member in any juvenile court proceeding, provided the child’s interest is not in conflict with the Member’s and/or Family Member’s interest. This benefit does not cover any matter that falls outside the jurisdiction of juvenile court.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
Civil Litigation Defense
Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Family Member who is a named defendant in a civil lawsuit (non-business related), up to and including the trial thereof. This benefit 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 has or is required by law to have insurance.
This benefit is limited to one use per year and is subject to a waiting period, if any, as shown in the Schedule of Benefits. This benefit is subject to the Managed Case Rules.
Traffic Defense
Services related to the representation of a Member and/or 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 Family Member’s drivers’ license.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
Administrative Proceeding
Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Family Member in an administrative proceeding relating to the suspension or revocation of driving privileges.
This benefit is limited to one use per year.
Misdemeanor Defense
Defense of a Member and/or Family Member in connection with criminal misdemeanor charges (not associated with any felony charge).
This benefit is limited to one use per year. This benefit is subject to Managed Case Rules.
 
Elder Law Services
Your benefits package includes Elder Law Services as described below. These benefits are in addition to plan services described in your Certificate of Coverage.
1) Eligibility of Parents
a) Parents of the Plan Member and the Member’s Spouse, regardless of age, are eligible for benefits under the Elder Law coverage described herein.
b) The benefits specified below extend not only to the Member’s Parents and the Member’s Spouse’s Biological Parents, but their Step-Parents and Adoptive Parents as well.
2) Benefits for Elder Parents
a) Advice and Consultation
1. LegalADVISOR Helpline:
Member may receive advice and consultation by toll-free telephone with a Plan Attorney. Services are available during normal business hours. Calls can relate to any personal legal matter, civil or criminal.
2. Financial Helpline:
Member will receive consultation by toll-free telephone during normal business hours. Calls can relate to investment strategies, debt matters or any personal financial planning question
b) Free Simple Wills & Living Wills
1. Simple Will Preparation:
Each Eligible Parent, as defined above, may receive one Simple Will per year at no charge. Plan Attorney will prepare the document and discuss the legal requirements for executing the Will.
Simple Will means the will maker does not have a significant net worth and will not benefit from tax planning, or the estate is not subject to current state or federal estate taxation; the will maker does not own a business that will continue in operation after death; the will maker does not want to put restrictions on what heirs may do with the property; the will maker does not want to leave money to someone in a trust because the person cannot manage his or her own affairs (such as a mentally handicapped child), or does not want the property to be managed by a trustee for a period of time past the child’s age of majority, to age 25 or 30, for example; the will maker does not think that someone will challenge the will; and/or the will maker does not want to exclude any lawful dependents.
2. Living Will Preparation:
Eligible Parents, as defined above, may request one Living Will per year at no charge. Plan Attorney will prepare the document as authorized by state law and discuss the legal requirements for signing the Living Will. A Living Will expresses an individual’s wishes as to the use or withdrawal of life support systems.
c) Additional documents may be prepared for a minimal charge:
1. Additional documents may be prepared for a minimal charge, up to once
per year per Eligible Parent, as described above:
  • Healthcare Directive - $45 fee per document
  • Financial Power of Attorney - $45 fee per document
  • Durable Power of Attorney - $45 fee per document
  • Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney - $45 fee per document
Any 3 or more of the above documents may be prepared for a package cost of $115 per set.
 
Flat Rate Benefits
Your benefits package includes benefits that will be covered at a flat rate charged to the member as described below. These benefits are in addition to plan services described in your Certificate of Coverage. Eligible Family Members include spouse and unmarried dependent
children, including stepchild, legally adopted child, child placed in the home for adoption and foster child, up to age 19, and from age 19 up to 25 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.
1. Traffic Ticket Defense Flat Rate of $89:
a) Traffic defense generally includes the preparation of court documents and attendance at on a one-time only court hearing to settle the issue. Does not include court costs, fines, additional hearings or other related expenses. Does not apply in jurisdictions that consider traffic offenses to be criminal matters.
2. Non-Commercial Real Estate Closing Flat Rate of $175:
a) This service includes reviewing the purchase or sale agreements, one hour of telephone consultations, and a one hour appearance at closing for the purchase or sale of residential real estate not used for business or investments purposes. Title policy, other documentation and extended consultations (if any) is an additional charge.
3. Corporation (Regular) Flat Rate of $239:
a) This service includes reviewing the purchase or sale agreements, one hour of telephone consultations, and a one hour appearance at closing for the purchase or sale of residential real estate not used for business or investments purposes. Title policy, other documentation and extended consultations (if any) is an additional charge.
4. Non-Support (Spouse/Child) Flat Rate of $239:
a) This service includes the preparation for and the attendance at a single hearing for judgments or contempt citations for non-payment of alimony, child support or maintenance and one hour of collection efforts after the hearing. Preparation does not include obtaining or discovering evidence, extended court time, and extended collections work.
5. Bankruptcy Chapter 7 Flat Rate of $750:
a) This service includes preparation of the petitions, documents, and schedules. Filing fees, court appearances and costs are additional. Attorneys have the option to offer you a single fixed rate which would include the basic fixed fee plus costs, court time and expenses. To access services, Plan Member or Spouse must call the Member Service Center.
 
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 covered members.
1) Advice and Consultation
a) Free ½ hour telephonic consultations (4 per year) with a Trained Identity Theft Recovery Specialist (consultations can also be online – member’s choice)
b) Online Assistance in understanding identity theft prevention
c) Unlimited access to complete identity theft legal issue law libraries
2) 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 free consultations with the Recovery Specialist).
b) Free Simple 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 further loss of your identity and credit rating.
c) Free Review of necessary recovery legal documents (up to 6 pages each)
 
Mediation Services
Your benefits package includes Mediation Services as described below. These benefits are in addition to plan services described in your Certificate of Coverage.
1. Consultation Services:
a) Plan members receive unlimited access to online information including domestic disputes, divorce or child custody proceedings, consumer problems, medical bill, warranties, loan disputes, workplace employee disputes, auto accidents, etc.
b) Members receive one free thirty minute consultation with a licensed mediator every quarter.
2. Mediation Counseling Assistance:
a) Assistance is available to assist members with understanding mediation and alternative dispute resolution. Examples of some topics are; charting projected lawsuit expenses, understanding when mediation might work, managing legal expenses in mediation, educational tools to make an informed decision, and advice on selecting mediator or other options.
b) These services are designed to help members deal with the increase in resolution pace.
3. Additional Mediation Services:
a) Plan members receive a 10% discount on Plan Mediators’ normal fees. This includes hourly rates and flat fees. However, this does not apply to Contingency Fees.
 
Savings Assistance Services
Your benefits package includes a Savings Assistance Plan as described below. These benefits are in addition to plan services described in your Certificate of Coverage.
1. Consultation Services:
a) Plan members are entitled to an initial consultation with one of our Savings Coaches for savings information including how to get started, how much is the right amount, how can I possibly save, how can I create a savings plan, can I save while I am in debt, and similarly related topics.
2. Creation of Savings Plan Assistance:
a) Counselor assistance to help members with creating their own personal savings plan is also included in the Saving Assistance Coverage. This service will include charting projected income and expenses, helping the member understand when savings might work, managing expenses in debt, educational tools to make an informed decision, and advice on selecting savings amounts options. This section of the plan is designed to help members deal with their increasing debt and need to save.
3. Additional Follow-up Services:
a) Plan members may utilize one, free, thirty minute telephone consultation per year.
b) Follow-up consultations and help from Savings Coaches are also available to each plan member.
 
Obtaining Policy Benefits
 
Telephone Advice and Consultation on Legal and Financial Matters
Consultation by toll-free telephone with an attorney. Services are available during normal business hours (EST)
Calls can relate to any personal legal matter, civil or criminal, except those specifically excluded herein.
Financial Helpline:
Consultation by toll-free telephone during normal business hours (EST). Calls can relate to investment strategies, debt matters or any personal financial planning question.
Claim for Benefits
1. Members must call the Member Services Center to confirm eligibility and coverage prior to consulting with any attorney. The Member Services Center will assign a Participating Attorney to provide services relative to the matter. Failure to notify the Member Services Center within thirty (30) days following consultation with an attorney may result in a denial of benefits.
2. To obtain benefits under the Managed Case Rules:
Members and/or Family Member must secure a confirmation letter from the Member Services 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 Family Member.
3. Members actively receiving services under this Policy must remain enrolled and continue to pay premium hereunder. All Policy benefits will be subject to subrogation and coordination of benefit rules.
4. Upon completion of a Covered Service, the Member and/or Family Member will be required by the Participating Attorney to sign a confirmation of completion.
5. If the Member and/or Family Member pays for pre-authorized services provided by a Non-Participating Attorney, the Member must submit a reimbursement form (provided by Member Services Center) accompanied by an original itemized bill within sixty (60) days after incurring the legal fees. Benefits provided to the Member and/or Family Member for Covered Services are subject to the maximum as shown in the Schedule of Benefits.
Disputes Between Member and Family Member
In the event that the Member and one of the Family Members are involved as adversaries in a dispute that is a Covered Service, the Policy will cover the Member only.
If two or more Family Members are involved in a dispute that is otherwise covered under the Policy, the Policy will provide no coverage.
If two Members are involved as adversaries in a dispute that is a Covered Service, the Policy will provide separate coverage for each 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 ; any matters involving a government (domestic or foreign) entity or agency; 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 which 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, judgements, 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 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 of the Policy; Administrator or its subsidiaries; Policyholder; Member’s employer;
Virginia Surety Company, Inc. 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.
Except regarding Helpline and Financial Helpline services, the Policy will not provide benefits in connection with preexisting matters, which includes any matter where the Member and/or Family Member is on notice as to a pending legal dispute or has previously contacted an attorney.
 
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.
Member shall authorize Participating Attorney to provide the Administrator with anonymous statistical reports on the number and type of services provided to Member.
By using legal services benefits for which are provided under the Policy, the Members agree that neither We, nor the Policyholder, nor any other person involved in the marketing or administration of the Policy, shall have any liability for the acts, errors or omissions of an attorney providing services, in whole or in part, under the Policy.
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 Services Center and notify the representative of his/her intention to use a Non-Participating Attorney for a Covered Service. The Member Services Center will send the Member a claim form to request reimbursement from the Policy. The Member’s reimbursement will be based on the reimbursement schedule as shown in the Schedule of Benefits.
Legal Terminology
The Member or Family Member may call the Member Services Center to obtain a definition or explanation of any term used herein.
Coverage Period
The coverage period is automatically renewable upon receipt of appropriate premium unless terminated in accordance with the terms hereof.
Coverage Territory
The coverage territory includes the states identified in Schedule A attached hereto.
Premium Refund Provision
In the event that the premium mode is other than monthly and the Policy is terminated or the Member elects to terminate the coverage, a prorata premium refund will be made in accordance with the insurance laws of the Policyholder’s state.
Termination and Cancellation of Coverage
Coverage provided to Member shall terminate upon the first of the following to occur:
a. Cancellation or termination of this Policy;
b. If applicable, the Member fails to re-enroll;
c. The Member is no longer associated with Policyholder; or
d. The Member fails to remit premium when due, subject to the statutory grace period.
Coverage provided to Family Member of a Member shall terminate upon the first of the following to occur:
a. The Member’s coverage is cancelled or terminated; or
b. The Family Member ceases to be an eligible Family Member of the Member’s coverage.
When coverage for a Member and/or Family Member terminates and a matter is unresolved when coverage terminated, then any further legal work between said Member and/or Family Member and the Plan Attorney shall be outside the scope and coverage of the Policy. The Plan Attorney shall not be obligated to provide any benefits under the Policy 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 Family Member and the attorney. If such an agreement is not entered into, then the Plan Attorney may withdraw from any further representation in accordance with applicable law and State Bar standards.
If this Policy has been in effect ninety (90) days or less, we may cancel this Policy by mailing or delivering to the Policyholder written notice of cancellation, including the specific reason(s) for cancellation, at least:
1. Ten (10) days before the effective date of cancellation if We cancel for nonpayment of premium; or
2. Twenty (20) days before the effective date of cancellation if We cancel for any other reason, except We may cancel immediately if there has been:
(a) A material misstatement or misrepresentation; or
(b) A failure to comply with underwriting requirements established by the insurer.
If this Policy has been in effect ninety (90) days or more, we may cancel this Policy only for one or more of the following reasons by mailing or delivering to the Policyholder forty-five (45) days written notice of cancellation:
1. The Policy was obtained by a material misstatement;
2. There has been a failure to comply with established underwriting requirements within ninety (90) days of the effective date of coverage;
3. There has been a substantial change in the risk covered for a given class of insureds.
Additionally, we retain the right to terminate the Policy upon ten (10) days written notice for the following reason:
1. Nonpayment of premium.
The Policyholder is responsible for notifying the Members of cancellation.
Premium Remittance
Policyholder shall remit premium to Company no later than the 10th calendar day following the month for which Policy coverage is provided.
Grace Period
The Policy provides Policyholder a grace period of thirty-one (31) days after the premium for covered Members due date to remit the premium that is due and unpaid. During the grace period, this Policy will continue in effect. If the premium for covered Members remains unpaid at the end of the grace period, the Policy will terminate. Termination will be effective at 12:01 a.m. on the thirty-second (32nd) day following the due date for which premium for covered Members remains unpaid. Policyholder shall remain liable for the prorata portion of all premiums that accrue for the period this Policy is in effect.
Amendment of the Policy
The Policy may be amended or changed at any time by the Company upon written notice thereof and signed by a duly authorized representative. No agent, broker or sales representative may make any change in this Policy or waive any of its provisions.
Notice of Policy Provisions
Notice to any agent or knowledge possessed by any agent or by any other person shall not effect a waiver or change any part of the Policy or stop Us from asserting any right under the terms of the Policy; nor shall terms of the Policy be waived or changed except as stated above.
Change in Premium
We shall provide the Policyholder written notice within thirty (30) days prior to the anniversary date of the Policy for any change in premium to be implemented. Any such change shall apply to the Policyholder on the anniversary date of the Policy. The Policyholder is responsible for notifying the Members of the change in premium.
Arbitration
This provision is voluntary and binding. All disputes and controversies of every kind and nature between the parties hereto arising out of or in connection with this Policy and the Policy application, the subject matter thereof, the negotiation thereof, the existence, construction, validity, interpretation, or meaning, performance, non-performance, enforcement, operation, breach of contract, continuation or termination thereof or any claim alleging fraud in fact, fraud in the inducement, deceit, or suppression of any material fact, bad faith may be submitted to binding arbitration pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Arbitration Act and according to the Commercial Rules of the American Arbitration Association. Such proceedings may be initiated by either party by notice in writing to the other and to the American Arbitration Association. Each party shall bear its own arbitration costs and expenses.
Conversion
The Member may continue this insurance by converting to an individual policy subject to state availability when the Member no longer qualifies as an employee of the Policyholder or as a Member of the group to which this Policy is issued. The Member must notify us within thirty-one (31) days of this disqualifying event to make arrangements for premium payment.
Policy Conformed to Statute
Any terms of the Policy which are in conflict with the statutes of the jurisdiction where issued, are amended to conform to the statutes.
Assignment of Benefits
The benefits provided under this Policy are not assignable.
Entire Contract
This Policy, including the application and endorsements, if any, constitutes the entire contract of insurance.

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.

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.