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Benefits Proudly Offered to Northside ISD 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
The LegalEASE Plan + ID Monitoring is only $16.28 per month, via payroll deduction.
Who's Covered?
The Member’s spouse and Member’s unmarried dependent children, including stepchildren, legally adopted children, children placed in the home for adoption and foster children, up to age 26.
|
Plan Coverages |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Advice and Consultation |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
|
Telephone Advice |
Covered |
Not Applicable |
|
Initial Law Office Consultation |
Covered |
Not Applicable |
|
Review of Simple Documents |
Covered |
Not Applicable |
| Financial Advisor | In Network Coverage | Out of Network Coverage |
| Financial Helpline | Covered | Not Applicable |
| Identity Theft Prevention/Recovery Assistance | In Network Coverage | Out of Network Coverage |
| Identity Theft Insurance | Covered | Not Applicable |
| Full-Service Identity Restoration | Covered | Not Applicable |
| Credit Monitoring | Covered | Not Applicable |
| Internet Surveillance | Covered | Not Applicable |
| Child Identity Monitoring | Covered | Not Applicable |
| Lost Wallet Services | Covered | Not Applicable |
|
Miscellaneous Law Office Services |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
| Miscellaneous Law Office Services |
Covered up to
10 hours with
remainder at 25%
discount
|
$600 |
| Discounted Hourly Rate |
25% Discount on
Attorney's Hourly
Rates
|
Not Applicable |
|
Consumer Matters |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
|
Document Preparation:
|
Covered |
|
|
Consumer Dispute |
Covered |
$600 |
|
Small Claims Court Representation |
Covered up to 2 Hours with Remainder at 25% Discount |
$120 |
|
Estate Planning |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
|
Simple Will or Codicil for:
|
Covered |
$90 |
|
Living Will |
Covered |
$55 |
| Health Care Power of Attorney | Covered | $55 |
|
Living Trust Document |
Covered |
$310 |
|
Probate of Small Estate |
Covered up to 2 Hours with Remainder at 25% Discount |
$120 |
| Elder Law | In Network Coverage | Out of Network Coverage |
| Will Preparation | Covered | $80 |
| Living Will/Health Care or Advanced Directive | Covered | $55 |
| Durable Financial Power of Attorney | $45/Co-Pay | Not Applicable |
| Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney | $45/Co-Pay | Not Applicable |
|
Home and Residential Matters |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
|
Purchase of primary residence including document
preparation and closing)
|
Covered |
$490 |
|
Sale of Primary Residence |
Covered | $365 |
|
Refinancing of Primary Residence |
Covered |
$385 |
| Vacation or Investment Home Sale/Purchase/Refinancing | Covered | $425 |
| Home Equity Loan Assistance | Covered | $360 |
|
Tenant Dispute |
Covered |
$1,700 |
| Boundary or Title Dispute | Covered | $595 |
| Zoning Application | Covered | $595 |
|
Financial Matters |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
|
Debt Collection Defense: Pre-Litigation Defense |
Covered |
$425 |
|
Debt Collection Defense: Trial Defense |
Covered |
$850 |
|
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7 or 13) |
Covered | $935 |
|
Foreclosure |
Covered |
$680 |
|
Tax Audit |
Covered |
$2,000 |
|
Family |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
|
Separation, Divorce, Civil Annulment:
|
Covered |
$595 |
|
Contested Divorce |
Covered up to
28.5 hours with
remainder at 25%
discount
|
$2,000 |
| Post-Divorce Proceedings |
Covered up to
28.5 hours with
remainder at 25%
discount
|
$2,000 |
| Name Change | Covered | $255 |
| Guardianship/Conservatorship |
Uncontested: Covered Contested: 25% discount |
|
| Governmental Agency Adoptions |
Uncontested: Covered
Contested: 25% discount
|
|
|
Stepparent Adoptions |
Uncontested: Covered
Contested: 25% discount
|
|
| Child Custody/Support Involving Never-Married Parents of a Child |
Covered up to
28.5 hours with
remainder at 25%
discount
|
$1,700 |
|
Juvenile Court Proceedings |
Covered |
$470 |
| School Administrative Proceeding | Covered | $425 |
| Immigration Assistance |
Covered up to
10 hours with
remainder at 25%
discount
|
$595 |
|
Civil |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
| Civil Litigation Defense | Covered | $2,000 |
| Discounted Contingency Fees | 10% Discount | Not Applicable |
| Mediation | 10% Discount | Not Applicable |
|
Criminal Defense |
In Network Coverage |
Out of Network Coverage |
|
Traffic Ticket |
Covered | $215 |
| Serious Traffic Matters (resulting in suspension or revocation of license) |
Covered |
$425 |
|
Administrative Proceeding (Resulting in Suspension or Revocation of License) |
Covered |
$300 |
|
Misdemeanor Defense |
Covered |
$2,000 |
| DUI/DWI Defense | Covered | $2,000 |
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;
LegalEASE 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.
Additional Elder Benefits
Take Care of Your Parents with LegalEASE Benefits
LegalEASE offers a benefits plan that provides support and protection from unexpected personal legal issues.
For an additional $5.75 per month, you can have access to benefits to protect your parents.
LegalEASE has got you covered during all important moments in your parents’ life.
- Simple Will Preparation
- Living Will Preparation
- Powers of Attorney
- Document Reviews
- Medicare
- Mortgages
- Prescription Plans
The value of a LegalEASE Plan.
Benefits below are offered to help protect your parents. Being a LegalEASE member saves you and your parents’ time and costly legal fees. But most importantly, it gives you confidence and provides you coverage* for:
Financial & Consumer
- Promissonary Notes
Estate Planning & Wills
- Powers of Attorney
- Healthcare
- Financial
- Childcare
- Immigration
- Complex Wills
- Simple Wills
- Codicils
- Living Wills
- Healthcare Proxies
Home and Residential Matters
- Deeds
- Mortgages
- Leases
Family
- Affidavits
- Demand Letters
- Review of Any Personal Legal Document
- Prescription Plans
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Notes
- Nursing Home Agreements
General
- Financial Counseling
- Web Access
- Legal Corner Access
- Identity Management Services
*Limitations apply.
ID Monitoring
LegalEASE is an Identity Monitoring and Restoration Program that provides support and protection from unexpected personal identity theft issues.
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, L.L.C.; or its subsidiary.
“MEMBER SERVICES CENTER” - means the service location established to help make full use of the certificate benefits.
“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 and upon receipt of payment.
“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 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.
“MEMBER” - refers to the individual who is associated with the Contractholder and who has paid or a payment has been made on their behalf and who meets the eligibility requirements for Covered Services.
“NON-PARTICIPATING ATTORNEY” - means an attorney not retained by Administrator who is selected and paid by the Member to provide services covered under the Certificate of Coverage 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 Contractholder or the Member’s employer which makes coverage hereunder available.
“CONTRACTHOLDER” - means the organization as named in the Certificate face page.
“WE”, “US”, “OUR” AND “COMPANY” - means the name of the underwriter indicated on the face page.
Covered Services
In consideration of payment and receipt by Us of the applicable payment, 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. Calls can relate to any personal legal matter, civil or criminal, except those specifically excluded.
Financial and Tax Helpline:
Consultation by toll-free telephone during normal business hours. 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.
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, spouse 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, spouse 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.
Living Trust Document
Preparation of living trust documents. This benefit does not include services related to transactions to fund the trust or transfer assets into it.
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 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 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 courtordered 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.
Bankruptcy
Representation on behalf of the Member or Family Member for personal (non-business related) bankruptcy protection under Chapter 7 or 13 of the Internal Revenue Code.
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.
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 Contract 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 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 (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 does not include defense of moving traffic violations.
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.
d) 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.
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, 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.
Immigration Services
Your benefits package includes Immigration Services as described below. These benefits are in addition to plan services described in your Certificate of Coverage. The services below are provided for up to one Eligible Family Member, as described below, per year. Eligible Family Members include spouse, children up to any age, parents of member and spouse and siblings of member and spouse.
1. Advice and Consultation:
a) Plan Member or Eligible Family Member will receive up to one-half hour office consultation per issue with a participating attorney on any personal immigration matter.
2. Review of Immigration Documents:
a) A Plan Attorney will review and explain the meaning or impact of any immigration form or document, or make suggestions for changes to a form or document being drafted that is up to six (6) pages.
3. Discounted Rate:
a) Plan Member or Eligible Family Member receives a discounted hourly rate, up to a 25% discount from the Plan Attorney’s normal hourly rate, for additional representation. Flat fees may not be discounted.
4. Preparation for Hearings:
a) Plan Member or Eligible Family Member will receive up to two hours of general preparation for immigration hearings.
5. Preparation of Documents:
a) A Plan Attorney will prepare necessary affidavits and powers of attorney for the Plan Member or Eligible Family Member at no charge.
To access services, Plan Member or Spouse must call the Member Service Center and identify the family member for whom services are requested.
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. Preparation of Prenuptial Agreement Flat Rate of $239:
a) This service covers the preparation of an agreement by a Plan 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 Plan Member. The fiancé/partner must have separate counsel or must waive representation.
To access services, Plan Member or Spouse must call the Member Service Center.
Obtaining 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. 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. 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 must remain enrolled and continue to pay payment hereunder. All 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, only the Member will be covered.
If two or more Family Members are involved in a dispute that is otherwise covered, no coverage will be provided.
If two Members are involved as adversaries in a dispute that is a Covered Service, separate coverage for each Member will be provided.
Exclusions
The following benefits are excluded:
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 and Canada; 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 incomeproducing 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 Group Contract; Administrator or its subsidiaries; Contractholder; 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 Group Contract / Certificate of Coverage.
Except regarding LegalEASE Helpline and Financial Helpline services, benefits will not be provided 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, the Members agree that neither We, nor the Contractholder, nor any other person involved in the marketing or administration of the Group Contract, shall have any liability for the acts, errors or omissions of an attorney providing services, in whole or in part.
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. 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.
Payment Refund Provision
In the event that the payment mode is other than monthly and the Group Contract is terminated or the Member elects to terminate the contract, a prorata refund will be made to you.
Termination and Cancellation of Coverage
Contract benefits for the Member and Family Member shall terminate on the earliest of the following dates: (1) the last day of the last month for which payment has been received. However, if the payment is received during the thirty-one (31) day grace period, coverage will not be terminated; (2) the date the Group Contract is terminated.
Arbitration
If a Member/Family Member have a complaint against Us and the Member Services Center cannot solve the problem, the Member/Family Member have a right to proceed to arbitration under the rules of the American Arbitration Association. Arbitration is not the exclusive remedy to resolve a complaint and does not deny the Member/Family Member the right to due process through the judicial system.
Conform to Statute
Any terms of the Group Contract/Certificate of Coverage which are in conflict with the statutes of the jurisdiction where issued, are amended to conform to the statutes.
Coverage Period
The coverage period is automatically renewable upon receipt of appropriate payment unless terminated in accordance with the terms hereof.
Grace Period
The Certificate of Coverage provides a grace period of thirty-one (31) days after the payment due date to remit the payment that is due and unpaid. During the grace period, this Certificate will continue in effect. If the payment remains unpaid at the end of the grace period, the Certificate will terminate. Termination will be effective at 12:01 a.m. on the 32rd day following the due date for which payment remains unpaid. Member shall remain liable for the prorate portion of all payments that accrue for the period this Certificate is in effect.
Fraud and Misrepresentation
All statements, in the absence of fraud, made by a Member shall be deemed representations and not warranties. No such statement shall void or reduce benefits under this Certificate after it has been in force for two (2) years from the effective date unless contained in a written application of which a copy if attached to this Certificate and such statement is material to the risk assumed.
Miscellaneous
To obtain information or make a complaint:
You may call Virginia Surety Company’s toll-free telephone number for information or to make a complaint at 1-800-209-6206.
You may also write to Virginia Surety Company, Inc. at:
175 W. Jackson Blvd, 11th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
You may contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to obtain information on companies, coverages, rights or complaints at 1-800-803-9202.
You may write the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation at:
P.O. Box 12157
Austin, Texas 78711
Payment or Claim Disputes:
Should you have a dispute concerning your payment or about a claim, you should contact Virginia Surety Company, Inc. first. If the dispute is not resolved, you may contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Legal service contract companies and their sales representatives are regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
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.