FHI 360

Welcome

Benefits Proudly Offered to FHI 360 Employees

Be fully prepared and confident

with LegalGUARD^sm

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

Product Presented By: Nationwide^®Insurance Product Administered By: LegalEASE

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. LegalGUARD provides coverage for your specific legal matter so you won't be caught off guard.

Protect your family’s future, with LegalGUARD.

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 LegalGUARD Plan. LegalGUARD 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 LegalGUARD 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.

Be fully prepared and confident with LegalGUARD.

Nobody likes to be caught off guard, especially when it comes to legal matters. So how can you affordably protect you and your family from those unforeseen events? By becoming a LegalGUARD member for less than a cup of coffee a day, your family and your wallet have the protection of the LegalGUARD Plan. Life can be complicated. Finding a good attorney doesn’t have to be. With LegalGUARD, 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 LegalGUARD member saves you time and costly legal fees. But most importantly, it gives you confidence and provides coverage for common legal matters.

With a LegalGUARD 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
Online articles, tools and tips
Concierge help finding a better attorney and navigating common individual or family legal issues
Up to 10 hours of financial counseling per year

Coverage

The value of a LegalGUARD Plan.

Being a LegalGUARD 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

LegalGUARD 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 LegalGUARD 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 LegalGUARD Plan is only $17.05 for individual coverage or $21.72 for family coverage per pay period, 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 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	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
LegalEASE Helpline	Covered	N/A
Initial Law Office Consultation¹ (One hour per calendar quarter)	Covered	N/A
Review of Simple Documents¹ - up to 6 Pages	Covered	N/A
Miscellaneous Law Office Services	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Legal Services for any Non-Excluded Legal Matter⁴	25% discount on Plan Attorney's Hourly Rates	N/A
Consumer Matters	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD 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	Paid in Full	$65 $55 $55 $55 $55 $55/Covered Family Member $65 $55
Life Insurance Claim^1,2	$2,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,700 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules
Mail order or Internet Purchase Dispute¹	Paid in Full up to 5 hours	$300
Consumer Dispute	Paid in Full	$595
Small Claims Court Reprsentation¹	Paid in Full up to 2 hours	$120
Bank Fee Dispute¹	Paid in Full up to 5 hours	$300
First-time Vehicle Buyer¹	Paid in Full up to 5 hours	$300
Vehicle Repair and Lemon Law Litigation¹	Paid in Full up to 5 hours	$300
Cell Phone Contract Dispute¹: Contract Review up to 6 Pages	Paid in Full	$300
Cell Phone Contract Dispute¹:Representation	Paid in Full up to 5 hours	$300
Warranty Dispute¹: Contract Review up to 6 Pages	Paid in Full	$300
Warranty Dispute¹: Representation	Paid in Full up to 5 hours	$300
Estate Planning	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Simple Will or Codicil for: Member Spouse Covered Family Member	Paid in Full	$80
Complex Will⁴	25% discount	N/A
Living Will or Health Care Power of Attorney	Paid in Full	$55
Living Trust Document	Paid in Full	$310
Probate of Small Estate¹	Paid in Full up to 2 Hours	$120
Home and Residential Matters	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Purchase of Primary Residence	Paid in Full	$490
Sale of Primary Residence	Paid in Full	$365
Refinancing of Primary Residence	Paid in Full	$255
Tenant Dispute^1,2	$2,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,700 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules
Tenant Security Deposit Dispute^1,2	$1,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules	$850 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules
Financial Matters	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Debt Collection Defense: Pre-Litigation Defense	Paid in Full	$425
Debt Collection Defense: Trial Defense^1,2	$700 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules	$595
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7 or 13)²	$750 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules	$640
Foreclosure^1,2	$660 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules	$565
Tax Audit^1,2	$2,000 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,700 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules
Family Matters	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Uncontested Separation¹	Paid in Full up to 10 hours	$595
Consent/default Divorce¹	Paid in Full up to 10 hours	$595
Uncontested Divorce¹	Paid in Full up to 10 hours	$595
Contested Divorce, as defined^1,2	Paid in Full up to $2,000 subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,700 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules
Name Change	Paid in Full	$255
Uncontested Guardianship/Conservatorship	Paid in Full	$425
Uncontested Governmental Agency Adoptions	Paid in Full	$340
Uncontested Stepparent Adoptions	Paid in Full	$340
Juvenile Court Proceedings²	Paid in Full subject to Managed Case Rules	$470
Civil Litigation Defense	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Civil Litigation Defense^1,2	$2,000 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,700 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules
Incompetency Defense^1,2	$2,000 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,700 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules
Criminal Defense	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Traffic Ticket	Paid in Full	$255
Serious Traffic Matters (Resulting in Suspension or Revocation of License)²	Paid in Full Subject to Managed Case Rules	$425
Administrative Proceeding (Resulting in Suspension or Revocation of License)²	Paid in Full Subject to Managed Case Rules	$255
Misdemeanor Defense^1,2	$2,000 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,700 maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules
Additional Benefits	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalGUARD Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Discounted Contingency Fees⁴	Included	N/A
Financial Advisor³	Included	N/A
Mediation³	Included	N/A
Identity Theft Assistance³	Included	N/A

¹Some limitations may apply.

²Subject to managed case rules.

³Additional benefits

⁴Discounted Rate

Managed Case Rules require the following:

Member and/or Covered Family Member must secure a confirmation letter from the Member Service Center prior to proceeding with an attorney.
The attorney must provide a written estimate of fees reflecting his or her best judgment as to the likely conduct of the case.
We will set a maximum attorney fee that takes into account the reasonable level of reimbursement 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 Covered Family Member.

Defintions

Definitions

“REIMBURSEMENT ADMINISTRATOR” - means Co-ordinated Benefit Plans L.L.C; or its subsidiary.

“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; or the Member owns a business that will continue in operation after death; or the Member wants to put restrictions on what heirs may do with the property; or 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; or the Member thinks that someone will challenge the will; or the Member wants to exclude any lawful dependents.

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

“COVERED FAMILY MEMBER” – means 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 and are primarily dependent upon the Member for support.

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

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

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

“INTERNET PURCHASE” - A purchase of goods or services whose purchase value is over $200.00 at the time of purchase by a Member and/or Covered Family Member from a website on the worldwide web.

“LEGAL PLAN ADMINISTRATOR” – LegalEASE, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or agents, including third party organizations and their affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or agents, hired by LegalEASE to perform services under this group policy / Certificate of Coverage.

“MEMBER” - refers to the individual who is associated with the Policyholder and who has paid or a premium has been paid on his/her behalf and who meets the eligibility requirements for Covered Services as defined by the Policyholder.

“MEMBER SERVICE CENTER” - means the service location established to help make full use of the certificate benefits.

“NON-PARTICIPATING ATTORNEY” - means an attorney not retained by Legal Plan 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 Legal Plan Administrator to provide covered legal services at the amount shown in the Schedule of Benefits.

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

“WE”, “US”, “OUR” AND “COMPANY” - means the name of the underwriter indicated on the first page of this Certificate of Coverage.

Covered Services

The Effective Date of this endorsement is the Effective Date of the Policy/Certificate to which this endorsement is attached. This endorsement is made a part of the Policy/Certificate to which it is attached. This endorsement is subject to all of the provisions and limitations of the Policy/Certificate. If there is a conflict between the Policy/Certificate and the endorsement, the terms of the endorsement will govern. The following is a list of Covered Services available, in addition to the services described in your Policy/Certificate of Coverage.

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Financial Helpline

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

LEGAL PROTECTION PLAN

The following Covered Services are covered at a flat rate or discount as shown below, when performed by a Participating Attorney.

Discounted Contingency Fees:

When state laws set contingency fees: Lesser of 10% less than state law maximum fee or the Participating Attorney’s usual fee.

When state laws do not set contingency fee: Maximum of 29% if settled before trial, 36% if trial is conducted, or40% after an appellate brief is filed.

Contingency rate discount applies in those cases where attorneys customarily take a case on a contingency fee, (an agreed upon portion of any recovery), depending on the outcome of the case.

MEDIATION

Consultation Services:

Members receive one free thirty minute consultation with a licensed mediator every quarter. Topics include: domestic disputes, divorce or child custody proceedings, consumer problems, medical bill, warranties, loan

disputes, auto accidents.

Mediation Counseling Assistance:

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. These services are designed to help Members deal with the increase in resolution pace.

Discounted Mediation Services:

Member receives a 10% discount on Participating Attorney’s normal mediation fees. This includes hourly rates and flat fees. However, this does not apply to contingency fees.

Advice and Consultation

LegalEASE Helpline:

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

Initial Law Office Consultation:

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

Review of Simple Documents:

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

Miscellaneous Law Office Services

Legal Services for any Non-Excluded Legal Matter:

This benefit will cover any legal services needed by the Member or Covered Family Member for review or preparation of documents, or any other service required on any legal matters not listed as a covered benefit or exclusion under this Policy.

Consumer Matters

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

Life Insurance Claim:

Assistance to Members in securing life insurance proceeds (not including life insurance provided as an employee benefit) when a Member and/or Covered Family Member is a beneficiary of a life insurance policy.

This service 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. (Attorney may not be permitted to attend court hearings in some jurisdictions).

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Mail Order or Internet Purchase Dispute:

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

This benefit is limited to one purchase per year.

Bank Fee Dispute:

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

This benefit is limited to one dispute per year.

First-time Vehicle Buyer:

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

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

Vehicle Repair and Lemon Law Litigation:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Cell Phone Contract Dispute:

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

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Warranty Dispute:

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

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Estate Planning

Will or Codicil Preparation:

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

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

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

Living Will and/or Health Care Power of Attorney:

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

This 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 does not include tax planning or tax advice related to the trust or the Member’s situation before and after the trust is prepared.

This 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.

Residential Matters

Real Estate Sale, Purchase or Refinancing of Primary Residence:

The services of an attorney for the purchase, sale, or refinancing of a Member’s primary residence (where Member has resided or intends to reside for twenty-seven (27) weeks or more per year). This service includes the review or preparation of closing documents and/or attendance by the Member’s attorney at closing in situations when it is customary to do so. This 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.

Vacation or Investment Home Purchase, Sale or Refinancing:

The services of an attorney for the purchase, sale, or refinancing of a Member’s vacation or investment residence (where Member has not resided or does not intend to reside for twenty-seven (27) weeks or more per year). This service includes the review or preparation of closing documents and/or attendance by the attorney at closing in situations when it is customary to do so. This 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 properties are not included. This benefit does not include any fees or costs other than those related to the attorney’s review of the purchase/sale documents.

This benefit is limited to one closing per year.

Tenant Dispute:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Tenant Security Deposit Dispute:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Financial Matters

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.

Bankruptcy:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Foreclosure:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Tax Audit:

Includes the services of an attorney (but not accounting services) during a personal (non-business related) tax audit process required by federal and state tax authorities and negotiations relating to it. This 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.

Family Matters

Separation, Divorce, Civil Annulment:

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

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

Name Change:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Guardianship/Conservatorship:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Government Agency/Stepparent Adoption:

Legal representation for a Member and/or Covered Family Member of up to the maximum shown in the Schedule of Benefits in a 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 hours of attorney time and involves disputed issues.

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 Covered Family Member in any juvenile court proceeding, provided the child’s interest is not in conflict with the Member’s and/or Covered Family Member’s interest. This benefit does not cover any matter that falls outside the jurisdiction of juvenile court or any matter that may be considered a felony.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Civil Litigation Defense

Civil Litigation Defense:

Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member who is a named defendant in a civil lawsuit (non-business related), up to and including the trial thereof. This 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/Covered Family Member has or is required by law to have insurance.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Incompetency Defense:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Criminal Defense

Traffic Tickets:

Services related to the representation of the Member and/or Covered Family Member in defense of any traffic ticket except driving under influence or vehicular homicide, including court hearings, negotiation with the prosecutor, trial, and counseling and preparing Member for self-representation at any hearings if chosen. This benefit does cover violations related to a commercial driver’s license.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Serious Traffic Matters:

Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member who is charged by governing authorities with moving traffic violation(s) and conviction could result in suspension or revocation of Member’s and/or Covered Family Member’s drivers’ license. This benefit does not cover violations related to a commercial driver’s license.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Administrative Proceeding:

Services related to the representation of a Member and/or Covered Family Member in an administrative proceeding relating to the suspension or revocation of driving privileges. This benefit does not cover suspension or revocation of a commercial driver’s license.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Misdemeanor Defense:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

Obtaining Services

Claim for Benefits

1. Members must call the Member Service Center to confirm eligibility and coverage prior to consulting with any attorney. The Member Service Center will assign a Participating Attorney to provide services relative to the matter. Failure to notify the Member Service Center within thirty (30) days following consultation with an attorney may result in a denial of benefits.

2. To obtain benefits under the Managed Case Rules:

Members and/or Covered Family Member must secure a confirmation letter from the Member Service Center prior to proceeding with an attorney.The attorney must provide a written estimate of fees reflecting his or her best judgment as to the likely conduct of the case.We will set a maximum attorney fee that takes into account the reasonable level of reimbursement for the proceeding and the proposed litigation strategy. Fees as a result of services in excess of the maximum attorney fee are the responsibility of the Member and/or Covered Family Member.

3. Members actively receiving services must remain enrolled and continue to pay premium hereunder. All benefits will be subject to subrogation and coordination of benefit rules.

4. Upon completion of a Covered Service, the Member and/or Covered Family Member will be required by the Participating Attorney to sign a confirmation of completion. Failure to sign the confirmation may result in denial of the claim and the Member/ Covered Family Member will be responsible for all legal fees.

5. If the Member and/or Covered Family Member pays for pre-authorized services provided by a Non-Participating Attorney, the Member must submit a reimbursement form (provided by Member Service Center) accompanied by an original itemized bill, proof of payment and supporting documentation sufficient to demonstrate the work completed in the matter within sixty (60) days after incurring the legal fees. Benefits provided to the Member and/or Covered Family Member for Covered Services are subject to the maximum as shown in the Schedule of Benefits.

6. Upon receipt of the submitted claim a satisfaction survey will be sent to the Member. In the event that a survey form is not received, Members may contact the Member Service Center at (888) 416-4313 to request a form.

Complaint Resolution Procedure

If, at any point, a Member has a complaint about the services provided either by the Member Service Center or the Participating Attorney a complaint may be registered by calling (888) 416-4313. The matter will be escalated to the Quality Assurance Team for resolution. In the event that a satisfactory resolution is not reached the Member has the option to file a complaint with the Massachusetts Division of Insurance

Any dispute or controversy arising between the Insurer and any Attorney or Member whose Certificate (group)/Policy (individual) has been canceled or to whom the Insurer has refused to issue a Policy/Certificate or between any Attorney and a Member may request a hearing in writing to the Massachusetts Division of Insurance commissioner within thirty (30) days after such dispute or controversy arises. The commissioner or his designee will hear such party or parties within (30) thirty days after receipt of the written request, and will give written notice of the time and place of the hearing no sooner than fifteen (15) days from the date. The hearing will be an adjudicatory hearing as defined in chapter thirty A. The commissioner or his designee will issue a decision within thirty (30) days after the hearing.

You may contact the Division of Insurance to obtain information on companies, rights or complaints at (877)-563-4467. Or visit the website to obtain a complaint form at http://www.mass.gov/doi.

In addition, a Member may also submit a complaint for review by the Board of Bar Overseers. The Board of Bar Overseers investigates and evaluates complaints against Attorneys. Complaints are initially handled by the

Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) of the Office of the Bar Counsel. Complaint forms can be obtained by calling the Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) at (617) 728-8750. Please note that

complaints cannot be accepted via electronic mail due to confidentiality requirements. Completed complaint forms, or questions regarding the process, should be directed to following address:

Office of the Bar Counsel

99 High Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02110

(617) 728-8750

Disputes Between Member and Covered Family Member

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

If two or more Covered 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; any matters involving a government (domestic or foreign) entity or agency except as specifically described under Covered Services; farm related issues; matters involving commercial or rental property transactions, including the purchase, sale or lease of investment or income-producing property. A two-family house, whether or not used by the Member as his or her primary residence, is deemed an investment or income-producing property.

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

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 the group 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 group policy / Certificate of Coverage.

The Certificate of Coverage 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.

Where there are specific hours or dollar amounts provide in this Certificate of Coverage, 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.

General Provisions

Attorney-Client Relationship

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

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

By using legal services benefits that are provided under the group policy / Certificate of Coverage, the Members agree that neither We, nor the Policyholder, nor any other person involved in the marketing or administration of the group policy, 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 Service Center and notify the representative of his/her intention to use a Non-Participating Attorney for a Covered Service. The Member Service Center will send the Member a claim form to request reimbursement. The Member’s reimbursement will be based on the reimbursement schedule as shown in the Schedule of Benefits. Reimbursement for a Non-Participating Attorney will not be less than the negotiated amount for a Participating Attorney. If a Member already has an attorney at the time he/she becomes a Member, the Legal Plan Administrator can offer to negotiate with the attorney on behalf of the Member, but will not guarantee the Plan Discounted Rate will be accepted by the attorney or offered by the Legal Plan Administrator.

Legal Terminology

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

Coverage Territory

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

Termination and Cancellation of Coverage

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

a. Cancellation or termination of the group policy;

b. If applicable, the Member fails to re-enroll;

c. The Member is no longer associated with Policyholder; or

d. The last day of the period for which premium was paid on behalf of a Member, if a premium is not paid when due, subject to the Grace Period provision.

Coverage provided to a Covered 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 qualify as a Covered Family Member as defined.

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

Grace Period

The Policy provides the Policyholder a grace period of thirty-one (31) days after the premium due date to remit the premium that is due and unpaid on behalf of a covered Member. During the grace period, the 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. The Policyholder shall remain liable for the pro-rata portion of all premiums that accrue for the period this Policy is in effect.

Portability

The Member may continue this insurance by electing the option of portability when the Member no longer qualifies as an employee of the Policyholder or as a Member of the group to which the group policy is issued. The Member must apply for portability within sixty (60) days of this disqualifying event and make arrangements for premium payment. Portability coverage will take effect, subject to payment of the initial premium, as of the date the Member’s coverage under the group policy terminates. Credit will be given for any applicable Waiting Period based upon the number of months coverage was in force for the Member under the group policy.

Conformed to Statute

Any terms of the group policy / Certificate of Coverage that 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 group policy / Certificate of Coverage 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

A legal plan backed by a strong partnership.

We believe you deserve to feel prepared and confident when facing a legal matter. Through a strong partnership, Nationwide and LegalEASE offer LegalGUARD, a robust product offering that protects members when it matters most. How we do it is by providing an in-depth pool of resources to accommodate your legal needs. 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.

For more than 40 years, LegalEASE has established one of the oldest and most comprehensive networks of attorneys in the legal industry. With more than 17,000 participating plan attorneys, LegalEASE specializes in matching attorneys specific to client needs, when it matters most. For more information, visit LegalEASE.

Nationwide partnered with LegalEASE to provide members with solutions that offer support and protection from unexpected legal issues. At Nationwide, we put our members first, because we don't have shareholders.

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor’s. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, commercial, homeowners and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; banking and mortgages; specialty health; pet, motorcycle, boat and farm insurance. For more information, visit Nationwide.com.