Clone of Redfin

Welcome

Legal Insurance Plan Proudly Offered to Redfin Employees

Be fully prepared and confident

with LegalEASE

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

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 a LegalEASE benefits plan, 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 benefits plan 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 benefits plan. LegalEASE offers valuable benefits to shield your family and savings from unexpected legal issues.

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

Coverage

The Value of a LegalEASE Plan.

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

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

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

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

Plan Cost

The LegalEASE Plan is $18.90 monthly, via payroll deduction.

Who's Covered?

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

Schedule of Benefits
Advice and Consultation	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
LegalEASE Helpline	Covered	Not Applicable
Initial Law Office Consultation (One hour per calendar quarter)	Covered	Not Applicable
Review of Simple Documents (Up to 6 Pages)	Covered	Not Applicable
Financial Helpline	Covered	Not Applicable
Miscellaneous Law Office Services	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
	25% discount on Plan Attorney's Hourly Rate	Not Applicable
Consumer Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
DOCUMENT PREPARATION Simple Deed Promissory Note Consumer Dispute Correspondence Installment Sales Agreement Simple Affidavit General Power of Attorney Lease Agreement - Tenant only Time Share Agreement	Covered	$65 $55 $55 $55 $55 $55 $65 $55
Consumer Dispute	Covered	$600
Small Claims Court Representation	Covered Up To 2 Hours	$120
Mail Order or Internet Purchase Dispute	Covered Up To 5 Hours	$300
Bank Fee Dispute	Covered Up To 5 Hours	$300
First-time Vehicle Buyer	Covered Up To 5 Hours	$300
Vehicle Repair and Lemon Law Litigation	Covered Up To 5 Hours	$300
Cell Phone Contract Dispute Contract Review Up to 6 Pages Representation	Covered Covered Up To 5 Hours	$300
Warranty Dispute Warranty Review Up to 6 Pages Representation	Covered Covered Up To 5 Hours	$300
Health Care Coverage Dispute and Records Office Consultation up to 5 Hours Review of Health Care Policy Review/Preparation of Document up to 6 Pages	Covered Covered Up To 5 Hours Covered Up to 5 Hours	$300
Identity Theft Defense	Covered	$850
Estate Planning	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Will or Codicil	Covered	$80
Living Will / Health Care or Advanced Directive	Covered	$55
Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney	Covered	$55
Revocable or Irrevocable Living Trust Document	Covered	$310
Probate of Small Estate	Covered Up To 2 Hours	$120
Home and Residential Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Purchase of Primary Residence	Covered	$500
Sale of Primary Residence	Covered	$365
Refinancing of Primary Residence	Covered	$385
Vacation or Investment Home Purchase/Sale/Refinancing	Covered	$385
Tenant Dispute	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Tenant Security Deposit Dispute	Covered	$850
Landlord Dispute with Tenant Pre-litigation activities Trial Representation	Covered Up To 10 Hours	$595
Security Deposit Dispute with Tenant	Covered Up To 10 Hours	$595
Construction Defect Dispute	Covered	$425
Neighbor Dispute	Covered	$765
Noise Reduction Dispute	Covered	$765
Financial Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Debt Collection Defense Pre-litigation Defense Activities	Covered	$425
Debt Collection Defense Trial Defense	Covered	$850
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7 or 13)	Covered	$935
Foreclosure	Covered	$680
Tax Audit	Covered	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Student Loan Refinancing / Collection Defense	Covered Up To 7 Hours	$420
Family Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Uncontested Separation or Civil Annulment	Covered Up To 10 Hours	$595
Consent/Default Divorce	Covered Up To 10 Hours	$595
Uncontested Divorce	Covered Up To 10 Hours	$595
Contested Divorce (As Defined)	Covered Up To 28.5 Hours	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Post-Divorce Proceedings (As Defined)	Covered Up To 28.5 Hours	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Prenuptial Agreement	Covered	$680
Name Change	Covered	$255
Guardianship/Conservatorship	Uncontested: Covered Contested: Covered	$365 $765
Governmental Agency Adoption	Uncontested: Covered Contested: Covered	$365 $765
Stepparent Adoption	Uncontested: Covered Contested: Covered	$365 $765
Juvenile Court Proceeding	Covered	$470
Civil Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Civil Litigation Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Incompetency Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Discounted Contingency Fees	10% Discount on State Maximum, or a Maximum of 29% Pre-trial, 36% at Trial, or 40% in an Appeal	Not Applicable
Mediation	10% Discount on Mediator's Hourly Rates	Not Applicable
Criminal Defense	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Traffic Ticket	Covered	$215
Serious Traffic Matters (Resulting In Suspension or Revocation of License)	Covered	$425
Administrative Proceeding (Regarding Suspension or Revocation of License)	Covered	$255
Misdemeanor Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
DUI/DWI Defense	Covered Subject to Managed Case Rules*	$1,700 Maximum Subject to Managed Case Rules*
Additional Benefits	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Financial Advisor	Included	Not Applicable
Identity Theft Assistance	Included	Not Applicable

Limitations may apply.

* Managed Case Rules require the following:

In cases deemed by Us to be complex, Managed Case Rules may be used to approve additional coverage beyond the standard Participating Attorney maximum fees or to ensure that Non-Participating Attorney fees are reasonable and customary. Managed Case Rules provide protection for Members by limiting or preventing additional charges that Members would otherwise be responsible for. Managed Case Rules may be enacted prior to or after the initial consultation. Managed Case Rules require the following:

The Member should contact the Member Service Center prior to proceeding with an attorney. If the Member understands from the attorney that there may be additional charges beyond the covered charges under the Policy and the Member does not contact the Member Service Center prior to proceeding with the attorney, then the Member may be responsible for those additional charges beyond the covered charges under the Policy, even on a Paid In Full benefit.
If it is determined that the complexity of the case may require additional hours beyond the standard Participating Attorney maximum, or that the Non-Participating Attorney charges are higher than reasonable and customary fees, the attorney must provide a written estimate of fees reflecting his or her best judgment as to the likely cost of legal services based on the expected conduct of the case.
We will set a maximum attorney fee that takes into consideration 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.

Exclusions

The following benefits are excluded:

Appellate court proceedings, class actions, interventions, malpractice proceedings, actions in which punitive damages are being sought, derivative actions 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 multi-family residence, whether or not used by the Member/Covered Family Member as his or her primary residence, is deemed an investment or incomeproducing

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 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 awarded as part of a judgment, exhibits, deposition costs, filing fees, transcripts, postage, telephone, photocopying, recording fees, messengers, judgments, jury fees, court reporter fees, investigative costs, arbitrator fees, 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, and age discrimination.

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 Policy; Legal Plan Administrator or its subsidiaries; Claims Administrator or its subsidiaries; Policyholder; Member’s employer; Virginia Surety Company, Inc. 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.

Except for consultation, the Policy will not provide benefits in connection with pre-existing matters, which includes any matter where the Member/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 provided in the Policy, or where a maximum is set under the Managed Case Rules, the Member will be responsible for all attorney fees incurred which exceed the maximum. Additional exclusions related to each benefit are included in the Covered Services.

Definitions

Definitions

“CLAIMS ADMINISTRATOR” - means Co-Ordinated Benefit Plans LLC; 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 or domestic partner and Member’s 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 for whom the required premium is paid where family coverage is optional.

“COVERED SPOUSE” - means the Member’s lawful spouse or domestic partner at the time the group policy is in effect and for whom the required premium is paid where spouse coverage is optional.

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

“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.

“WAITING PERIOD” – means the period after the Effective Date during which certain benefits as indicated in the Schedule of Benefits may not be used. This includes any matter where the Member and/or Covered Family Member is on notice as to a pending legal dispute or has contacted an attorney prior to the end of the Waiting Period.

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

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

Non-Participating Attorney Services

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

Legal Terminology

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

Coverage Period

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

Coverage Territory

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

Premium Refund Provision

In the event that the premium mode is other than monthly and the group policy is terminated or the Member elects to terminate the coverage, a pro-rata premium refund will be made in accordance with the insurance laws of the Policyholder’s state.

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 this Contract;

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

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

d. The Member fails to remit plan fees when due, subject to the grace period.

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 Contract. The Participating Attorney shall not be obligated to provide any benefits under the Contract and any further legal services shall be based upon an independent and separate fee agreement entered into, if at all, between the former Member and/or Covered Family Member and the attorney. If such an agreement is not entered into, then the Participating Attorney may withdraw from any further representation in accordance with applicable law and State Bar standards.

Conversion

The Member may continue this contract by converting to an individual contract subject to state availability when the Member no longer qualifies as an employee of the Contractholder or as a Member of the group to which this Contract is issued. The Member must apply for conversion within thirty-one (31) days of this disqualifying event and make arrangements for payment. Conversion coverage will take effect, subject to payment of the initial plan fees, as of the date the Member’s coverage under this Contract terminates.

Conformed to Statute

Any terms of the Contract 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 Contract are not assignable.

Assignment of Benefits

The benefits provided under this Contract are not assignable.

Entire Contract

This Contract, including the application and endorsements, if any, constitutes the entire contract.

Covered Services

In consideration of payment and receipt by Us of the applicable premium, all Covered Services are available to a Member and all Covered Family Members. 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.

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.

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.

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.

Complex Will Preparation: Participating Attorney shall prepare a complex will or codicil for Member or Covered 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 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/her self.

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. This benefit is limited to two closings 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.

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 courtordered 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 Benefits 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 the maximum shown on the Schedule of Benefits; 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 Policy provides coverage of contested matters and the benefit shall be in accordance with the Schedule of Benefits. A contested separation, divorce or civil annulment requires more than five 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-todecree 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 per Member/Covered Family Member.

Guardianship/Conservatorship: Services required to establish a Member and/or Covered Family Member as the guardian(s) or conservator(s) of a family member of either the Member or Covered Spouse. This benefit does not include fees for a court –appointed attorney for the child/conservatee. This benefit does not include contested matters. 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 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 hours of attorney time and involves disputed issues. If the amount of an attorney’s time for uncontested adoption exceeds the maximum shown in the Schedule of Benefits, or if the adoption becomes contested, coverage will terminate and the Member and/or Covered 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 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.

Criminal Defense

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 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 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.

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, or 40% 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.

Identity Theft Prevention/Recovery Assistance

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

Advice and Consultation: Telephone consultations (10 per year) with a Trained Identity Theft Recovery Specialist.

Additional Benefits

Personal Recovery Kit – designed to walk a victim of identity theft step-by-step through the process of recovery (designed to be utilized in conjunction with the consultations with the Recovery Specialist).
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.
Review of necessary recovery legal documents (up to 6 pages each).

Obtaining Benefits

Claim for Benefits

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.
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.
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.
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.
If the Member and/or Covered Family Member pays for pre-authorized services provided by a NonParticipating 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.

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.

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

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

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 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, 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 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.

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.