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Benefits Proudly Offered to Rain Forest Alliance Employees

Be fully prepared and confident

with LegalEASE

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

Product Administered By: LegalEASE

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

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

With a LegalEASE plan, you get:

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

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

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

Protect your family’s future, with LegalEASE.

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

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

Coverage

The Value of a LegalEASE Plan.

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

Home and Residential
Financial and Money Matters
Consumer
Auto and Driving
Family and Personal
Civil Lawsuits
Estate planning and wills

LegalEASE Plan Coverage

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

Plan Cost

The LegalEASE Plan is $16.17 monthly, via payroll deduction.

Who's Covered?

The Member’s lawful spouse and Your 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 You for support.

Plan Coverages
Advice and Consultation	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
LegalEASE Helpline	Covered	Not Applicable
Initial Law Office Consultation one hour per calendar quarter	Covered	Not Applicable
Review of Simple Documents Review of documentation up to 6 pages	Covered	Not Applicable
Financial Advisor	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Financial Helpline	Covered	Not Applicable
Identity Theft Prevention/Recovery Assistance	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Advice and Consultation	Covered	Not Applicable
Miscellaneous Law Office Services	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Discounted Legal Services for any non-excluded legal matter	25% discount on Participating Attorney’s hourly rates	Not Applicable
Consumer Matters	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
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 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $65 $60
Life Insurance Claim	Covered subject to Managed Case Rules*	$2,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules*
Consumer Dispute	Covered	$600
Small Claims Court Representation	Covered up to 2 hours	$120
Identity Theft Defense	Covered	$850
Estate Planning	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Simple Will or Codicil	Covered	$90
Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive	Covered	$55
Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney	Covered	$55
Probate of Small Estate	Covered up to 2 Hours	$120
Elder Matters	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Will Preparation	Covered	$80
Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive	Covered	$55
Durable Financial Power of Attorney	Member co-pay $45 per document	Not Applicable
Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney	Member co-pay $45 per document	Not Applicable
Residential Matters	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Purchase of primary residence	Covered	$490
Sale of Primary Residence	Covered	$365
Refinancing of Primary Residence	Covered	$385
Tenant Dispute	Covered subject to Managed Case Rules*	$2,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules*
Financial Matters	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Debt Collection Defense: Pre-Litigation Defense	Covered	$425
Debt Collection Defense: Trial Defense	Covered	$850
Foreclosure	Covered	$680
Tax Audit	Covered subject to Managed Case Rules*	$2,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules*
Family Matters	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Separation, Divorce, Civil Annulment: Uncontested Separation Consent/Default Divorce Uncontested Divorce	Covered up to 10 hours	$595
Contested Divorce	Covered up to 28.5 hours	$2,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules*
Post-Divorce Proceedings	Covered up to 28.5 hours	$2,000 maximum subject to Managed Case Rules*
Name Change	Covered	$255
Uncontested Guardianship/Conservatorship	Covered	$400
Uncontested Governmental Agency Adoption	Covered	$365
Uncontested Stepparent Adoption	Covered	$365
Juvenile Court Proceedings	Covered	$470
Civil Litigation Defense	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Civil Litigation Defense	Covered subject to Managed Case Rules*	$2,000 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	In Network Coverage	Out of Network Coverage
Traffic Ticket	Covered	$425
Serious Traffic Matter (resulting in suspension or revocation of license)	Covered	$425
Administrative Proceeding (Resulting in Suspension or Revocation of License)	Covered	$300

Limitations Apply

The policy language listed herein is intended to provide a general overview of a typical LegalEASE policy. Please see your LegalEASE policy for specific coverage amounts and exclusions.

Exclusions

This Policy excludes benefits for the following: Appellate court proceedings, class actions, interventions, derivative action and amicus curiae filings. The preparation and filing of individual, partnership or estate tax returns, appellate or administrative proceedings related to tax returns, litigation before the U.S. Tax Court, U.S. Court of Claims or any other federal, state or other courts with respect to tax matters. Matters relating to securities, trademark or patent matters; business or commercial interests, including, but not limited to, professional, partnership and/or corporate matters; matters involving the law or laws of jurisdictions other than the United States and its territories except as specifically described under Covered Services; any matters involving a government (domestic or foreign) entity or agency except as specifically described under Covered Services; farm related issues; matters involving commercial or rental property transactions, including the purchase, sale or lease of investment or income-producing property. Legal services that are fully paid for or provided at no cost by any governmental agency, organization or insurance company. Matters that the attorney deems frivolous, spurious, harassing, or unethical (collectively referred to as “frivolous”) or otherwise prohibited by the Model Rules of Professional Conduct of the state in which the attorney is licensed. Costs associated with covered legal services, including but not limited to, all fines, court costs, penalties, sanctions, expert witness fees, bonds, bail bonds, attorney fees, exhibits, deposition costs, filing fees, transcripts, postage, telephone, photocopying, recording fees, messengers, judgments, jury fees, court reporter fees, investigative costs and all other incidental and out-of-pocket legal and litigation costs. Any services on behalf of a Covered Family Member against the interests of the Member. Any employment-related matter. This includes, but is not limited to, any dispute involving the Member’s employer or its affiliates, their officers or directors, the Member’s employee benefit plans, credit unions, programs or arrangements sponsored by an employer, or cases involving workers’ compensation, unemployment compensation, sex harassment, age discrimination, etc. Any dispute or proceeding against the following persons or entities, their officers, directors, employees, or agents: any person or entity involved in the sale, marketing, administration or other processes related to this Policy; Legal Plan Administrator or its subsidiaries; Claims Administrator or its subsidiaries; Policyholder; Member’s employer; LegalEASE and it’s parents, subsidiaries or any affiliated or successor company, plan underwriter or reinsurer; Plan Sponsor; or any Participating and/or Non-Participating Attorney, if the dispute or proceeding pertains to services provided under the Policy. The Policy will not provide benefits in connection with pre-existing matters, which includes any matter where the Member and/or Covered Family Member is on notice as to a pending legal dispute or has previously contacted an attorney, except when prior coverage under another Legal Plan provided by the Policyholder can be demonstrated. Where there are specific hours or dollar amounts provide in this Policy, or where a maximum is set under the Managed Case Rules, the Member will be responsible for all attorney fees incurred over the maximum. Additional exclusions related to each benefit are included in the Covered Services.

Definitions

DEFINITIONS

“CLAIMS ADMINISTRATOR” - means LegalEASE; or its subsidiary.

“COMPLEX WILL” – means:

(a) You have a significant net worth and will benefit from tax planning, or

(b) the estate is subject to current state or federal estate taxation; or

(d) You want to put restrictions on what heirs may do with the property; or

(e) You want to leave money to someone in a trust because the person cannot manage his or her own affairs (such as a mentally handicapped child), or

(f) You want the property to be managed by a trustee for a period of time past the child’s age of majority, to age 25 or 30, for example; or

(g) You think that someone will challenge the will; or

(h) You want to exclude any lawful dependents.

The inclusion of a pour-over provision in a will does not, by itself, make a will complex.

VSC_LP_B1_DEF_CW (202103)

“COVERED FAMILY MEMBER” - means Your spouse and Your 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 You for support.

VSC_LP_B1_DEF_CFM-STD (202103)

“EFFECTIVE DATE” - means the date Your coverage hereunder begins.

“ELIGIBLE PARENT” – means Your or Covered Spouse’s parents, regardless of age. It includes, biological parents, step-parents and adoptive parents.

VSC_LP_B1_DEF_EP (202103)

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

VSC_LP_B1_DEF_HCC (202103)

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

VSC_LP_B1_DEF_HCPOA (202103)

“LEGAL PLAN ADMINISTRATOR” – LegalEASE,

(a) its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or

(b) agents, including third party organizations and their affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or

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

VSC_LP_B1_DEF_LW (202103)

“MEMBER” - refers to the individual who

(a) is associated with the Policyholder and/or Plan Sponsor,

(b) has either paid a premium or had a premium paid on his or her behalf, and

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

“NON-PARTICIPATING ATTORNEY” - means an attorney not contracted by the Legal Plan Administrator who:

· is selected and

· paid by the You

to provide covered legal services.

Covered legal services are provided up to the maximum amount shown under the Non-Participating Attorney column of the Schedule.

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

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

“PLAN SPONSOR” - means an organization other than the Policyholder or the Your employer that makes coverage hereunder available.

“POLICY” - means the Group Legal Expense Insurance Policy and the Certificate of Coverage.

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

“YOU” AND “YOUR” – means Member.

VSC_LP_B1 (202103)

“WAITING PERIOD” – means the period after the Effective Date during which certain benefits as shown in the Schedule may not be used. This includes any matter that arises prior to the end of the Waiting Period.

VSC_LP_B1_DEF_WP (202103)

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

COVERED SERVICES

In consideration of payment and receipt by Us of the applicable premium, all Covered Services are available to You and all Covered Family Members, except as specifically noted below. The following Covered Services are provided when You use a Participating Attorney. The Schedule chart shows the reimbursement schedule when You use a Non-Participating Attorney.

VSC_LP_C1 (202103)

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, except those specifically excluded.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_000-2 (202103)

Initial Law Office Consultation:

Office consultations with an attorney on any personal legal problem, except those specifically excluded.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_001 (202103)

Review of Simple Documents:

This benefit includes:

(a) attorney review,

(b) verbal explanations of the meaning or impact of any form or document, or

of up to the maximum number of pages as shown in the Schedule.

This benefit does not include a written analysis of any form or document.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_002 (202103)

Miscellaneous Law Office Services

Discounted Legal Services for any Non-Excluded Legal Matter:

This benefit will cover any legal services to

(a) review and/or prepare documents, or

(b) any other service required on any legal matters not listed as a Covered Service or Exclusion.

This benefit may not be used to extend the coverage for any other service shown in the Schedule beyond the limits of coverage.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_004-2 (202103)

Consumer Matters

Document Preparation:

Preparation of any of the following documents:

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_005 (202103)

· Simple Deed (excluding those reviewed or prepared under the real estate benefit) This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_210-3 (202103)

· Promissory Note: This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_220-3 (202103)

· Consumer Dispute Correspondence: This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_230-3 (202103)

· Installment Sales Agreement: This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_240-3 (202103)

· Simple Affidavit: This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_250-3 (202103)

· General Power of Attorney: This benefit is limited to one use per year and can be used for either a General, Limited, or Durable Financial Power of Attorney.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_310-3 (202103)

· Lease Agreement (for You/Covered Family Member as a tenant only). This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_320-3 (202103)

· Time Share Agreement: This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_330-3 (202103)

Life Insurance Claim:

Assistance in securing life insurance proceeds when You are a beneficiary of a life insurance policy.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_340-2 (202103)

Consumer Dispute:

Consultation or representation in a dispute relating to consumer goods and services (not directly or indirectly related to

(a) real estate construction or renovation, or

(b) landlord/tenant disputes).

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_360-4 (202103)

Small Claims Court Representation:

Consultation and/or representation for a 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.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_390-4 (202103)

Identity Theft Defense:

Services related to Your representation regarding potential creditor actions resulting from identity theft, and attorney services as needed to contact:

(a) creditors,

(b) credit bureaus and

It also provides defense services for specific creditor actions over disputed accounts.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_395-2 (202103)

Estate Planning

Will Preparation: Attorney shall prepare a will or codicil and discuss the legal requirements for signing the will. This benefit does not cover Complex Wills. For a definition of Complex Wills, please see the Definitions section.

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

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_400-2 (202103)

Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive/Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney:

This benefit covers the preparation of up to 2 of any of the following documents as defined in the Definitions section per Member/Covered Family Member:

(a) Living Will

(b) Health Care Directive

(d) Health Care Power of Attorney

(e) Medical Power of Attorney

The titles of the above documents may vary by state. When state law allows the information contained in any two or more of the above mentioned documents to be combined into one document, then the benefit covers the preparation of only one document and cannot be combined to increase the total allowed benefit.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_440/450-4 (202103)

Probate of Small Estate:

The service of an attorney for the probate of a small estate up to the maximum as shown in the Schedule. The estate must not be subject to current state or federal estate taxation.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_470 (202103)

Elder Matters

Elder Parent Will Preparation:

Each Eligible Parent may receive one Simple Will per year at no charge. The attorney will prepare the document and discuss the legal requirements for signing the will. This benefit does not cover Complex Wills. For a definition of Complex Wills, please see the Definitions section.

This benefit is limited to one use per year per Eligible Parent.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_401-2 (202103)

Elder Parent Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive:

Each Eligible Parent may request one Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive per year at no charge. For a definition of Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive, please see the Definitions section. The attorney will prepare the documents as authorized by state law and discuss the legal requirements for signing the Living Will/Health Care or Advance Directive. The titles of the above documents may vary by state. When state law allows the information contained in any two or more of these documents to be combined into one document, then the benefit covers the preparation of both documents, and can be combined to increase the total allowed benefit.

This benefit is limited to one document/set of documents per year per Eligible Parent.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_441-2 (202103)

Elder Parent Durable Financial Power of Attorney:

Each Eligible Parent may request one Durable Financial Power of Attorney per year at the co-pay rate shown in the Schedule. For a definition of Durable Financial Power of Attorney, please see the Definitions section. The attorney will prepare the documents as authorized by state law and discuss the legal requirements for signing the Durable Financial Power of Attorney. The titles of the above documents may vary by state.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_311-4 (202103)

Elder Parent Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney:

Each Eligible Parent may request one Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney per year at the co-pay rate shown in the Schedule. For a definition of Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney, please see the Definitions section. The attorney will prepare the documents as authorized by state law and discuss the legal requirements for signing the Health Care or Medical Power of Attorney. The titles of the above documents may vary by state. When state law allows the information contained in any two or more these documents to be combined into one document, then the benefit covers the preparation of only one document and can not be combined to increase the total allowed benefit.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_451-4 (202103)

Residential Matters

Real Estate Sale, Purchase or Refinancing of Primary Residence:

The services of an attorney for the sale, or purchase or refinancing of a primary residence (where You have resided or intends to reside for twenty-seven (27) weeks or more per year).

This service includes:

(a) the review and/or preparation of closing documents and/or

(b) attendance by the attorney at closing in situations when it is customary for the attorney to do so.

This benefit does not include:

(a) services performed by or for a title company, or

(b) 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 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.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_500/530/550-4 (202103)

Tenant Dispute:

Representation of You as a tenant in a dispute with Your landlord. This benefit does not include:

(a) representation for a tenant in a dispute with other tenants or

(b) for a tenant acting in his/her capacity as sublessee or sublessor.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_560-4 (202103)

Financial Matters

Debt Collection Defense:

The defense of any dispute involving personal (non-business related) debt.

This benefit includes:

(a) correspondence,

(b) negotiating with creditors to arrange a repayment schedule,

(d) negotiating settlement after a complaint is filed.

This service does not include:

(a) defense against execution of a court-ordered judgment or

(b) efforts to vacate or set aside a judgment.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_600/620-2 (202103)

Foreclosure:

Defense of You in an action to foreclose on Your primary residence (where You have resided or intends to reside twenty-seven (27) weeks or more per year.)

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_640-2 (202103)

Tax Audit:

This benefit includes:

(a) the services of an attorney (but not accounting services) during a personal (non-business related) tax audit required by federal and

(b) 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.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_650-2 (202103)

Family Matters

Separation, Divorce, Civil Annulment:

Legal representation of You for up to the maximum shown on the Schedule in an uncontested separation or civil annulment; consent or default divorce, uncontested divorce or Contested 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:

(a) services in excess of the maximum shown on the Schedule, You must pay the attorney’s fee for services in excess of the maximum;

(b) contested matters in which case the Member must pay the attorney’s fee for services, unless the coverage includes contested matters and the benefit shall be in accordance with the Schedule; or

A contested separation, divorce or civil annulment requires:

(a) more than five hours of attorney time and

(b) involves disputed issues and

This benefit is limited to one use per year (representation seeking or defending against interim order shall constitute a separate use).

This benefit applies to the Member and Covered Family Members only for actions not involving the Member as an opposing party.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_710/720/730-4 (202103)

Post-Divorce Proceedings:

Legal representation of You for up to the maximum listed on the Schedule in a contested or uncontested post-divorce proceeding. An uncontested post-divorce proceeding does not involve significant disputed issues and the parties resolve any issues prior to any court supervised proceeding.

The benefit for uncontested matters does not provide any coverage of an attorney’s fee for:

(a) services in excess of the maximum listed on the Schedule; You must pay the attorney’s fee for services in excess of the maximum;

(b) contested matters in which case You must pay the attorney’s fee for services, unless the coverage includes contested matters and the benefit shall be in accordance with the Schedule.

A contested post-divorce proceeding requires:

(a) more than five hours of attorney time,

(b) involves disputed issues and

This benefit includes custody, support, and alimony proceedings.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

This benefit applies to the Member only.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_733-3 (202103)

Name Change:

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

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_740-3 (202103)

Uncontested Guardianship/Conservatorship:

Services required to establish You/Covered Family Member as the guardian(s) or conservator(s) of a family member of either You 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.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_750-6 (202103)

Uncontested Government Agency/Stepparent Adoption:

Legal representation up to the maximum shown in the Schedule in an uncontested:

(a) governmental agency or

(b) stepparent adoption.

An uncontested adoption does not involve significant disputed issues.

This benefit does not include:

(a) contested termination of parental rights;

(b) fees for a court-appointed attorney for the child; or

A contested adoption requires:

(a) more than five hours of attorney time and

(b) involves disputed issues.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_760/770-4 (202103)

Juvenile Court Proceeding:

Services related to the representation of Your/Covered Family Member’s dependent child in any juvenile court proceeding, provided the child’s interest is not in conflict with the Your 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.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_780-3 (202103)

Civil Matters

Civil Litigation Defense:

Services related to representation when You are named as defendant in a filed civil lawsuit (non-business related), up to and including the trial thereof. This benefit does not include: (a) any debt collection or family law matters; (b) lawsuits normally handled on a contingent fee basis; or (c) matters for which You have or are required by law to have insurance.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_800-2 (202103)

Discounted Contingency Fees:

Participating Attorneys will handle the matter at a maximum percentage of the gross award. It is Your responsibility to pay this fee and all costs.

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

(b) 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.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_840 (202103)

Mediation:

This benefit does not include the cost of the mediator’s services.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

This benefit applies to the Member only.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_850-2 (202103)

Traffic and Administrative Matters

Traffic Ticket:

Services related to representing You in defense of any traffic ticket except driving under influence or vehicular homicide, including:

(a) court hearings,

(b) negotiation with the prosecutor,

(d) counseling and preparing You for self-representation at any hearings if chosen.

This benefit does not cover violations related to a commercial driver’s license. This benefit does not apply to Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) violations/citations.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_810-3 (202103)

Serious Traffic Matter:

Services related to representing You when You are:

(a) charged by governing authorities with moving traffic violation(s) and

(b) conviction could result in suspension or revocation of a state-issued license permitting a person to drive a motor vehicle.

This benefit does cover violations related to a commercial driver’s license. This benefit does not apply to Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) violations/citations. This benefit cannot include expungements of misdemeanor convictions. This benefit does not include adjustments to probation or parole.

This benefit is limited to one use per year.

VSC_LP_C1_CS_M_900-2 (202103)

Administrative Proceeding:

Services related to representing You in an administrative proceeding relating to the:

(a) suspension or

(b) 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.

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OBTAINING BENEFITS

Claim for Benefits

1. You should call the Member Service Center to confirm the potentially applicable benefit(s) prior to consulting with any attorney. You/Covered Family Member must provide all information requested with respect to the circumstances of an insured event or service provided. 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, if such failure to provide timely notice has prejudiced Us in any way. Failure to provide notice within thirty (30) days will not invalidate or reduce an otherwise valid claim if it is shown not to be reasonably possible to give such notice within 30 days and that notice was given as soon as reasonably possible thereafter. Coverage applies to covered events which occur while the coverage is in effect. Any covered event which occurs prior to the effective date of coverage will be considered excluded and no benefits will apply.

You may reach the Member Service Center at:

5151 San Felipe, Suite 2300

Houston, TX 77056

888-416-4313

2. To confirm coverage for matters to which Managed Case Rules apply reference Managed Case Rules in the Schedule.

3. Members and/or Covered Family Members who are requesting services must remain enrolled and continue to pay premium hereunder.

4. Upon completion of a Covered Service, You/Covered Family Member may 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 You/Covered Family Member will be responsible for all legal fees.

5. If You/Covered Family Member pay for pre-authorized services provided by a Non-Participating Attorney, You must:

(a) submit a reimbursement form (provided by Member Service Center) accompanied by an original itemized bill,

(b) proof of payment and

sufficient to demonstrate the work completed in the matter within sixty (60) days after incurring the legal fees. Benefits provided to You/Covered Family Member for Covered Services are subject to the maximum as shown in the Schedule.

6. Payment by Us for Covered Services does not preclude the attorney (whether Participating or Non-Participating) from seeking and recovering attorney’s fees from an opposing party, where authorized by:

(a) law,

(b) court rule, or

at the attorney’s customary or prevailing rate.

If You/Covered Family Member receive reimbursement of attorney’s fees, then You/Covered Family Member agree to reimburse Us for payments issued.

Disputes Between Member and Covered Family Member

In the event that Your and one of the Covered Family Members are involved as adversaries in a dispute that is a Covered Service, only You 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.

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FINANCIAL ADVISOR

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

Financial Helpline

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

IDENTITY THEFT PREVENTION/RECOVERY ASSISTANCE

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

Advice and Consultation

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

Additional Benefits

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

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

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

EXCLUSIONS

The following benefits are excluded:

(a) Appellate court proceedings.

(b) Class actions.

(d) Malpractice proceedings.

(e) Actions in which punitive damages are being sought.

(f) Derivative actions and amicus curiae filings.

(g) The preparation and filing of:

(1) individual, partnership or estate tax returns,

(2) appellate or administrative proceedings related to tax returns,

(3) 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.

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

(i) 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.

(j) Costs associated with covered legal services. This includes, but not limited to, the following:

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, mediator or arbitrator fees. This also includes all other incidental and out-of-pocket legal and litigation costs.

(k) Any services on behalf of a Covered Family Member against Your interests.

(l) Any dispute or proceeding against the following persons or entities, their officers, directors, employees, or agents:

(1) any person or entity involved in the sale, marketing, administration or other processes related to the Policy;

(2) Legal Plan Administrator or its subsidiaries;

(3) Claims Administrator or its subsidiaries;

(4) Policyholder;

(5) Your employer;

(6) Virginia Surety Company, Inc. and it’s parents, subsidiaries or any affiliated or successor company, plan underwriter or reinsurer;

(7) Plan Sponsor; or any Participating and/or Non-Participating Attorney

if the dispute or proceeding pertains to services provided under the Policy.

(m) The Policy does not allow benefits listed under the Covered Services section to be combined for one legal matter.

(n) Where there are specific hours or dollar amounts provided in the Policy, or where a maximum is set under the Managed Case Rules, You will be responsible for all attorney fees incurred which exceed the maximum. Additional exclusions related to each benefit are included in the Covered Services.

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(o) Matters relating to: securities, trademark or patent matters; business or commercial interests, including, but not limited to the following:

(1) professional, partnership and/or corporate matters;

(2) matters arising out of Your/Covered Family Member’s role as an officer or director of an organization;

(3) matters involving the law or laws of jurisdictions other than the United States and its territories, except as specifically described under Covered Services;

(4) any matters involving a government (domestic or foreign) entity or agency except as specifically described under Covered Services;

(5) farm related issues.

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(o) 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 You/Covered Family Member as the primary residence, is deemed an investment or income-producing property.

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(p) Any employment-related matter. This includes, but is not limited to the following:

(1) any dispute involving

· Your employer or its affiliates,

· their officers or directors,

· Your employee benefit plans,

· credit unions,

· programs or arrangements sponsored by an employer, or

(2) cases involving:

· workers’ compensation,

· unemployment compensation,

· sex harassment, and

· age discrimination.

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(q) Except for consultation, the Policy will not provide benefits in connection with pre-existing matters. Pre-existing matters include any matter where You/Covered Family Member are on notice:

(1) as to a pending legal dispute or

(2) has previously contacted an attorney.

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GENERAL PROVISIONS

Attorney-Client Relationship

All attorneys are subject to the authority of the state Supreme Court and the state bar association of the state(s) where they are licensed to practice. You have the unrestricted right to choose an attorney. Your relationship with an attorney is privileged and strictly confidential. We will not interfere in:

(a) the attorney-client relationship or

(b) in the attorney’s independent exercise of his or her professional judgment.

Participating Attorneys are not certified specialists. Participating Attorneys are not agents or employees of either the Legal Plan Administrator or Us.

You shall authorize the Participating Attorney to provide the Legal Plan Administrator with:

(a) information and

(b) supporting documentation

on the number and type of services provided to You.

By using legal services benefits that are provided under the Policy, You agree that neither:

(a) We,

(b) the Policyholder,

involved in the marketing or administration of the Policy, shall have any liability for the:

(a) acts,

(b) errors or omissions

of an attorney providing services, in whole or in part.

Non-Participating Attorney Services

If You already have an attorney, You may prefer to use her/him as a Non-Participating Attorney. To do so, You must first contact the Member Service Center and notify the representative of Your intention to use a Non-Participating Attorney for a Covered Service. The Member Service Center will send You a claim form which must be completed and returned in order to request reimbursement. Your reimbursement will be based on the reimbursement schedule shown under the Non-Participating Attorney column of the Schedule. If You have a Non-Participating Attorney You would prefer to work with, the Legal Plan Administrator may elect to offer to negotiate with the attorney on Your behalf but cannot guarantee the Non-Participating Attorney will accept the Plan Discounted Rate.

Subrogation and Coordination of Benefits

All benefits will be subject to subrogation and coordination of benefit rules. For the purpose of subrogation, We may require You/Covered Family Member to assign all rights of recovery of legal fees to the extent that payment is made by Us. If an assignment is sought, You/Covered Family Member must cooperate in providing the assignment.

The Policy coordinates benefits as follows: when a claim is made, the primary plan pays its regular benefit first. A plan is primary when it:

1. covers Policyholder’s employee as insured rather than as a dependent

2. covers a child as dependent of the parent whose birthday occurs earliest in the calendar year, except when:

(a) parents are separated or divorced and parent with custody is not remarried: benefit of parent with custody is primary

(b) parents are divorced and parent with custody is remarried, the order of determination is:

(i) parent with custody

(ii) step-parent

(iii) parent without custody

If none of the above applies, the plan that has covered the insured the longest is primary, except if the insured is laid off or retired.

If You are entitled to receive legal services or reimbursement for legal services from any other person or organization, Our coverage will be excess.

Payment by Us for legal services under the Policy does not preclude Your attorney from seeking and recovering attorney fees from an opposing party, where authorized by law, court rule or contract, at the attorney’s usual and customary or prevailing rate. If You receive reimbursement of attorney’s fees, then You will reimburse Us for payments made under the Policy.

Legal Terminology

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

Premium Refund Provision

In the event that:

(a) the premium mode is other than monthly and

(b) the Group Policy is terminated or

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 the Group Policy;

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

(d) The Member fails to remit premium when due, subject to the statutory grace period.

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

(a) The Member’s coverage is cancelled or terminated; or

(b) The family member ceases to qualify as a Covered Family Member as defined in the Definitions section.

When coverage for a Member/Covered Family Member terminates Covered Services that would begin after the date such coverage ends will not be covered. However, Covered Services will continue until completed for any matter that is unresolved when coverage terminated for an additional ninety (90) days, then any further legal work between said Member/Covered Family Member and the Participating Attorney shall be outside the scope and coverage of the Policy. The Participating Attorney shall not be obligated to provide any benefits under the Policy and any further legal services shall be based upon an independent and separate fee agreement entered into, if at all, between the former Member/Covered Family Member and the attorney.

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

(a) Nonpayment of premium by Policyholder for covered Members;

(b) Discovery of fraud or material misrepresentation in the obtaining of the Group Policy or in the presentation of claim thereunder;

(c) Discovery of an act or omission, or a violation of any Group Policy condition; that substantially and materially increases the hazard insured against, and which occurred subsequent to inception of the current Group Policy period;

(d) A determination by the superintendent that continuation of the present premium volume of the Company would jeopardize the solvency or be hazardous to the interests of Policyholders of the Company, its creditors or the public;

(e) A determination by the superintendent that the continuation of the Group Policy would violate, or would place the Company in violation of, any provision of this chapter;

The Company shall provide written notice of cancellation to the Policyholder at least sixty (60) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation. If the Company cancels for non-payment of premium, the Company shall provide written notice of cancellation to the Policyholder at least fifteen (15) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation and the amount due. All notices shall state the reason for cancellation. The Policyholder is responsible for notifying the Members of cancellation.

The Policyholder may cancel for any reason by providing thirty (30) days written notice to Us.

Illegal Activity, Misrepresentation and Fraud

No misrepresentation shall avoid any contract of insurance or defeat recovery, thereunder, unless such misrepresentation was material. No misrepresentation shall be deemed material unless knowledge by the insurer of the facts misrepresented would have led to a refusal by the insurer to make such contract. We will not provide coverage if doing so would be in violation of any United States economic or trade sanction.

Conformed to Statute

Any terms herein that conflict with the statutes of the jurisdiction where issued are amended to conform to the statutes.

Assignment of Benefits

The benefits provided herein are not assignable.

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Coverage Territory

The coverage territory includes the United States and United States territories

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Portability

You may continue this insurance by electing the option of portability when You no longer qualify as

(a) an employee of the Policyholder or

(b) as a Member of the group

to which the Group Policy is issued.

You 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 Your coverage under the Group Policy terminates.

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Waiver of Premium

Upon Your death, coverage for the surviving Covered Family Members continues for the remainder of the current Group Policy term. We waive further premium payments during this time.

Upon You being called to active duty for a period of more than thirty (30) consecutive days (a) for the purposes of:

(b) military service or

of responding to a declared national emergency

coverage for the Covered Family Members will continue, without the payment of premium, for:

(a) the length of the Member’s absence and

(b) for so long as the Member remains eligible for benefits through the Policyholder.

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Non-Renewal of Group Policy

The Company shall provide written notice of non-renewal to the Policyholder at least forty-five (45) days, but no more than sixty (60) days, prior to the effective date of such non-renewal.

Grace Period

The Group Policy provides the Policyholder a grace period of thirty-one (31) days after the premium for covered Members’ due date to remit the premium that is due and unpaid. During the grace period, the Group 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 the Group Policy is in effect. Failure to remit premiums when due to the Us shall not constitute nonpayment of premium by You, if the Policyholder or sponsoring entity received Your premium in a timely manner and We have authorized the them to collect premiums from You.

Grievances

Should You have a dispute concerning Your coverage, payment or about a reimbursement, You should first contact LegalEASE Member Service Center at 888-416-4313. If the dispute is not resolved, You may contact Virginia Surety Company at 1-800-209-6206.

Nothing in this plan shall be construed to prevent You from making a complaint to the appropriate Appellate Division or other body designated by the Appellate Division to investigate complaints in accordance with Judiciary Law section 90, or to the appropriate disciplinary body in the state where the legal service is being provided.

Network

About the Network of Attorneys

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

Help Focus Infrastructure

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

Standards and Qualifications

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

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

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

Provider Standards of Care

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

Plan Providers agree to the following:

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

About

We are here to serve you...

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

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

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

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