FEES & FUNDING

Legal Expenses Insurance

You may already have insurance that helps cover the cost of legal advice or representation.

Some home, motor, travel, business and bank account insurance policies include legal expenses cover. This type of cover may assist with legal costs, depending on the type of dispute, the policy terms and whether the insurer agrees that the claim is covered.

What Is Legal Expenses Insurance?

Legal expenses insurance is cover that may pay some or all of your legal costs in certain types of legal dispute.

The cover is usually subject to the terms of your policy, any exclusions, the insurer’s approval and the prospects of success of your case.

Where Might You Find It?

Legal expenses cover is often included as an add-on or benefit within other insurance products.

  • Home insurance
  • Car insurance
  • Business insurance
  • Travel insurance
  • Premium bank accounts
  • Membership or professional association schemes

What Should You Check?

Policy Documents

Review your policy schedule, wording and any legal expenses section to see whether legal costs are covered.

Type of Claim

Check whether your type of legal matter is covered. Some policies only cover specific disputes, such as employment, property or contract claims.

Notification Requirements

Many policies require you to notify the insurer before taking steps or incurring legal costs.

Choice of Solicitor

Some policies may initially refer you to panel solicitors. Depending on the stage of the case, you may be able to request your own solicitor.

Before Your Appointment

Before your first meeting, it’s helpful to check whether you have legal expenses cover and bring or send us a copy of any relevant insurance documents.

Useful documents to provide

  • Your insurance policy schedule.
  • The full policy wording.
  • Any legal expenses insurance booklet or endorsement.
  • Correspondence with your insurer, if you’ve already contacted them.
  • Any claim reference number provided by the insurer.

Important Points

Having legal expenses insurance does not automatically mean your insurer will fund the case. The insurer may need to assess whether the matter falls within the policy, whether any exclusions apply and whether the case has reasonable prospects of success.

If cover is available, we can discuss the next steps with you and explain how this may affect funding, fees and ongoing case management.

Unsure Whether You Have Cover?

Check your policy documents before your appointment. If you’re not sure what the wording means, bring the documents with you and we’ll help you identify the relevant points.

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