Frequently asked questions

  • Commercial (Business) LEI
How do I buy commercial legal expenses insurance?

Commercial legal expenses insurance is usually sold alongside other commercial insurance products and can be included as part of a wider commercial package policy wording, or sold individually with its own separate policy wording.

What will commercial legal expenses insurance pay for?

Dependant on the policy you have, commercial legal expenses insurance may pay for:

  • an appointed lawyer’s legal fees;
  • court fees;
  • expert witness costs;
  • the other side’s costs if you are unsuccessful;
  • certain compensation awards you are ordered to pay.
Can my business claim for a problem that started before I bought the policy?

No, you can’t claim for legal disputes that started before the date your cover began. And in some cases – for example, employment, contract and debt claims – you may not be covered for disputes arising within the first 90 or 180 days of the policy.

Can I claim for costs I’ve incurred before making a claim?

No – it’s important that you speak to us as soon as possible after a dispute arises so we can discuss the best way to proceed. We will not cover any costs you incur before we have agreed to cover your claim – for example, the cost of consulting your own lawyer.

Can I choose my own lawyer?

We’ll usually appoint a lawyer from one of our preferred law firms on the basis of their expertise to deal with your claim. However, there are instances where you have the right to choose your own lawyer – such as if court proceedings are issued or there’s a conflict of interest. It’s important to know that if you do choose your own lawyer we will only pay them the same amount as we would pay our preferred lawyers – currently £100 per hour.

Am I covered for incidents that happen abroad?

You’re covered in the UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands on all the elements of cover listed above. You’re also covered for some legal defence and personal injury claims in certain European countries. For full details please refer to the ‘countries covered’ definition within your policy wording.

What can I call the legal helpline about?

Our legal helpline can give you confidential legal advice on a range of commercial legal issues.

How often can I call the legal advice helpline?

As often as you need; there are no limits on how many times you can call.

Why do I need this in addition to my business insurance?

Commercial legal expenses insurance could cover a number of legal costs that your general business insurance won’t cover. For example, commercial legal expenses insurance can help you pursue a claim over a contract dispute with a supplier.

Will the insurance help me recover unpaid debts?

Many commercial legal expenses insurance policies will offer assistance in recovering unpaid debt, however the amount in dispute must be over £200 (including VAT).

Will this cover legal costs related to an accident involving a company vehicle?

No; this insurance will not cover you for any claims involving motor vehicles, unless your business is engaged in the business of selling motor vehicles.

Learn more about legal expenses insurance

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