Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about your policy or Professional Liability Insurance in general? You've come to the right place.
FAQs
Here are 10 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about professional liability insurance for attorneys in Florida:
What is professional liability insurance for attorneys?
Professional liability insurance, also known as legal malpractice insurance, protects attorneys from claims of negligence, errors, or omissions made while providing legal services.
Is professional liability insurance required for attorneys in Florida?
No, Florida does not currently mandate professional liability insurance for attorneys, but it is strongly recommended to protect your practice and reputation.
What does professional liability insurance typically cover?
It generally covers legal defense costs, settlements, and judgments related to claims of professional negligence, errors in legal work, and missed deadlines or filings.
Are claims from past work covered under my policy?
Only if your policy includes prior acts coverage or retroactive coverage. It’s important to maintain continuous coverage to ensure protection for past services.
How much coverage do I need as a Florida attorney?
The appropriate coverage depends on your practice size, areas of law, client base, and risk exposure. Many solo practitioners opt for $100,000 to $1 million in coverage, while larger firms may need significantly more.
Does professional liability insurance cover cyber or data breaches?
Not typically. You may need to add cyber liability coverage or purchase a separate policy to protect against data breaches and cyberattacks.
What factors affect the cost of my premium?
Premiums are based on factors like practice area, claims history, firm size, geographic location, and selected coverage limits and deductibles.
What is a “claims-made” policy?
Most legal malpractice policies are claims-made, meaning they cover claims filed while the policy is active—even if the alleged error occurred earlier—provided the incident happened after the retroactive date.
Can I get coverage if I’ve had past claims or disciplinary actions?
Yes, but insurers may charge higher premiums or include exclusions. Working with an experienced agency can help you find coverage despite past issues.
Why choose a Florida-based agency for legal malpractice insurance?
A Florida-based agency understands the state’s legal landscape and regulatory environment, enabling them to offer tailored policies and localized risk management advice.