Waterbridge

Welcome

Benefits Proudly Offered to Waterbridge Employees

Be fully prepared and confident

with LegalEASE

Learn about legal benefits, 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
Elder Law

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 only $8.29 per paycheck*, via payroll deduction.

*Based on a 26-pay period deduction schedule.

Who's Covered?

The Member’s spouse 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 Plan 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
Miscellaneous Law Office Services	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Legal Services for any Non-Excluded Legal Matter	25% Discount on Plan Attorney's Hourly Rates	Not Applicable
Consumer Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Document Preparation: Simple Deed Promissory Note Consumer Dispute Correspondence Installment Sales Agreement Simple Affidavit General Power of Attorney: Covered Family Member Lease Agreement - Tenant only Time Share Agreement	Covered	$65 $55 $55 $55 $55 $55/Document $55/Family Member $65 $55
Consumer Dispute	Covered *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$595 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules
Small Claims Court Representation	Covered up to 2 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$105
Estate Planning	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Simple Will or Codicil for: Member Spouse Family Member	Covered	$80
Living Will and/or Health Care Power of Attorney Covered Family Member	Covered	$55
Probate of Small Estate	Covered up to 2 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$105
Home and Residential Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Real Estate Closing	Flat Rate of $175	Not Applicable
Refinancing of Primary Residence	Covered	$385
Tenant Dispute	$1,000 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$850 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules
Financial Matters	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Debt Collection Defense: Pre-Litigation Defense	Covered *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$425
Debt Collection Defense: Trial Defense	$700 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$595
Foreclosure	$480 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$410
Tax Audit	$1,500 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,275 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules
Bankruptcy	Flat Rate of $750	Not Applicable
Family	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Separation, Divorce, Civil Annulment: Uncontested Separation Consent/Default Divorce Uncontested Divorce	Covered up to 10 Hours with remainder at 25% discount	$470 $340 $510
Contested Divorce, as defined	$1,500 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,275 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules
Name Change	Covered	$255
Uncontested Guardianship/Conservatorship	Covered *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$425
Uncontested Governmental Agency Adoptions	Covered *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$405
Uncontested Stepparent Adoptions	Covered *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$340
Juvenile Court Proceedings	Covered *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$470
Preparation of Prenuptial Agreement	Flat Rate Fee of $239	Not Applicable
Civil	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Civil Litigation Defense	$1,500 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,275 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules
Criminal Defense	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Traffic Ticket Defense	Flat Rate of $89	Not Apploicable
Serious Traffic Matters (resulting in suspensioin or revocation of license)	Covered	$425
Administrative Proceeding (resulting in Suspension or Revocation of License)	Covered	$255
Misdemeanor Defense	$1,500 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules	$1,275 Maximum *Subject to Managed Case Rules
Additional Benefits	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Participating Attorney	LegalEASE Plan Coverage Non-Participating Attorney
Financial Advisor	Included	Not Applicable
Mediation	Included	Not Applicable
Identity Theft Assistance	Included	Not Applicable
Elder Law	Included	Not Applicable
Simple Incorporation	Flat Rate of $239	Not Applicable

Limitations apply.

*Managed Case Rules require the following:

Member 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 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 and/or Covered Family Member.

Exclusions

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 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 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 Contract; Legal Plan Administrator or its subsidiaries; Contractholder; Member’s employer; The LegalEASE Group and its parents, subsidiaries or any affiliated or successor company, plan underwriter or reinsurer; Plan Sponsor; or any Participating Attorney, if the dispute or proceeding pertains to services provided under the Contract.

Except for Consultation, the Contract 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.

Where there are specific hours or dollar amounts provide in this Contract 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

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

“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 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.

“COVERED SPOUSE” - means the Member’s lawful spouse at the time the contract is in effect.

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

“INTERNET PURCHASE” - A purchase of goods or services whose purchase value is over $200.00 at the time of purchase by a Member and/or Covered Family Member from a website on the worldwide web.

“LEGAL PLAN ADMINISTRATOR” – the LegalEASE Group, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or agents, including third party organizations and their affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and/or agents, hired by the LegalEASE Group to perform services under this Certificate of Coverage.

“MEMBER” - refers to the individual who is associated with the Contractholder named on the first page of this Certificate of Coverage and who has paid or a fee has been paid on his/her behalf and who meets the eligibility requirements for Covered Services as defined by the Contractholder.

“MEMBER SERVICE CENTER” - means the service location established to help make full use of the Certificate of Coverage.

“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 Legal Services Contract up to the maximum amount as shown in the Schedule of Services.

“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 Services.

“REIMBURSEMENT ADMINISTRATOR” - means LegalPlans USA ; or its subsidiary.

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

COVERED SERVICES

In consideration of payment and receipt by Us of the applicable fees, 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.

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, civil or criminal, except those specifically excluded.

Initial Law Office Consultation:

Up to the maximum as shown in the Schedule of Benefits for office consultations with a Participating Attorney on any personal legal problem, civil or criminal, except those specifically excluded.

Review of Simple Documents:

The Participating Attorney will verbally explain the meaning or impact of any form or document, or make suggestions for changes to a form or document being drafted of up to the maximum number of pages as shown in the Schedule of Benefits. This benefit does not include a written analysis of any form or document.

Miscellaneous Law Office Services

Legal Services for any Non-Excluded Legal Matter:

This benefit will cover any legal services needed by the Member or Covered Family Member for review or preparation of documents, or any other service required on any legal matters not listed as a covered benefit or exclusion under this Contract.

Consumer Matters

Document Preparation:

Preparation of any of the following documents: simple deed (excluding those reviewed or prepared under the real estate service), promissory note, consumer dispute correspondence, installment sales agreement, general power of attorney, lease agreement (tenant only), time share agreement, and simple affidavit.

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

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/herself.

This service 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 Services.

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 service does not include services performed by or for a title company, or for an attorney acting on behalf of a lending institution.

This service is limited to one closing per year.

Tenant Dispute:

Representation of the Member and/or Covered Family Member as a tenant in a dispute with his/her landlord.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Financial Matters

Debt Collection Defense:

The defense of any dispute involving personal (non-business related) debt. This service 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 court-ordered judgment or efforts to vacate or set aside a judgment.

This service 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 service 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 service does not include a defense against criminal charges nor the defense of civil tax litigation in any tax court.

This service 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 Services 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 service 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 Services; 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 Legal Services Contract provides coverage of contested matters and the service shall be in accordance with the Schedule of Services. 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 service is limited to one use per year (representation seeking or defending against interim or subsequent-to-decree 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 service 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 another. This service does not include fees for a court –appointed attorney for the child/conservatee.This service does not include contested matters.

This service 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 Services in an uncontested governmental agency or stepparent adoption. An uncontested adoption does not involve significant disputed issues. This service 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.

This service is limited to one use per year.

Juvenile Court Matters:

Services related to the representation of the dependent child of a Member and/or Covered Family 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 service does not cover any matter that falls outside the jurisdiction of juvenile court or any matter that may be considered a felony.

This service 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 service 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 service is limited to one uses 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 service 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 service 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 service is limited to one use per year.

Additional Benefits

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.

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.

Preparation of Prenuptial Agreement Flat Rate of $239:

This service covers the preparation of an agreement by a Plan Member and his or her fiancé/partner prior to their marriage or legal union (where allowed by law), outlining how property is to be divided in the event of separation, divorce or death of a spouse. Representation is provided only to the Plan Member. The fiancé/partner must have separate counsel or must waive representation.

Bankruptcy Flat Rate of $750:

This service includes preparation of the petition, documents, and schedules for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy filing. Filing fees, court appearances and costs are additional. Attorneys have the option to offer you a single fixed rate which would include the basic fixed fee plus costs, court time and expenses.

Real Estate Closing Flat Rate of $175:

This service includes reviewing purchase or sale agreements, one hour of telephone consultation, and a one hour appearance at closing for the purchase or sale of residential real estate not used for business or investment purposes. Title policy, other documentation and extended consultation is an additional charge.

Simple Incorporation Flat Rate of $239:

This service includes preparation of the incorporation documents, articles of incorporation, bylaws, and minutes. Does not include filing fees, costs or corporate kit. Any extended work for the new corporation is not eligible for family plan discounts.

Elder Law

Eligibility of Parents:

Parents of the Member and the Member’s Spouse, regardless of age, are eligible for benefits under the Elder Law coverage described herein. Benefits cover Biological Parents, Step-Parents and Adoptive Parents.

Elder Law Advice and Consultation

Legal Helpline:

Member/Eligible Parent may receive advice and consultation by toll-free telephone with a Plan Attorney. Services are available during normal business hours. Calls can relate to any personal legal matter, civil or criminal.

Financial Helpline:

Member/Eligible Parent will receive consultation by toll-free telephone during normal business hours. Calls can relate to investment strategies, debt matters or any personal financial planning question.

Elder Law Document Preparation

Simple Will Preparation:

Each Eligible Parent, as defined above, may receive one Simple Will per year at no charge. Plan Attorney will prepare the document and discuss the legal requirements for executing the Will.

Simple Will means the will maker does not have a significant net worth and will not benefit from tax planning, or the estate is not subject to current state or federal estate taxation; the will maker does not own a business that will continue in operation after death; the will maker does not want to put restrictions on what heirs may do with the property; the will maker does not 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 does not 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; the will maker does not think that someone will challenge the will; and/or the will maker does not want to exclude any lawful dependents.

Living Will Preparation:

Eligible Parents, as defined above, may request one Living Will per year at no charge. Plan Attorney will prepare the document as authorized by state law and discuss the legal requirements for signing the Living Will.

A Living Will expresses an individual’s wishes as to the use or withdrawal of life support systems.

Elder Law Additional Documents:

Additional documents may be prepared, up to once per year per Eligible Parent, as described above:

Healthcare Directive – $45 fee per document
Financial Power of Attorney – $45 fee per document
Durable Power of Attorney –$45 fee per document
Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney –$45 fee per document

Any 3 or more of the above documents may be prepared for a package cost of $115 per set.

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 (10per 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 SERVICES

Reimbursement for Services

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 coverage.
To obtain services under the Managed Case Rules:
1. Members and/or Covered Family Member must secure a confirmation letter from the Member Service Center prior to proceeding with an attorney.
2. The attorney must provide a written estimate of fees reflecting his or her best judgment as to the likely conduct of the case.
3. 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 under this Legal Services Contract must remain enrolled and continue to pay fees hereunder. All services 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 reimbursement 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 Non-Participating 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. Services provided to the Member and/or Covered Family Member for Covered Services are subject to the maximum as shown in the Schedule of Services.

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 services 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 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. 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.

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 contract / Certificate of Coverage; Legal Plan Administrator or its subsidiaries; Reimbursement Administrator or its subsidiaries; Contractholder; Member’s employer; Plan Sponsor; or any Participating and/or Non-Participating Attorney, if the dispute or proceeding pertains to services provided under the group contract / Certificate of Coverage.

The Certificate of Coverage will not provide services 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.

Where there are specific hours or dollar amounts provide in this Schedule of Services, 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 service are included in the Covered Services.

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

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 form to request reimbursement. The Member’s reimbursement will be based on the reimbursement schedule as shown in the Schedule of Services. 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 Territory

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

Refund Provision

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

Termination and Cancellation of Coverage

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

Cancellation or termination of the group contract;
If applicable, the Member fails to re-enroll;
The Member is no longer associated with Contractholder; or
The Member fails to remit payment 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:

The Member’s coverage is cancelled or terminated; or
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 Certificate of Coverage. The Participating Attorney shall not be obligated to provide any services under the Certificate of Coverage 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.

Portability

The Member may continue coverage under this Legal Services Contract by electing the option of portability when the Member no longer qualifies as an employee of the Contractholder or as a member of the group to which this Legal Services Contract is issued. The Member must apply for portability within sixty (60) days of this disqualifying event and make arrangements for payment. Portability coverage will take effect, subject to receipt of the initial payment, as of the date the Member’s coverage under this group Legal Services Contract terminates. Credit will be given for any applicable Waiting Period based on the number of months coverage was in force for the Member under this Legal Services Contract.

Conformed to Statute

Any terms of the Legal Services 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 Legal Services Contract are not assignable.

Payment or Reimbursement Disputes

Should you have a dispute concerning your payment or about a reimbursement, you should contact LegalEASE at 888-416-4313.

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.