Is LegalShield Really Worth It? A Deep Dive into the Membership

LegalShield is not technically insurance. It’s more accurately described as a prepaid legal services plan or a legal membership. Think of it as a subscription service, like Netflix, but instead of streaming movies, you gain access to a network of attorneys for a relatively low monthly fee. It provides access to legal advice, document review, limited legal representation, and other legal services without the large upfront costs typically associated with hiring a lawyer.

Decoding LegalShield: More Than Just a Service

LegalShield operates on the principle of group purchasing power. By pooling together the subscription fees of its members, the company is able to negotiate lower rates with a network of established law firms. This allows individuals and small businesses to access legal assistance at a fraction of the traditional cost. But is it truly a valuable resource? Let’s break it down further.

Understanding the Coverage

The core offering of LegalShield is access to a dedicated law firm in your state or province. For a fixed monthly fee, members can:

• Consult with an attorney on an unlimited number of legal matters, whether they’re big or small. This is particularly valuable for preventative law – getting advice before a problem arises.
• Receive document review. Send contracts, leases, or other legal documents to your provider law firm for review and receive feedback.
• Have attorneys make phone calls or write letters on your behalf. This can be surprisingly effective in resolving disputes or negotiating settlements.
• Access trial defense hours depending on the length of membership.

Who Benefits Most From LegalShield?

LegalShield can be a valuable asset for a wide range of individuals and businesses, but it’s particularly beneficial for:

• Small business owners: LegalShield can help navigate the complexities of starting and running a business, from contract review to employee issues.
• Families: Addressing common legal issues like wills, traffic tickets, and consumer disputes.
• Landlords: Reviewing leases and handling tenant issues.
• Anyone who wants peace of mind: Knowing you have access to legal advice can be a significant stress reliever.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While LegalShield offers numerous advantages, it’s important to be aware of its limitations:

• It’s not a substitute for full legal representation in complex cases. While you can get advice and assistance with smaller matters, more complex litigation may require hiring a dedicated attorney outside of the LegalShield network.
• Coverage limitations: There are often limitations on the types of cases covered, such as pre-existing legal issues or criminal matters.
• Attorney selection is limited. You’re assigned to a specific law firm within the LegalShield network, which may not be your first choice if you had the freedom to select any attorney.
• Understanding the fine print is crucial. Before signing up, carefully review the terms and conditions of your membership to understand the scope of coverage and any limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about LegalShield

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify what LegalShield is all about:

1. What types of legal issues are covered by LegalShield?

LegalShield provides access to advice and assistance for a wide range of legal matters, including:

• Family law: Divorce, child custody, adoption (limited)
• Real estate law: Buying, selling, or renting property
• Estate planning: Wills, trusts, and probate
• Consumer law: Disputes with merchants, debt collection
• Traffic tickets: Speeding tickets and other minor violations
• Business law: Contract review, business formation

However, there are typically limitations on coverage for criminal matters, pre-existing legal issues, and certain other types of cases. Consult your plan details for exact coverage.

2. How do I contact an attorney through LegalShield?

Typically, you contact LegalShield through their website or mobile app. They will then connect you with an attorney at your assigned provider law firm. You can usually schedule a phone consultation or submit documents for review.

3. What if I need legal representation in court?

LegalShield provides some level of trial defense hours depending on your length of membership and the specific plan you have. However, these hours are often limited, and you may need to hire a separate attorney for full representation in a complex trial. Some plans offer discounted rates with your provider law firm for services beyond the scope of the LegalShield membership.

4. Can I choose my own attorney with LegalShield?

No, LegalShield assigns you to a specific provider law firm within their network based on your location. You cannot choose your own attorney within the network. This is one of the trade-offs for the lower monthly fee.

5. Is LegalShield a good fit for everyone?

Not necessarily. It’s most beneficial for individuals and businesses who anticipate needing legal advice or assistance on a regular basis. If you rarely encounter legal issues, the monthly fee may not be worth it.

6. What happens if I move to a different state?

Your LegalShield membership will transfer to your new state. You’ll be assigned to a new provider law firm in your new location. The terms of your coverage will generally remain the same, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the specifics with LegalShield.

7. How much does LegalShield cost?

The cost of LegalShield varies depending on the plan you choose and the state you live in. Individual plans typically range from $20 to $40 per month, while small business plans can range from $40 to $150 per month.

8. What is the cancellation policy for LegalShield?

LegalShield typically allows you to cancel your membership at any time. However, you may be required to provide written notice of your cancellation. Review your membership agreement for specific cancellation terms.

9. Does LegalShield cover pre-existing legal issues?

Generally, LegalShield does not cover pre-existing legal issues – those that existed before you became a member. However, some plans may offer limited coverage for certain pre-existing issues after a waiting period.

10. Are there any hidden fees with LegalShield?

It’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of your LegalShield membership to understand any potential fees. While the core membership fee covers most services, you may be responsible for additional fees for certain services, such as court costs or expert witness fees.

11. How does LegalShield differ from traditional legal insurance?

Traditional legal insurance is less common and often offered through employers. It typically involves paying a premium and filing a claim when you need legal services. LegalShield, on the other hand, is a prepaid legal services plan that provides ongoing access to legal advice and assistance for a fixed monthly fee.

12. How can I determine if LegalShield is the right choice for me?

Consider your individual legal needs and risk tolerance. If you frequently need legal advice or assistance, or if you simply want the peace of mind of having access to an attorney, LegalShield may be a valuable option. However, if you rarely encounter legal issues, it may not be the best investment. Weigh the cost of the membership against the potential benefits and compare it to other legal service options.