Kansas Attorney Malpractice Insurance
Introduction
As a lawyer, you are expected to provide legal services to your clients with the highest degree of professionalism, care and skill. However, despite your best efforts, things can sometimes go wrong, and your clients may hold you liable for mistakes or errors that occur in the course of your work. To protect your legal practice from the financial costs and reputation damage that can result from legal malpractice claims, it’s essential to have the right insurance coverage in place.
In Kansas, attorney malpractice insurance is a requirement for all licensed lawyers who practice law in the state. This insurance provides coverage for the costs of defending against malpractice lawsuits and for any damages that may be awarded to clients as a result of these lawsuits.
Why Kansas Requires Attorney Malpractice Insurance
The Kansas Supreme Court has made it mandatory for all lawyers practicing in the state to carry malpractice insurance to protect their clients and the public from the financial harm that can result from legal mistakes. The Court recognizes that even the most experienced and competent lawyers can make mistakes, and that having insurance in place is an important way to ensure that clients are adequately protected in the event of a legal malpractice claim.
What Does Kansas Attorney Malpractice Insurance Cover?
Kansas attorney malpractice insurance typically provides coverage for the following:
Defense costs
If you are named as a defendant in a legal malpractice lawsuit, your insurance policy will cover the costs of defending yourself against the allegations.
Damages
If you are found to be liable for legal malpractice, your insurance policy will pay damages awarded to the plaintiff.
Professional fees
If you are required to pay a fee to the Kansas Supreme Court in connection with a legal malpractice claim, your insurance policy may cover these costs.
Regulatory investigations
If you are investigated by the Kansas Bar Association or other regulatory bodies, your insurance policy may cover the costs of defending yourself against any allegations of wrongdoing.
Reputation protection
If your legal practice is damaged as a result of a legal malpractice claim, your insurance policy may provide coverage for the costs of restoring your reputation.
What Doesn’t Kansas Attorney Malpractice Insurance Cover?
It’s important to note that Kansas Lawyer malpractice insurance has some limits and exclusions. For example, your insurance policy may not cover the following:
Criminal charges
If you are charged with a crime, your insurance policy will not cover the costs of defending yourself or paying any fines or penalties that may be imposed.
Dishonest or illegal conduct
If you engage in dishonest or illegal conduct, your insurance policy will not cover the costs of defending yourself against any resulting legal malpractice claims.
Intentional acts
If you intentionally cause harm to your clients, your insurance policy will not provide coverage.
Choosing the Right Kansas Lawyer Malpractice Insurance Policy
When choosing a Kansas attorney malpractice insurance policy, it’s important to consider the following factors:
Coverage limits
Make sure you understand the maximum amount that your policy will pay out in the event of a legal malpractice claim.
Exclusions
Be sure to review the exclusions in your policy so that you know what types of claims will not be covered.
Premiums
Compare the premiums offered by different insurance companies to find a policy that fits your budget.
Claims experience
Consider the claims experience of the insurance company you are considering, as well as its financial stability.
