Legal services cover on the rise

An increasing number of people are taking out legal expenses cover, according to industry experts.

John Rees, head of personal injury at Brethertons Solicitors, stated: "Most people have some form of legal expenses cover. It is often sold with ... a motor insurance policy or household insurance policy."

When sold as a part of another policy, it is often presented as a free or low cost addition.

People are advised to take out legal expenses cover when they have no other means of protecting themselves against paying an opponent's legal costs, according to Mr Rees.

Cover is provided for the legal expenses that the policyholder may incur in most personal injury, consumer, property and employment disputes.

Legal expenses insurance also often covers medical negligence claims.

Most cover policies come with the requirement that if a policyholder makes a claim for legal expenses, there must be a reasonable chance for success.

A policyholder is also expected to accept any reasonable offer of settlement.

Published by Phil Hammond