Legal protection insurance: points to note
The terms and conditions of legal protection insurance vary from provider to provider. comparis.ch answers ten key questions you should ask before signing the contract.
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In addition to looking at premiums, it's also worth comparing the terms and conditions of the legal protection insurance, because they vary depending on the provider.
Here are some answers to the questions you should ask before signing.
Might a certain legal field already be covered by another insurance policy?
Yes. For example, a homeowner's property rights might already be insured under buildings insurance. Before you take out a general legal protection insurance, you should therefore check if you are already covered by other products.
What alternatives to legal protection insurance are there?
Alternatives are offered, for example, by the regional tenants' association (Mieterverband), homeowners' association (Hauseigentümerverband) or possibly also ombudsmen (e.g. in the event of disputes with insurance companies) and arbitration authorities (e.g. in the canton of Zurich).
Is it worth taking out combined insurance?
Yes. Many insurance companies offer discounts as part of a combined insurance deal. In addition, it is clearer for you if everything is covered by a single policy. In most cases, a combined insurance policy consists of personal and motor legal protection insurance. Other combinations are sometimes also possible, however.
Should I compare several quotes before taking out the insurance?
Yes, because the premiums can sometimes vary greatly. But you shouldn't decide based on price alone: the cover and benefits provided may also differ between insurance companies.
When should I take out insurance?
Do you need legal expenses insurance? If so, don't wait too long. If a legal case arises before you have cover, it's usually already too late.
When can I report a legal case after concluding a contract?
For legal protection insurance, a waiting period (qualifying period) of between one and three months is common. The duration of the qualifying period is set out in the contract provisions. Legal protection will only take effect after this period.
What is covered by legal protection insurance?
Legal protection insurance covers lawyers' fees and legal expenses. It is important to remember that not all cases will be taken on (divorces are one example), and it is always possible that the insurance company will decide that the case is futile.
Can I choose the lawyer myself in the event of a legal dispute?
Different insurance companies have different rules here. Give preference to a quote in which you can choose the lawyer yourself in the event of a claim. The lawyers employed by insurance companies tend to be quick to agree to a settlement or determine that legal action is unlikely to go your way. Independent lawyers are not under any pressure with regard to litigation costs.
Can legal protection insurance be cancelled at any time?
No. Notice periods may be quite different. Find a policy with an annual right of termination to make you more flexible.
Is legal protection insurance tax-deductible?
Unfortunately not. Since it is entirely personal insurance, there are no tax breaks attached.