The Extra Benefits You Get as a Client of Integrity First Corporation

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I wanted to take a moment to share something important with you: the additional benefits you receive as a valued client of Integrity First Corporation.

Today, I’m not discussing policies or coverage–Instead, I’d like to highlight the exclusive resources and value-added tools available to you as part of the Integrity First community. These tools are designed to streamline your processes, enhance risk management, and keep you informed and empowered.

1. Your Personal, Secure Client Portal

One of the best perks we offer is access to our secure client portal, built on Citrix ShareFile with state-of-the-art encryption. With this portal, you have 24/7 access to your policies and applications, 365 days a year.

You can:

  • Create your own username and password
  • Send and receive encrypted emails
  • Upload documents directly to me
  • Complete and forward renewal applications with just a few clicks

It’s a sleek, secure, and incredibly helpful tool. If you’re not using it yet, I highly encourage you to log in and see how it can simplify your policy management.

2. Bi-Weekly Risk Management Emails

Every two weeks, we send out valuable emails to all of our clients. These include:

  • Risk management tips
  • Updates on emerging trends in legal malpractice
  • Articles on what to watch out for in cybersecurity and professional liability

Our goal is to keep you ahead of the curve so you can protect your practice with confidence.

3. Educational Videos

In addition to email updates, we also create and share short videos every couple of weeks. These videos cover topics like:

  • Legal malpractice insurance insights
  • Cyber insurance essentials
  • Tips for completing your insurance applications correctly
  • Industry news you need to know

We keep things practical and relevant — no golf stories, I promise! Just actionable content to help you stay informed.

4. Free Webinars and Live Events

We regularly host free webinars featuring expert speakers in legal malpractice and cyber liability. These webinars often come with CE credits, so not only are they educational, but they can also help you fulfill ongoing education requirements at no cost. Be on the lookout for announcements via email — they fill up quickly!

5. A Wealth of Resources on Our Website

Our website is a hub of valuable information. It’s home to every single video we’ve created — over 150 and counting! You can browse, watch, and learn at your convenience. We also have articles, risk management resources, and tools designed to help you navigate complex insurance topics with ease.

When you become an insured client with Integrity First Corporation, you gain access to so much more than just insurance coverage. We’re here to support you, educate you, and make managing your professional risks as simple as possible.

If you’re not already taking advantage of these resources, I encourage you to start today! Log in to your portal, check out our latest video, or register for an upcoming webinar.

Why Lawyers Need to Plan for Retirement Tail Coverage

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Today I want to share something important: tail coverage. No, not the wagging kind—but retirement tail coverage for lawyers.

Retirement is supposed to be a time to relax and enjoy the rewards of your hard work. But for lawyers, retirement can come with lingering risks. Even after stepping away from the profession, retired attorneys can still be sued for legal malpractice—sometimes even 2, 3, or 5 years after retirement.

What Is Retirement Tail Coverage?

Retirement tail coverage, also known as an extended reporting period endorsement, is a provision in your professional liability insurance that protects you from malpractice claims made after you retire. The good news? If you have an active policy, most insurance providers will offer a free retirement tail—provided you meet their qualifications.

Do You Qualify for Free Retirement Tail Coverage?

Here’s where planning ahead becomes crucial. Most insurance policies require that you:

  • Have continuous coverage with the same provider for at least three consecutive years before retirement.
  • Officially retire from practicing law.

If you meet these requirements, your insurer may grant you a free retirement tail. But if you don’t qualify, purchasing tail coverage can be expensive—typically 250% to 300% of your last premium. For example, if your final premium was $2,000, you could pay $6,000 or more for retirement tail coverage.

What Should You Do Next?

If retirement is on your horizon—whether in the next few years or further down the road—make sure you check your policy at least three years in advance. Talk to your broker, review your coverage, and ensure you qualify for free tail coverage.

Need help navigating your options? Call me at 412-563-2106! I’d be happy to review your policy and make sure you’re set for a stress-free retirement.

Remember, planning ahead means you can truly enjoy your retirement—without constantly chasing your tail. 😉🐶

Navigating Hazards: What Golf and Legal Malpractice Insurance Have in Common

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If you’ve ever played a round of golf, you know the course is full of hazards. Whether it’s sand traps, thick rough, trees, or even dreaded water hazards, every hole presents its own unique challenges. And if you play golf like me, you tend to find all of them! But as I was out on the course recently, I realized that golf isn’t too different from running a law practice.

Whether you work in a large firm or operate as a solo practitioner, your daily practice is full of hazards. Blown statutes of limitations, hidden conflicts of interest, or even taking on the wrong client—each of these can lead to serious consequences. But unlike in golf, where you have to navigate hazards on your own, in the legal world, you have a safety net: legal malpractice insurance.

The Advantage of Legal Malpractice Insurance

One of the key benefits of most legal malpractice policies is access to risk management resources, often in the form of a hotline. This invaluable tool allows you to consult with experienced professionals who can help you navigate complex situations. Whether you need guidance on a tricky legal issue, are unsure how to proceed with a particular case, or simply want to double-check your risk exposure, making a quick call to the hotline can help mitigate potential problems before they escalate into claims.

Imagine if golf worked the same way. What if you could call up a pro like Scottie Scheffler and ask for advice when you’re in a tough spot—trapped in a bunker with a pebble behind your ball and a tricky shot ahead? Unfortunately, that’s not an option in golf. But in law, you do have that lifeline, and it’s wise to take advantage of it.

Use the Tools at Your Disposal

Legal malpractice insurance isn’t just there to protect you after a claim arises—it’s a proactive tool to help you manage risks before they turn into major problems. So, the next time you find yourself facing a professional hazard, remember to use the resources available to you. Pick up the phone, call the hotline, and get the advice you need.

In golf, you have to play the ball where it lies. But in law, you don’t have to face hazards alone.

And remember—I’m Don, your insurance guy, not your golf guy!

Have any questions about the risk management hotline? Call INF at 412.563.2106

Don’t Gamble on Your Legal Malpractice Insurance—Get the Coverage You Need

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Hey, Don Ivol here—stepping away from my desk for a moment to enjoy some unseasonably warm weather. It must be at least 50 degrees out! If you ask Punxsutawney Phil, we should be preparing for six more weeks of winter, but you wouldn’t know it from today’s forecast.

Speaking of our furry weather predictor, I recently read that Phil is right less than 50% of the time. That might be acceptable for a groundhog—or even a meteorologist—but when it comes to your legal malpractice insurance, less than 50% just doesn’t cut it.

If you’re renewing or purchasing a policy this year, whether through me at Integrity First Corporation or another broker, take a moment to make sure you have the coverage you truly need. Here are a few key questions to consider:

1. Are Your Policy Limits Right for You?

Your limits should align with the scope of your practice and the clients you serve. If they’re too low, you may be leaving yourself exposed. Too high, and you could be overpaying.

2. Is Your Deductible Still the Right Fit?

In today’s economy, reassessing your deductible is a smart move. Does it need to be adjusted—higher to lower your premium, or lower to reduce out-of-pocket costs in case of a claim?

3. Is Your Broker Looking Out for You?

A good broker doesn’t just sell you a policy; they walk you through the application process, ensure you understand your coverage, and stay in touch with the carrier on your behalf. If your broker isn’t providing that level of service, it might be time to reevaluate.

Don’t Leave It to Chance

The last thing you want is to take a gamble with your coverage, relying on guesswork like Punxsutawney Phil. Instead, take control and make sure your legal malpractice insurance protects you properly.

Have questions? Need guidance? I’m Don I—your insurance guy. Let’s make sure you’re covered. Give me a call at 412-563-2106.

How an Arctic Blast of Unexpected Legal Claims Could Freeze Your Law Firm—And How to Protect It

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Wow, is it cold outside! This Arctic freeze has really taken us by surprise, freezing everything in its path. Hopefully, you’ve been able to take some precautions, like dressing warmly and leaving a drip running from your faucet to prevent frozen pipes. But as I stand here thinking about how the weather can catch us off guard, I realized that something else can freeze your law practice just as suddenly—unexpected legal malpractice claims.

Just like bad weather, legal malpractice claims can come out of nowhere. However, there are steps you can take to protect your firm and avoid getting caught in a legal storm. Here are a few essential strategies that will help prevent your law firm from freezing under the pressure of a malpractice claim:

1. Implement a Dual Calendar System

Much like the need to bundle up when temperatures drop, having a dual calendar system in place will help you stay organized and ensure that nothing slips through the cracks. This system helps you manage deadlines and appointments more efficiently. Using a computerized calendar makes this process even easier, allowing you to keep track of all your important dates at a glance and avoid potential scheduling conflicts.

2. Use a Conflict of Interest System

Just as you would avoid stepping out into a blizzard unprepared, avoid taking on cases with potential conflicts of interest. Establishing a robust conflict of interest system ensures that your firm is not inadvertently engaging in cases that could result in a legal malpractice claim down the line. Regularly reviewing and updating your system will help ensure you are always ahead of the game.

3. Keep Clients Informed with Engagement and Disengagement Letters

Clear communication is key, especially when dealing with clients. Much like you’d keep an eye on the forecast during an Arctic blast, you need to keep your clients informed about what’s going on with their case. Use engagement letters at the start of a relationship to clarify expectations and disengagement letters when ending a case to officially document the conclusion of your involvement. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that your firm is protected.

4. Maintain Constant Contact with Clients

Speaking of communication, regular updates with your clients are crucial. Let them know exactly what you’re working on and where things stand with their case. This will help minimize any surprises and reduce the chances that your clients will feel frustrated or abandoned. If they understand what’s happening, they’re less likely to feel the need to take legal action.

5. Stay Prepared—Like You Would for Bad Weather

Just as you prepare for cold weather by having the right gear and precautions in place, you should stay vigilant about protecting your practice from potential legal malpractice claims. By implementing these systems, staying organized, and communicating effectively with your clients, you’ll be far less likely to find your law firm caught off guard by a claim.

Stay warm, stay safe, and remember: I’m Don, your insurance guy. If you need help protecting your practice from potential risks, don’t hesitate to reach out.

New Year, New Coverage: Legal Malpractice vs. Cyber Insurance

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Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, many of us are setting resolutions to eat better, exercise more, and stick to healthier habits. Whether you’re all-in on resolutions or taking a pass this year, there’s one goal we can all embrace: improving our protection. For lawyers and law firms, this means reassessing your insurance coverage to ensure you’re adequately protected against today’s risks.

Why You Need Both Legal Malpractice and Cyber Insurance

As a legal professional, you face a variety of exposures every day. Two of the most significant are legal malpractice and cyber risks. Unfortunately, there’s a common misconception that these two types of insurance are interchangeable. They’re not. Each addresses a distinct set of risks, and failing to carry both could leave you vulnerable.

Legal Malpractice Insurance This coverage is designed to protect you and your firm against claims of professional negligence. If a client alleges that your legal services caused them harm, your legal malpractice policy provides a safety net. While some policies may include minimal coverage for cyber-related incidents, this is typically limited in scope and insufficient to address the full range of cyber risks.

Cyber Insurance Cyber insurance, on the other hand, protects your firm against cyber threats like data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other digital risks. These policies are tailored to address the financial and operational impacts of cyber incidents, including notification costs, regulatory fines, and business interruption. Unlike legal malpractice insurance, cyber insurance doesn’t cover claims of professional negligence.

Understanding the Differences

It’s critical to understand that these two policies are not interchangeable. While there may be some overlap—such as limited cyber coverage under a legal malpractice policy—the limits are usually low, and the coverage may not even trigger in certain scenarios. Similarly, cyber policies don’t provide protection against claims of legal malpractice. Relying on one policy to cover both risks is a gamble that could cost you dearly.

Protecting Your Practice in 2025

Make 2025 the year you take a proactive approach to safeguarding your practice. Ensure you have comprehensive legal malpractice and cyber insurance coverage in place. Doing so not only protects you and your firm but also your employees and clients.

If you’re unsure whether your current policies provide adequate protection, let’s talk. I’m here to help you navigate your insurance needs and ensure you’re fully covered for the challenges ahead.

Remember, I’m Don I, your insurance guy. Let’s make this the year of better protection for you and your practice. Give me a call, and let’s discuss your options today!

Beware of SMishing (SMS Phishing) This Holiday Season

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As the holiday season approaches, it’s not just Santa Claus and jingle bells we need to watch out for—there’s also a growing threat called SMishing, or SMS phishing. While phishing through emails has been around for years, SMishing operates through text messages, attempting to deceive you into providing sensitive personal information.

What is SMishing?

SMishing is a form of phishing that targets your mobile phone through text messages. Just like phishing emails, these messages aim to trick you into clicking on links or answering questions that divulge personally identifiable information (PII). Once scammers obtain this information, they can use it for fraudulent activities, potentially ruining your holiday cheer.

How Does SMishing Work?

One of the most common SMishing tactics involves fake delivery notifications. You might receive a text claiming that your package is on its way, with a request to confirm your address or answer a few questions. These messages often include a link that, when clicked, leads to a site designed to collect your personal details.

These scams are particularly effective during the holiday season when many of us are expecting packages and might not think twice about a message from a delivery service.

How to Spot a SMishing Attempt

To avoid falling victim to SMishing, keep an eye out for these red flags:

  1. Unknown Numbers: If you receive a text from a number you don’t recognize, especially one with a foreign area code, proceed with caution. SMishing messages often originate from unfamiliar numbers.
  2. Poor Grammar: Pay close attention to the grammar and formatting of the message. SMishing texts frequently contain typos, unusual capitalizations, or improper sentence structure, signaling their fraudulent nature.
  3. Unsolicited Links: Never click on links from unknown senders. If you receive a suspicious message, delete it immediately. Clicking on these links could expose your personal information or infect your device with malware.

Stay Safe This Holiday Season

The holidays should be a time of joy, not stress. By staying vigilant and recognizing the signs of SMishing, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these scams.

If you’re unsure about a text, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Reach out to the purported sender through a trusted method, such as their official website or customer service line, to verify the message’s legitimacy.

Enjoy the holidays, stay safe, and don’t let SMishing spoil your festive spirit. Remember, protecting your personal information is one of the best gifts you can give yourself this season!

Make the Most of Your Legal Malpractice Policy: Don’t Overlook Ancillary Coverages

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When it comes to legal malpractice insurance, you might have heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.” While it’s true that nothing in life is entirely free, your legal malpractice insurance policy may include valuable features known as ancillary coverages. These are not “free” in the traditional sense, but they are part of the package you’re already paying for — and they can provide significant benefits. Here’s why you should take full advantage of these offerings.

Continuing Education (CE) Classes: Boost Your Credits at No Extra Cost

One of the most useful ancillary coverages included in many legal malpractice policies is access to free Continuing Education (CE) or Continuing Legal Education (CLE) classes. These classes are typically available online, making them convenient and flexible for your schedule. Even better, in states like Pennsylvania, these classes often qualify for ethics credits.

Think about it: If you’re currently paying out-of-pocket for these courses, why not save that money? Whether it’s $10, $20, or even $50 per credit, those savings add up quickly. This is an excellent example of utilizing the resources already available to you within your policy to keep your hard-earned money where it belongs — in your pocket.

Disciplinary Coverage: Protection When You Need It Most

Another key feature of ancillary coverages is disciplinary coverage. No attorney wants to receive that dreaded letter notifying them of a disciplinary charge, but if it happens, it’s reassuring to know that your policy may help cover some of the costs associated with hiring legal representation. Having access to a lawyer who can help you navigate the disciplinary process and prepare a defense is invaluable. This support can make a challenging situation a bit less stressful.

Risk Management Resources: Tools to Help Prevent Claims

Risk management websites provided by your insurance carrier are another great resource you might be overlooking. These websites offer a wealth of information, including sample engagement and disengagement letters, updates on legal trends, and best practices for minimizing your risk of malpractice claims. By tapping into these resources, you can stay informed about the latest industry developments and enhance your practice management — ultimately helping to reduce your exposure to potential claims.

Don’t Miss Out: Review Your Policy Today

Your legal malpractice policy likely includes a highlight sheet listing the various ancillary coverages and resources available to you. Take a moment to review it. You might be surprised at the number of valuable tools and services you already have access to, all included in your policy.

In conclusion, while there may be no such thing as a free lunch, there are plenty of beneficial features baked into your legal malpractice policy. Make sure you’re taking full advantage of them to save time, reduce costs, and protect your practice.

Don’t Let Cyber Threats Haunt You: Essential Tips & Cyber Liability Insurance for Extra Protection

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As Cybersecurity Awareness Month comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the importance of keeping your digital space secure—both at work and at home. This October, we’ve spotlighted essential strategies to ward off potential cyber threats that can haunt any business. From scam emails to weak passwords, each topic tackled a vital piece of the cybersecurity puzzle.

Imagine standing in front of a graveyard filled with goblins and skeletons, each one representing the digital threats that lurk online: ransomware, phishing scams, and weak passwords, to name a few. Just like these ghouls and goblins, cyber threats may seem harmless until they slip through the cracks. But don’t fear; there are simple ways to keep them at bay. Here’s a quick recap of the strategies we covered and how each one can help strengthen your defense:

  1. Don’t Let Scam Emails Breach Your Defense – Phishing Protection
  2. Unique Passwords Are Key – Strengthening Your Password Security
  3. Strengthen Your Cyber Defense with Fresh Updates – The Importance of Regular Software Updates
  4. Multi-Factor Authentication – An Added Layer of Security

For those looking to add even more robust protection, consider adding a cyber liability insurance policy. This added layer of security can provide peace of mind in the event of a cyber incident, covering potential financial damages.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about cyber liability insurance, feel free to reach out. Cybersecurity threats may be spooky, but with these strategies and a proactive approach, you can keep them at bay year-round.

Multi-Factor Authentication: A Stronger Defense for Your Cybersecurity

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Welcome to Week 4 of Cybersecurity Awareness Month! As we continue to focus on protecting your digital assets, it’s time to discuss one of the most effective methods to secure your accounts—Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). By adding multiple layers of defense, MFA helps to ensure that only authorized users can access your sensitive data.

What Is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires users to provide two or more verification steps to access an account. Think of it as an extra lock on your digital door. Even if a hacker manages to steal your password, they still need to pass through another security checkpoint to gain access.

How Does MFA Work?

MFA typically comes into play after you’ve entered your password. To complete the login process, you’ll need to provide additional proof of identity. Here are some common types of MFA verification methods:

  • An extra PIN: A four- to six-digit code that you must enter in addition to your password.
  • Security questions: Pre-set questions that only you should be able to answer, like your mother’s maiden name or the name of your first pet.
  • Code sent via email or text: A temporary code is sent to your phone or email, which you must enter to proceed.
  • Biometric scan: This could be a fingerprint, facial recognition, or even voice recognition, ensuring that only you can access your account.
  • Authenticator app: These apps generate a unique number every 30 seconds, which you use to verify your identity.
  • Secure token: A physical device like a key fob that generates a code, providing an extra layer of security.

Why Should You Use MFA?

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, relying solely on passwords is no longer enough. MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access by adding an additional barrier that hackers must overcome. It’s especially crucial for protecting sensitive information such as financial data, client records, and other confidential materials.

By adopting MFA, businesses can ensure better data protection for their clients and themselves. This simple yet effective security measure helps prevent breaches that could lead to identity theft, financial losses, and damaged reputations.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Business

Cybersecurity is not just about having strong passwords; it’s about adding multiple layers of protection. By enabling MFA, you take a proactive step toward securing your digital environment. Start enhancing your firm’s cybersecurity with these layered defenses and stay ahead of potential threats.

And if you’re looking for additional ways to mitigate your risk, consider cyber liability insurance. It’s a crucial safeguard for businesses in today’s digital age. For more information, give us a call at 412-563-2106.

Strengthen your defenses and keep your data secure—because in the digital world, a little extra protection goes a long way.