In law, as in life, things can change quickly—and not always for the better. When it comes to legal malpractice insurance, a sudden shift usually means one thing: a claim has been filed against you.
If that ever happens, there are several important steps you’ll need to take. But one step matters more than all the others:
Report the claim or potential claim immediately.
This cannot be overstated. As soon as you become aware of an issue, you should contact your carrier—whether by phone, email, mail, or fax. However you choose to report it, just make sure you do.
At INF, we encourage clients to include us on all claim-related correspondence. This allows us to follow up directly and ensure proper documentation is in place from the beginning.
You might think reporting a claim is a no-brainer—but too many insureds hesitate or delay. Why?
Denial: Hoping the issue will disappear
Discomfort: Avoiding the stress of reliving the situation
Delay: Believing there’s more time than there actually is
Unfortunately, these delays can lead to devastating consequences. When a claim is finally reported late, coverage can be denied—simply because of the timing. This is not a situation you want to be in.
So here’s the bottom line:
If you suspect a malpractice claim is coming, report it immediately.
Think of it as giving yourself a free shot from a buried lie. It’s the first—and most critical—step in protecting yourself, your firm, and your future.
We recently published a brand-new book titled Game Over! Not Today and the best part? It’s absolutely free. This guide is designed to help business owners like you understand the ins and outs of cyber liability insurance, and more importantly, how to protect your business from the growing threats in today’s digital landscape.
Why You Should Download It
Cyber threats aren’t just a big-business problem anymore. Small and mid-sized businesses are increasingly being targeted by hackers, and unfortunately, many are caught unprepared. That’s exactly why we wrote this book—to demystify cyber insurance and give you the tools and knowledge to confidently face these challenges.
Every chapter in this book offers valuable insights, but there are two chapters I really want you to pay close attention to: Chapter 6 and Chapter 8. These contain immediate, actionable advice that could make all the difference if your business ever experiences a cyber event.
🔐 Chapter 6: Building a Strong Incident Reporting Process
When a cyberattack happens, chaos can follow—unless you have a plan. Chapter 6 walks you through exactly how to build a strong incident reporting process, so you’re not left scrambling in the heat of the moment.
Inside, you’ll learn:
Who you need to contact (with phone numbers and email addresses already laid out)
What your immediate next steps should be
How to document and report the incident to your insurance carrier
What details are critical to have on hand before something goes wrong
This chapter ensures that when you’re hit with a cyber event, you’re not asking, “What do I do now?”—because you’ll already know.
👥 Chapter 8: The Importance of Employee Education
Your employees are your first line of defense, and Chapter 8 dives deep into why education and engagement are critical. A team that understands what a cyberattack looks like—and feels confident raising their hand when something seems off—can prevent a bad situation from getting worse.
You’ll discover:
How to create a team-oriented cyber-safe culture
What to include in your employee training
Why employee involvement in your cyber response procedures is non-negotiable
From phishing emails to ransomware, your team needs to know what to look for and how to act fast—and this chapter gives you the playbook to make that happen.
Your Next Step: Download the Book
If you’ve ever felt unsure about cyber liability insurance or what steps to take if your business is attacked, this book is for you. It’s practical, straightforward, and best of all, it’s free.
I’ve been working hard behind the scenes, and I’m thrilled to finally share some exciting news — I’ve completed my book on cyber liability insurance, and I want you to have it for free!
The book, titled Game Over, Not Today, is designed to be your roadmap for preparing your office to defend against cyber threats, while also demystifying the coverages found in a typical cyber liability policy.
Through the experiences of two fictional small businesses — Legal Eagles LLC and Helping Hands Chiropractic Corp. — you’ll follow their journeys navigating the cyber landscape using smart risk management practices and the right insurance coverage. I’ve included real-world examples and simple, effective explanations of policy terms and definitions to make even the most complex topics easy to understand. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your current protections, this book will help you upgrade your cyber defense strategy.
Why did I write this book?
One of the most common questions I hear from clients and prospects is, “I don’t even know what cyber liability is — why would I need to insure against it or implement cybersecurity systems?” This book answers that question and many others. It was written with the goal of helping you better understand the cyber risks your business faces every day, and why taking action now is so important.
Here’s what you’ll get from the book:
A clear understanding of cyber liability insurance
Real-life solutions to common cyber exposures
Practical steps to enhance your office’s cybersecurity
Peace of mind — and it won’t cost you a dime!
In fact, by applying the strategies outlined in the book, you could end up saving money by reducing the likelihood of a cyber claim in your business.
Getting your free copy of “Game Over, Not Today” is easy.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to strengthen your business against today’s growing cyber threats. It’s a quick, valuable read that could make all the difference!
I had the opportunity to attend the RBC Heritage and watch some of the world’s best golfers up close. As impressive as the athletes were, I found myself equally captivated by their caddies.
These pros weren’t just carrying clubs—they were walking the course, mapping out every bunker and green, noting pin placements, and essentially acting as strategists for every single swing. They knew the course like the back of their hand and had prepared for every possible scenario. It got me thinking…
Who’s the caddie in your law practice?
As attorneys, you juggle a lot—client meetings, court appearances, case research, filing deadlines, and firm management. But like the pros on the PGA Tour, even the most talented lawyers can’t win alone. Success isn’t just about doing it all yourself—it’s about knowing who’s walking beside you.
Think about it:
Who’s helping you read the green? In other words, who’s helping you navigate the unpredictable twists and turns of your cases?
Who’s helping you avoid the sand traps? Are you keeping up with the latest case law and compliance updates to steer clear of costly missteps?
Who’s helping you prep the course? Is your team proactively setting you up for success—whether it’s paralegals, support staff, your marketing agency, or trusted advisors?
It’s tempting to want to be the player, the coach, and the caddie all at once. But that’s a tough (and exhausting) game to win. Just like the pros, you need someone in your corner helping you make the right calls, spot the risks, and keep your eye on the pin.
So I’ll ask again: Who’s your caddie?
Whether it’s someone managing your operations, reviewing insurance and compliance, or supporting your client intake and marketing, having the right help is what turns good attorneys into great ones.
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.
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. 😉🐶
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
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.
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.
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!
