If a dispute or legal issue arises that may be covered by Commercial Legal Expenses Insurance, notify Webber Insurance or the insurer as early as possible.

Do not assume that you should first appoint a lawyer, incur substantial costs and then seek reimbursement.

What information should I provide? #

The information required will depend on the type of matter, but it can include:

• A summary of what has happened.
• When the issue or dispute first arose.
• Relevant contracts, agreements or leases.
• Correspondence between the parties.
• Invoices or payment records.
• Letters or notices from regulators or the ATO.
• Employment records for an employment-related dispute.
• Details of any legal advice already obtained.
• Any deadlines, hearings or response dates.

Providing the relevant documents early can help the insurer assess whether the matter falls within the policy.

Can I appoint my own lawyer? #

Do not assume that you can appoint a lawyer and automatically recover the costs.

Depending on the policy and stage of the dispute, the insurer may:

• Appoint an approved legal representative.
• Require consent before legal costs are incurred.
• Allow the insured to nominate a lawyer subject to policy conditions.
• Require an assessment of the prospects of success before funding further action.

Check the policy requirements before committing to significant legal expenses.

What happens after the claim is notified? #

The insurer or claims administrator will normally review the circumstances against the relevant policy section.

They may request further information before confirming whether the matter is covered and what legal expenses can be approved.

For some matters, such as debt recovery, the policy may also contain a specific process that must be followed.

Should I wait until court proceedings start? #

No.

Early notification is generally preferable.

A dispute may need to be notified well before formal proceedings commence, particularly where the policy requires insurer approval before legal costs are incurred.

Contact Webber Insurance as soon as you become aware of a legal issue that may involve your Commercial Legal Expenses Insurance.