This is why we do what we do.
OBLIC’s policyholders are extremely loyal and express high appreciation for the quality of our claims service. Claims are processed by long-tenured attorneys from start to finish. OBLIC has a history of offering loss control seminars in partnership with the Solo, Small Firms & General Practice Section of the OSBA. We also provide policyholders with loss prevention, coverage and malpractice alert emails plus other literature pertinent to loss control (such as free copies of the Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct).
In the event any policyholder directly or indirectly becomes involved in any situation which any policyholder believes may result in a “Claim” against any policyholder, that policyholder should immediately report it in writing to an OBLIC Claims representative.
All “Claims” must be reported in writing by mail, hand delivery to the Company, or by facsimile
transmission the receipt of which is confirmed by the Company in writing. Telephone notice and/or e-mail is NOT sufficient to constitute notice under the Policy.
Claims faq
Below are some of the frequently asked questions we receive about claims. If your question is not listed, please feel free to contact us to ask us about it.
What is a Claims-Made and Reported Policy?
“Claims-Made and Reported” insurance is a policy under which the insurance company is responsible for the
defense and payment of those claims first made against the policyholder and reported to the insurer during the period when the policy is in effect.
How do I report a claim?
All “Claims” must be reported in writing by mail, hand delivered to the Company, or by facsimile transmission the receipt of which is confirmed by the Company in writing. Telephone notice and/or electronic message (e-mail) is NOT sufficient to constitute notice under the Policy. We have also implemented a claim submission option via your firm’s policy portal at my.oblic.com.
Do I report a claim even though there has not yet been a demand for money or complaint filed?
Yes, upon any lawyer (or Insured) at your firm becoming aware of any acts, errors, or omissions which would reasonably be expected to be the basis of a “Claim” or suit, regardless of merit, including any request for tolling of the statute of limitations period, written notice shall be given by or on behalf of the Insured to the Company or any of its authorized agents as soon as practicable, together with the fullest information obtainable.
Should I report something that I don’t think is covered?
Yes. Reporting of acts, errors or omissions which would reasonably be expected to be the basis of a “Claim” or suit need to be reported pursuant to the requirements of the policy. We would provide a formal coverage decision after review.
Should I report a claim that appears to be within policy deductible?
Yes. Reporting of acts, errors or omissions which would reasonably be expected to be the basis of a “Claim” or suit need to be reported pursuant to the requirements of the policy. Many OBLIC policies have a single deductible for the policy period.
What type of payment does the deductible apply to?
The deductible amount applies to defense legal fees and expenses (“Claim Expense”) incurred in defending a “Claim,” as well as to any settlement or judgment payable under the terms of the policy. There are other coverages available with your OBLIC policy that qualify for no deductible, such as disciplinary defense expenses Refer to your policy for deductible information specific to your matter.
Should I advise my client about a mistake I discover?
Yes, you must comply with the Ohio Professional Conduct Rules. Please contact OBLIC’s loss prevention department if you discover a mistake for guidance on how to advise the client and best practices.
Should I advise my client to retain new counsel or continue to represent my client after the error?
Please contact OBLIC’s loss prevention department if you discover a mistake for guidance on how to advise the client and best practices.
