Or you can consult with an attorney before suing a merchant or landlord. Because legal services are increasingly necessary in a complex society, prepaid legal service plans analogous to health insurance have become an important means of assuring basic rights to millions of citizens. Employers, unions or associations pay for membership in the plan. Union plans are usually negotiated between labor and management as part of a collective bargaining agreement. Union members are often automatically enrolled.
Employees pay a small amount through payroll deductions.
Personal legal service plans. Individuals join for a minimal monthly or annual fee, usually through a credit card company. Small businesses pay an annual fee for basic business- related legal services. Payment to the panel attorneys varies by the plan. Members may call or meet with a panel attorney regarding almost any personal legal matter for up to 30 minutes at no charge.