FAQ

Welcome to ALPS Frequently Asked Questions

Providing our clients with timely, personal service is our priority. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at (800) 367-2577. Please review the most frequently asked policy related questions below. If you don't find what you are looking for, please contact us directly so we may assist you.

 

Does ALPS offer CLEs to its insureds?

Yes, we offer some of the most relevant and interactive CLEs in the industry.  View the events on this website or ask an ALPS representative about CLEs in your area.

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What is a risk retention group (RRG)? Why is it an advantage?

A risk retention group (RRG) is a liability insurance company that is owned by its policyholders - in ALPS case the lawyers we insure. Some of the key advantages offered by an RRG relate to the control members obtain over their liability program. An RRG benefits its members by translating that control into; availability of coverage year in / year out vs. the constant uncertainty of dealing with the traditional market, coverage tailored to a policyholder's specific needs, potential for profit as shareholders when company grows, professional risk management to prevent losses, responsive claims handling, and access to reinsurance markets.

As an RRG, ALPS exists to serve the needs of its policyholders (lawyers) and the legal profession as a whole. We promise to be the best value for the legal community. While that doesn't always translate to being the least expensive option, ALPS provides distinct benefits through both our structure and our policy.

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Do I need to notify that I have hired a non-attorney employee?

You will need to update the number of employees to the firm on your renewal application.

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Do I need to notify ALPS of changes to my Areas of Practice?

Please notify ALPS of these changes at renewal time on your application.

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If I add or delete an attorney during the policy period, how is it charged or credited?

ALPS does not charge to add an attorney mid-term, nor does ALPS refund premium if an attorney is deleted mid-term.

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How do I notify you of changes to my firm (adding an attorney, address change, firm name change, etc)?

Notification of changes will need to be received in writing. If you are adding an attorney, we will need to receive a letter from a partner in the firm requesting the attorney be added to the policy, stating the exact date to add the attorney. The new attorney will also need to complete an Individual Attorney Supplement (IAS). If an attorney leaves your firm, please notify us of this change. All changes to the firm should be reported within thirty (30) days of the change.

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How do I request another copy of my Declarations Page?

Requests need to be received in writing. Requests can be faxed to (406) 728-7416 or you can click here to log in to your account and request a copy.

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How do I request a Certificate of Insurance?

Certificate of Insurance requests need to be received in writing. The request will have to include the name of the Certificate Holder, their address and if you wish to have a copy faxed to their attention. Requests can be faxed to (406) 728-7416 or you can click here to log in to your account and request a copy.

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In which states does ALPS provide insurance?

ALPS is registered to protect lawyers and law firms in the following states and U.S. territories:

Alaska | Arizona | Arkansas | Colorado | Connecticut | Delaware | Hawaii | Idaho | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Maine | Massachusetts | Minnesota | Mississippi | Montana | Nebraska | Nevada | New Hampshire | New Mexico | New York | North Dakota | Pennsylvania | Rhode Island | South Carolina | South Dakota | Tennessee | Utah | Vermont | Virginia | Washington | Washington D.C. | West Virginia | Wyoming | Guam | Northern Mariana Islands | U.S. Virgin Islands

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When do I report a claim?

Policyholders are required to provide written notice when they reasonably become aware of an incident or circumstance that could give rise to a claim. Experience has proven early reporting can mitigate damages. If you have questions or concerns, please contact one of our claims professionals.

Notice of a claim may be written in hard copy and delivered to ALPS by regular mail or facsimile or submitted via email at claims@alpsnet.com.

In addition to all other terms and conditions of coverage, a claims made and reported policy requires two things to fall within the scope of the policy: First, there must be a policy in effect at the time the error or loss occurred. Second, there must be a policy in effect when the claim is first made against you and first reported to the insurer. Both preconditions must occur before coverage exists under the policy.

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Should I report a claim even if a demand has not been made?

Yes, by the terms of the policy, Policyholders are required provide written notice to us at the time they become aware of any incident or circumstance that could give rise to a claim. If you have questions or concerns, contact one of our claims professionals.

In addition to all other terms and conditions of coverage, a claims made and reported policy requires two things to fall within the scope of the policy: First, there must be a policy in effect at the time the error or loss occurred. Second, there must be a policy in effect when the claim is first made against you and first reported to the insurer. Both preconditions must occur before coverage exists under the policy.

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How do I report a claim?

Notice of a claim may be written in hard copy and delivered to ALPS by regular mail or facsimile or submitted via email at claims@alpsnet.com. Send mail or fax claims notifications to address/fax number below:

ALPS Claims Department
111 N. Higgins Ave., Suite 200
Missoula, MT 59807-9169
Fax: (406) 728-7416

Please feel free to contact our Claims Department at (800) 367-2577 if you have any questions about this process.

In addition to all other terms and conditions of coverage, a claims made and reported policy requires two things to fall within the scope of the policy: First, there must be a policy in effect at the time the error or loss occurred. Second, there must be a policy in effect when the claim is first made against you and first reported to the insurer. Both preconditions must occur before coverage exists under the policy.

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When do I pay my deductible?

ALPS will advance settlement and defense costs and send your firm a bill for the deductible at the appropriate time. Copies of defense counsel invoices are sent to you for your firm records but should not be paid directly by you, the Insured.

Notice of a claim must be written in hard copy and delivered to ALPS by regular mail or facsimile. Notice of a claim cannot be delivered to ALPS by e-mail.

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Should I report a claim that is likely to stay within my deductible?

Yes, the policy requires you to report all claims.

In addition to all other terms and conditions of coverage, a claims made and reported policy requires two things to fall within the scope of the policy: First, there must be a policy in effect at the time the error or loss occurred. Second, there must be a policy in effect when the claim is first made against you and first reported to the insurer. Both preconditions must occur before coverage exists under the policy.

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If I am sued for malpractice, who would defend me?

Our claims professionals will work with you to identify the options available. We maintain a panel of local defense counsel that are highly skilled in defending lawyers professional liability claims.

In addition to all other terms and conditions of coverage, a claims made and reported policy requires two things to fall within the scope of the policy: First, there must be a policy in effect at the time the error or loss occurred. Second, there must be a policy in effect when the claim is first made against you and first reported to the insurer. Both preconditions must occur before coverage exists under the policy.

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What does claims made and reported mean?

In addition to all other terms and conditions of coverage, a claims made and reported policy requires two things to fall within the scope of the policy: First, there must be a policy in effect at the time the error or loss occurred. Second, there must be a policy in effect when the claim is first made against you and first reported to the insurer. Both preconditions must occur before coverage exists under the policy.

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