LegalShield is a legal services provider that offers individuals, families, and businesses access to legal assistance through a network of partner law firms. By paying a monthly fee, members can consult with attorneys on various legal matters without incurring traditional hourly costs.
Overview of LegalShield
Founded in 1976, LegalShield aims to make legal services more accessible and affordable. The company connects members with qualified attorneys who can provide advice and representation on issues ranging from estate planning and family law to business formation and traffic violations.
Membership Plans and Services
LegalShield offers several membership plans tailored to different needs:
- Personal Legal Plan: Starting at $29.95 per month, this plan provides individuals and families with legal advice, document review, and assistance with personal legal matters.
- Small Business Plan: Designed for business owners, these plans start at $49 per month and offer services such as contract review, debt collection assistance, and legal consultations.
- Commercial Drivers Legal Plan: Starting at $32.95 per month, this plan caters to licensed commercial drivers, offering representation and coverage for work-related legal issues.
Pros of LegalShield Membership
- Affordability: Members pay a fixed monthly fee, which can be more cost-effective than traditional hourly legal rates. This structure allows for budgeting and reduces the financial barrier to accessing legal services.
- Accessibility: LegalShield operates in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, providing members with access to legal assistance regardless of location. The service includes 24/7 emergency legal assistance for certain situations.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Membership includes services such as will preparation, contract review, and legal consultations, covering a wide range of personal and business legal needs.
Cons of LegalShield Membership
- Service Limitations: Some members have reported limitations in the services provided, particularly in states like Massachusetts, where certain services may not be available.
- Mixed Customer Service Experiences: While many members praise the promptness and professionalism of LegalShield's attorneys, others have reported difficulties in communication and dissatisfaction with the legal assistance received.
Member Feedback
Many members have shared positive experiences with LegalShield. For instance, a member from California stated, "My consultation today was to help me through the potential confusion if I am called upon by the doctors to do something that might be medically smart but is absolutely against [my mother's] wishes. The attorney was patient and clear, and very sensitive, in walking me through the issue and I am grateful for the advice of an expert and for having the easy access to that advice."
However, some members have expressed concerns. A reviewer on Sitejabber mentioned, "I signed up and was not able to speak with an attorney. I scheduled like I was supposed to and the attorney never showed twice."
Conclusion
LegalShield offers a range of legal services at a predictable monthly cost, making legal assistance more accessible to many. While numerous members report positive experiences, potential users should be aware of the service's limitations and consider their specific legal needs when evaluating membership. As with any service, it's advisable to research and read current reviews to determine if LegalShield aligns with your legal requirements.