Requesting a Lawyer Recommendation
When a legal issue arises, it’s best to submit your insurance claim as soon as possible. We recommend doing this before contacting a lawyer. This way, you can confirm that your legal insurance will cover the costs, giving you peace of mind.
As part of the claims process, you can request a recommendation for an English-speaking lawyer in your area who specializes in the relevant area of law.
Once your claim is approved, the insurance provider can suggest a lawyer who meets your needs.
Important: These recommended lawyers are independent third parties. While we can offer recommendations, it is your responsibility to contact and hire the lawyer, as we cannot guarantee that they will be available to take on your case.
Hiring Your Own Lawyer
While it’s recommended to submit your claim before hiring a lawyer, you are also able to hire a lawyer first, then submit the claim. This may be necessary in urgent situations or when you are certain that you’ll need legal assistance regardless of the claim’s outcome.
In Germany, you are not limited to a specific network of lawyers. You are free to choose any lawyer as long as they bill according to the Lawyer Compensation Act (RVG).
Understanding the Lawyer Compensation Act (RVG)
The Lawyer Compensation Act, or RVG (Rechtsanwaltsvergütungsgesetz) in Germany sets standardized minimum and maximum fees that lawyers can charge for different legal services. This ensures transparency and fairness in legal billing. Some key points about the RVG:
Fixed fees for specific tasks: The RVG outlines what lawyers can charge for various services, such as consultations, court representation, or drafting legal documents.
Reimbursement rules: If you are using legal insurance, your lawyer’s fees must be in line with the RVG to be reimbursed. Flat fees or any other non-RVG-based fees cannot be covered by your legal insurance.
Before hiring a lawyer, make sure they understand that they must provide an invoice that complies with RVG guidelines. This way, your legal costs can be reimbursed under your insurance policy.
Summary
Urgent matters: If the issue is urgent, you can hire a lawyer before submitting a claim, but be aware that the claim still needs to be approved for coverage.
Choosing a lawyer: Other than the requirement to bill according to the RVG, you have complete freedom to choose any lawyer in Germany that suits your needs.
By following these guidelines, you can hire a lawyer with confidence, knowing that your legal insurance will help cover the costs as long as everything complies with the Lawyer Compensation Act (RVG).