Is there anyone I can talk to if I have a question about the claims process?

An attorney in the Bond Claims Department will be happy to speak with you to answer any questions that you may have regarding the claims process. Please contact Teresa Niederwimmer at 314-965-3333 x107 or 800-843-2277, or E-mail can be sent here.

Should I report to The Bar Plan if the estate brings a claim against my client?

If the estate brings a claim against your client, you should contact The Bar Plan immediately. The Bar Plan is supposed to receive notice of the claim from the Court; however, it is best to contact the company directly. As soon as The Bar Plan knows about a claim, the company will provide any assistance possible to reduce or eliminate your client's liability to the estate.

How do I make a claim on an appeal bond filed for the benefit of my client?

Contact an attorney in the Bond Claims Department at 314-965-3333 or 800-843-2277.  In most cases, if the appellate process has fully concluded, payment will be made directly into the registry of the court that heard the underlying matter.  Typically, payment cannot be released directly to you or your client, nor can The Bar Plan assign a letter of credit or other collateral to you or your client.

What resources does The Bar Plan provide if the estate brings a claim against my client?

The Bar Plan will do everything that it can to help reduce or eliminate your client's liability to the estate. Ultimately, The Bar Plan's interests may become adverse to your client's interests, however, initially, The Bar Plan will cooperate with you to attempt to eliminate the liability. It is in The Bar Plan's best interest to help your client since no liability against your client means that The Bar Plan will not face any liability. If the estate brings a claim against your client, contact one of the bond claims attorneys at The Bar Plan.

Does The Bar Plan offer any risk management services for principals on bonds or their attorneys?

The Bar Plan offers CLE's periodically in Probate Procedures and Attorney Malpractice as it relates to Probate, Trust and Estate Practice. We also provide guidelines for your clients on their duties as a fiduciary. A bond claims attorney will be happy to speak with you about any aspect of the bonding process. We will make every effort to help educate you and your client to prevent claims.