From Coverage to Courtroom: Navigating Lawyers’ Professional Liability Claims
Join ISBA Mutual for From Coverage to Courtroom: Navigating Lawyers’ Professional Liability Claims, a hybrid learning experience designed to help Illinois attorneys better understand the complex landscape of legal malpractice and professional liability exposure.
Attendees can attend in person or virtually:
In Person: ISBA Mutual Office, 20 S Clark St, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60603
Virtual: Live via Zoom
Whether you’re attending in person at our downtown Chicago office or joining via Zoom, this one-hour session will explore the full lifecycle of lawyers’ professional liability claims—from initial coverage analysis through litigation strategy. Attendees will gain practical insight into how insurance policy language, claims handling processes, and day-to-day legal practices can impact the outcome of a malpractice dispute.
Using real-world examples and informed analysis, this session highlights the roles of insurers, defense counsel, and the insured attorney, offering attendees a practical roadmap for navigating professional liability issues in the legal field.
What “From Coverage to Courtroom” Teaches Attendees
Understanding Key Provisions in Lawyers’ Professional Liability Insurance Policies
Gain a working knowledge of the essential clauses found in every lawyer’s professional liability policy—such as claims-made triggers, exclusions, reporting requirements, and consent-to-settle provisions. Learn how these terms affect coverage decisions, defense obligations, and settlement outcomes. By understanding the language of your policy, you can better anticipate how coverage will apply in the event of a claim.
How Legal Malpractice Claims Arise and Are Handled
Examine how malpractice allegations typically emerge, including client complaints, missed deadlines, and conflicts of interest. Attendees will follow the step-by-step progression of a claim—from the initial incident and claim notification through insurance evaluation, appointment of defense counsel, and potential litigation. Real-world case studies will shed light on the legal and procedural aspects of these claims.
The Link Between Everyday Legal Practice and Potential Liability
Discover how routine actions—such as client communication, documentation habits, and conflict checks—can become the basis for professional liability claims. The session will explore how lapses in practice management, even minor ones, can escalate into costly disputes and highlight how ethical lapses can trigger both disciplinary action and coverage complications.
Risk Mitigation Strategies to Protect Your Legal Practice
Walk away with a clear set of risk management best practices designed to reduce your exposure to claims. Topics will include internal firm policies, documentation standards, engagement letter language, and the role of continuing education in maintaining a strong defense posture. These proactive measures are vital to safeguarding your reputation and ensuring compliance with both ethical and insurance standards.
About Our Speakers
Scott Dutton
Chief Relationship Officer
ISBA Mutual
Scott Dutton is the Chief Relationship Officer at ISBA Mutual Insurance Company, where he leads strategic partnerships and client engagement initiatives for the Illinois legal community. With over 30 years of experience in professional liability insurance, Scott has held leadership roles across the industry and previously founded PLI Risk Solutions. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and DePaul University graduate, he is recognized for his client-first approach, entrepreneurial mindset, and deep expertise in insurance and risk management.
Mosea Harris, CPCU
Senior Claims & Risk Manager
ISBA Mutual
Mosea Harris, CPCU, is the Senior Claims and Risk Manager at ISBA Mutual Insurance Company, where he oversees complex liability claims and provides strategic risk management support to Illinois law firms. With over eight years of experience at ISBA Mutual and deep expertise in professional liability and litigation management, Mosea is recognized for his analytical approach and commitment to helping legal professionals navigate risk. He holds a B.A. in Economics from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Divinity from Virginia Union University, bringing a unique blend of financial insight and ethical leadership to his work.
Who Should Attend This Hybrid Event?
This program is ideal for Illinois attorneys, firm risk managers, and legal professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of malpractice exposure, insurance coverage for attorneys, and the legal and ethical responsibilities that shape claim outcomes.
Reserve your spot today to join us in person or online for this timely and informative discussion on navigating lawyers’ professional liability claims—from policy coverage to courtroom strategy.