Having a firearm may help you protect yourself in the worst-case scenario. Hopefully, you’ll never have to actually use your gun to defend yourself, but if you do, it’s important to be prepared. Even if it seems like the situation was a straightforward case of self-defense, you may face criminal charges after using your firearm.
Having a skilled attorney to defend you and help you during the process of clearing your name is highly valuable. However, it’s also likely to be expensive. This is where self-defense liability insurance, also called concealed carry insurance, comes in. These policies can help cover the costs of legal representation if you use your gun to defend yourself or your loved ones. They also often cover defense and damages in civil court, as well as other expenses.
Note that this article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice.
What Self-Defense Liability Insurance Covers
Coverage varies depending on the provider and policy you choose for your concealed carry insurance.
Some of the expenses a policy may cover include:
- Civil Defense & Damages: In addition to facing criminal charges, you may face a suit in civil court for damages due to firing your gun in self-defense. Many policies offer coverage for defense against civil suits and for coverage of damages.
- Criminal Defense: If you’re charged with a crime (such as aggravated assault or homicide) due to a self-defense incident, you’ll likely want to hire a criminal defense attorney. Some policies offer money toward a retainer or legal fees in criminal court.
- Bail Bond: Your concealed carry insurance may offer assistance with covering a bail bond, if necessary.
- Compensation For Time In Court: Even if your legal expenses are covered, you’ll likely have to take time off work to defend yourself in court, which can put a strain on your finances. Some self-defense liability insurance policies offer reimbursement for time spent in court.
Depending on the policy, you may be reimbursed after the fact or get these funds during the legal process. It’s generally best to find a policy that helps you during your defense rather than after, as many people do not have the resources available to fund a legal battle without assistance.
Situations Not Covered by Concealed Carry Insurance
It’s important to be aware that self-defense liability insurance does not protect anyone who has committed a crime. This means that the incident in which a firearm was used must actually be self-defense. If the court determines that it was not, coverage will cease.
Is Self-Defense Liability Insurance Worth It?
Concealed carry insurance is a great way to protect yourself legally and financially if the worst-case scenario occurs and you need to use your firearm for self-defense. You should be sure to read the policy you are interested in to determine what its limitations are, but for the most part, this type of insurance is a great investment.
USCCA
The Hub is a proud partner of the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA). They offer self-defense training as well as liability insurance for responsible gun owners.
