More than ever, intelligence officers are working overtime to protect our Nation's security. Public awareness of the long list of successes of the CIA, DIA, DHS, FBI, NGA, NRO, NSA, ONI and ODNI are rarely discussed or reported - this is clearly not the case when there is some kind of perceived human or system failure.

Politically motivated criticisms and demands of accountability on national security issues have resulted in both administrative and criminal investigations of intelligence officers at all levels—and this is particularly the case in the post 9/11 arena. It is because of these investigations and exposures that professional liability insurance (PLI) is available for all those involved in national security.

For instance, many recall the 9/11 Congressional and Commission hearings (and maybe a few since then)—if you had PLI and were called to testify before one of those proceedings, you would have been appointed your own attorney to prepare and represent you at the proceeding.

And for many CIA and other intelligence employees, the cost of this insurance is 100 percent reimbursable by your agency (please check with your Office of General Counsel for information and eligibility for the full reimbursement).

For coverage effective immediately, buy now.

There are three areas of exposure that a professional liability policy responds to for intelligence personnel: civil law suits, administrative and disciplinary matters, and criminal investigations. For instance, PLI becomes necessary when:

• Personal capacity lawsuits (i.e., Bivens action);
• Congressional, OIG or other administrative matters/investigations; and
• Criminal Investigations.

For additional information on how FEDS protects intelligence officers in the event of the above instances, read Civil Benefits, Administrative Benefits and Criminal Benefits.

These exposures are the very reason that Congress enacted special legislation requiring all federal agencies to reimburse all managers, supervisors and law enforcement officers up to ½ of the cost of professional liability insurance. And for many in the intelligence community, you may be eligible to have the entire cost paid for by your agency (again, please consult with the General Counsel’s Office to determine your eligibility for the full reimbursement). This congressional action clearly demonstrates Congress’ official support and belief that intelligence officers should have a sense of security while making the tough decisions that are part of the job.

Whether you get the 100 percent, 50 percent or no reimbursement, with the annual costs at $270 for our minimum coverage limit, there is no reason for intelligence officers/employees not to have career and financial security protections in place.

FEDS continually works with many law enforcement and intelligence communities and associations to ensure that we provide the protection officers need to do their jobs. Please read what these associations and other industry leaders have to say about professional protection and why they recommend FEDS in testimonials and endorsements.

FEDS founder, a former employee of a federal law enforcement agency, has successfully defended federal employees in private practice and encourages all federal employees to be as informed as possible about the benefits of having PLI protection in place. Read more about how and why FEDS got started here. And if you can't find answers to your questions in Frequently Asked Questions , please call us at 301-229-2481.