No one expects to be sued. No one expects to need to hire an attorney to protect their career. However, federal employees are increasingly vulnerable to civil lawsuits and administrative actions. If an allegation is made against you, are you aware of your rights as a federal employee? Are you prepared to vigorously defend yourself even if the allegation is baseless? Do you have professional liability insurance in place to help you in these trying matters? Challenge yourself below to test your knowledge of why professional liability insurance is critical for the federal workforce.
True or False
1. FEDS professional liability insurance (PLI) is only for managers and supervisors.
False. FEDS Protection provides PLI policies for federal employees and federal contractors. However, federal managers and supervisors (along with federal law enforcement officers) are eligible for premium reimbursement due to the increased exposures inherent in their positions.
2. DOJ will always assign you representation if you are sued.
False. DOJ representation is not automatic and can be denied. Moreover, even if DOJ represents you in a civil lawsuit, DOJ can decline to indemnify you—meaning you could still be liable for any monetary judgments.
However, FEDS Protection includes up to $2 million in coverage for civil lawsuits, allowing FEDS members to defend themselves even if they are declined representation or indemnification from DOJ.
3. All OIG interviews are mandatory (i.e. compelled).
False. You should always consult with an attorney before you meet with the IG to know your rights.
4. The agency will defend me if an EEO complaint is filed against me.
False. Even though the EEO complaint is against the agency and not you personally, the agency lawyers are responsible for defending the agency and their duty of loyalty is to the agency and not you personally. Moreover, if there is a finding of discrimination, you can be disciplined by the Agency because of the Agency even though they were the one that defended it.
On the other hand, FEDS Protection provides legal representation for defending against civil lawsuits and administrative allegations for an annual premium as low as $290 a year—less than what one hour with a typical federal employment attorney would cost.
How many did you get right? Did any answers surprise you? If you have additional questions about potential exposures of your job or want to learn more about FEDS Protection professional liability insurance, contact us online or call us at 866-955-FEDS(3337).