Tag: firearms legal protection

Self Defense Insurance

What Is Self-Defense Insurance? Legal Protection for Responsible Gun Owners

Mark Schneider

Self-defense insurance, also known as concealed carry insurance, provides critical legal protection and financial assistance for individuals who use a firearm or other lawful means of self-defense. When you defend yourself or others in a life-threatening situation, the aftermath can involve significant legal and financial burdens. Self-defense insurance helps mitigate these challenges.

For a side-by-side breakdown of the top plans available, check out our comparison chart here: The Best Self-Defense Insurance Programs Comparison

What Does Self-Defense Insurance Cover?

Typically, self-defense insurance includes:

  • Legal Representation: Coverage for attorneys and legal experts to defend you in criminal and civil court.
  • Bail Bonds: Assistance to post bail if you are arrested after a defensive incident.
  • Civil Liability: Protection against lawsuits that may arise following a justified self-defense event.
  • Expert Witness Fees: Coverage for expert testimony that could strengthen your defense in court.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to court appearances or incarceration.
  • Counseling Services: Assistance covering psychological counseling after a traumatic self-defense incident.

Who Should Consider Self-Defense Insurance?

Self-defense insurance is valuable for:

  • Concealed carry permit holders
  • Homeowners who own firearms for protection
  • Individuals living in high-crime areas
  • Anyone who regularly carries or uses firearms professionally or recreationally

Why Is It Important?

To illustrate how quickly a self-defense incident can escalate into a legal battle, consider this fictional example:

Case Study: John, a Concealed Carrier in a Defensive Shooting

John is a concealed carry permit holder who works late hours. One night while walking to his car in the parking lot, he is approached by an armed individual demanding his wallet. The assailant raises a knife, and John, fearing for his life, draws his legally carried handgun and fires in self-defense, striking the attacker.

Police respond and take John into custody pending investigation. Even though the shooting appears justified, he is arrested, booked, and charged with aggravated assault while prosecutors evaluate the case. John now faces legal fees, bail, missed time from work, and mounting emotional stress.

These expenses could easily exceed $75,000 to $175,000, including legal representation, expert witnesses, bail (often set between $10,000 to $50,000), and time lost from work.

Because John had self-defense insurance, his bail was covered, he was immediately connected with a qualified attorney, and his legal defense costs were paid by his provider. He was eventually cleared of all charges, but without insurance, the financial strain could have been devastating.

Even if your actions are justified, legal fees alone can quickly escalate, potentially reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars. Without insurance, these expenses must be paid out-of-pocket, putting financial stability at significant risk.

Notable Self-Defense Insurance Providers

Looking for a quick side-by-side breakdown of what each plan offers? Visit our full comparison chart here: The Best Self-Defense Insurance Programs Comparison

Notable providers of self-defense insurance include:

  • USCCA (United States Concealed Carry Association)
  • CCW Safe
  • U.S. LawShield
  • Firearms Legal Protection
  • Right to Bear Insurance
  • Attorneys On Retainer

For a side-by-side comparison of coverage, costs, and features, refer to our comprehensive self-defense insurance comparison chart.

Do These Plans Include Attorneys on Retainer?

Most self-defense insurance providers do not provide personal attorneys on retainer in the traditional sense. Instead, they give you access to a network of vetted, experienced self-defense attorneys.

  • After a defensive incident, you contact the provider’s 24/7 emergency hotline.
  • They either assign a qualified attorney from their network or allow you to choose your own, depending on the policy.
  • Some plans cover legal costs upfront, while others reimburse you after the case concludes.

How to Choose a Self-Defense Insurance Policy

When selecting a policy, consider:

  • Coverage Limits: Ensure ample coverage for legal defense, civil damages, and other associated costs.
  • Legal Network: Access to qualified, experienced attorneys familiar with self-defense cases.
  • Policy Exclusions: Understand clearly what scenarios are and aren’t covered.
  • Cost vs. Benefits: Balance the policy’s premiums with the level of protection provided.
  • Reputation and Reviews: Opt for established, reputable providers with positive user feedback.

Conclusion

Self-defense insurance is an essential safety net for anyone prepared to defend themselves or others. It provides peace of mind, knowing you are financially and legally protected should you ever need to take lawful defensive action.

Want help picking the best option? Check out our comprehensive comparison chart here: The Best Self-Defense Insurance Programs Comparison for anyone prepared to defend themselves or others. It provides peace of mind, knowing you are financially and legally protected should you ever need to take lawful defensive action.

News, Self Defense Insurance

Why I No Longer Recommend USCCA For Self Defense Insurance

Mark Schneider

For years, I have recommended USCCA as an option for self-defense insurance to my students. However, after seeing several concerning issues with their pricing, marketing tactics, and overall approach to supporting their members, I can no longer endorse them. If you’re considering self-defense insurance, here’s why I believe USCCA is no longer the best option and which alternatives I now recommend instead.

1. USCCA Has Gotten Too Expensive

USCCA’s membership costs have become increasingly difficult to justify. At $40 per month or $400 per year, their plans are significantly more expensive than many competitors. While they offer some benefits, the cost is simply not competitive when other companies provide similar or better coverage at a fraction of the price.

2. Shady Marketing Practices

One of my biggest issues with USCCA is their aggressive and questionable marketing tactics. They have started marketing directly to my CCW students before they even attend my class, trying to sell their insurance without my knowledge or consent. I find this incredibly unprofessional, and because of this, I will never advertise or book classes through their website again.

3. Relentless Spam and Upselling

USCCA doesn’t just market to students before class—they continue to bombard them with emails and sales pitches afterward. Many of my students have complained about the constant spam, pushing them to buy more products and services. While it’s normal for companies to market their offerings, the overwhelming frequency of USCCA’s emails is excessive and unnecessary.

4. Questionable Case Support

There have been several controversial cases where USCCA backed out of providing legal support, leaving their members stranded. In some of these cases, USCCA acted as if nothing unusual had happened, despite strong criticism from the firearms community. When you pay for self-defense coverage, you need to know your provider will stand behind you when it matters most. Unfortunately, I no longer have confidence that USCCA will do that consistently.

5. Protector Academy Isn’t Worth the Price

USCCA promotes its Protector Academy as a key benefit of membership. While it does contain some good training videos, much of the same content can be found for free on YouTube. The idea of exclusive training sounds great, but in reality, it’s not enough to justify the high membership cost when so many high-quality, free training resources are available elsewhere.

6. Customer Service Issues

There have been numerous complaints about poor customer service and difficulty canceling memberships. Some members have reported being charged even after canceling or having to go through multiple steps just to get a response from USCCA support.

7. False Sense of Security

Many people assume that just having a USCCA membership means they are completely protected in a self-defense situation. However, some of the cases they’ve backed out of show that coverage isn’t guaranteed. This false sense of security could put people in a bad situation if they end up needing legal defense.

8. USCCA’s Shift in Priorities

USCCA started as a self-defense insurance company, but over time, they’ve moved toward being more of a media company—focusing on marketing, training content, and selling products rather than actually providing solid legal protection. This shift has made many in the gun community skeptical of their true priorities.

Better Alternatives to USCCA

If you’re looking for a better and more affordable self-defense insurance option, here are two companies I now recommend:

1. Right to Bear – $13/month

Right to Bear offers comprehensive legal coverage at a fraction of USCCA’s cost. At just $13 per month, it’s a much more affordable option for concealed carriers who want peace of mind without breaking the bank.

2. Firearms Legal Protection (FLP) – $10/month

FLP provides strong self-defense legal protection for as little as $10 per month, making it one of the most budget-friendly choices available. They have a solid reputation for standing behind their members when legal trouble arises.

Check Out My Self-Defense Insurance Comparison Chart

I’ve put together a detailed self-defense insurance comparison chart on my website, where you can see how different providers stack up against each other.

If you’re serious about protecting yourself legally, take a look at the options available and make an informed decision. The right coverage could make all the difference when it matters most.