Professional Indemnity Insurance
Breaking News - Forensic Science Society Launches Insurance Scheme
Earlier this year, the Supreme Court’s decision in the case of Jones vs Kaney removed the immunity from prosecution previously enjoyed by expert witnesses.
The result of this ruling is that Forensic Scientists can be made personally liable for the work they undertake, including any expert testimony given in court.
In response, FSSoc has acted swiftly to protect members from this new exposure and consulted with scheme insurance specialists The Insurance Partnership to devise a member insurance scheme. The scheme was recently launched at the Autumn Conference and is the only dedicated insurance scheme for Forensic Scientists in the UK.
Underwritten by Hiscox and designed in collaboration with FSSoc, the scheme offers a tailor made insurance package for individual members to cover against claims arising out of professional negligence, errors and omissions or breach of professional duty arising out of forensic research, examination, consultancy and expert witness work. A Court Summons cover extension is included to reimburse those who are called unexpectedly to court and have to rearrange holiday travel arrangements.
The scheme will greatly assist those who may be looking to set up new ventures following closure of the FSS and includes a free Business HR service for small businesses.
Additional cover is available for liability, personal property and worldwide travel.
The scheme also includes a “run off” cover provision for those who cease from practising but whose past work may be challenged at some point in the future. This aspect of cover is of renewed importance now that individuals can now be personally liable for the work they have done in the past.
A Business Insurance package for forensic laboratories and research premises is also available and for established organisations The Insurance Partnership has agreed to offer a free initial insurance and contractual review to ensure that the risks associated with your future and past activities are fully understood and covered.
For more details please see the membership benefits area of the FSSoc website. All enquiries to be directed to Paul Buckle on 01482 388597 or email
FSSoc@insurance-partnership.com
http://www.insurance-partnership.com/insurance-broking/insurance-broking-services/forensic-science-society-insurance-scheme