Lawyers enrolled with the Czech Bar Association (ČAK) will, from 2027, be able to extend their professional liability cover to activities performed as an arbitrator or mediator through a separate rider attached to the group insurance scheme. The option is offered on more favourable terms than previously available and forms part of a wider package of improvements negotiated for the coming year.
The ČAK arranges mandatory group professional liability insurance for advocates through the broker WIASS ČR, with cover currently placed with Generali Česká pojišťovna (GČP). Following negotiations between WIASS, GČP and Bar representatives, several terms were revised for 2027.
What changes for 2027
- The annual premium falls to CZK 6,700, down from CZK 7,200, with the same indemnity limit retained.
- The indemnity limit remains CZK 7,500,000 per insured event, doubled for all events arising in a single insurance year.
- The interpretation of legal practice is broadened in the area of asset and estate administration.
- Activity as an arbitrator or mediator may be included by way of a separate rider within the individual policy that supplements the lawyer's group cover.
The premium reduction reflects a review of general inflation trends. Inflationary pressure had, since 2024, driven increases to both the indemnity limit and the premium through an inflation clause; the latest negotiations return the premium to its pre-clause level while keeping the current indemnity limit in place. The scheme's representatives noted that the outcome was reached despite a less favourable claims record.
The treatment of estate administration as part of legal practice applies where it concerns the administration of another's property within the meaning of the relevant provisions of the Act on the Legal Profession, a position supported by ČAK representatives during the talks.
Practical points for practitioners
Advocates become participants in the group cover automatically upon registration in the ČAK list of advocates. They remain covered unless they provide the ČAK, by the end of the calendar year, with confirmation of individually arranged cover for the following year.
For arbitrators and mediators who also practise as advocates, the new rider offers a straightforward route to insuring that work within the existing group framework. Practitioners wishing to renew supplementary policies, arrange new individual riders or address other requirements are directed to WIASS ČR, which manages the annual renewal process.