News Release

Overwhelming Majority of Americans Are Concerned, But Don't Have a Plan to Deal with Personal Legal Issues That Can Occur

Study: Nearly 70 Percent Experienced Legal Events in The Past Year 

DES MOINES, Iowa – Each May 1, Law Day focuses public attention on the justice system and the rights of citizens under the law. Even as communities and organizations prepare to observe Law Day 2009, a new national study is shedding light on the impact that legal matters can have on our daily lives.

According to a newly-released Russell Research study, almost 90 percent of Americans are concerned about one or more personal matters from a legal standpoint. The study reports nearly 70 percent have experienced at least one legal event in the past year and the vast majority – about 75 percent – don’t have a plan to deal with legal issues that can occur.

Ann Cosimano, JD, ARAG^® general counsel and American Prepaid Legal Services Institute board member, said, “The Russell study reveals the depth of concern Americans have for family, financial, home and other legal-related matters that may have a negative impact on their personal and work lives.” Cosimano noted that Law Day is an opportunity to focus attention on how law and the legal process are instrumental in protecting the freedoms that Americans enjoy.

The ARAG Group is the internationally recognized, independent partner for legal matters and protection. ARAG is the largest family-owned company in the German insurance industry. With its over 3,300 employees, the Group generates sales and premium revenues of over € 1.4 billion. Outside of Germany, ARAG is actively serving customers in 12 other European countries and the United States. ARAG currently holds a leadership position in the US legal insurance market. In addition, the ARAG Group with its legal insurance products is the market leader in Spain and Italy.