D&O insurance
D&O insurance, or Directors and Officers Liability Insurance, is a type of liability insurance that is designed to protect directors and officers of companies from legal action taken against them in connection with the performance of their duties.
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The coverage provided by D&O insurance typically includes:
- Legal defense costs: D&O insurance policies will cover the legal defense costs of directors and officers who are sued or subject to a regulatory investigation or inquiry.
- Settlements or judgments: If a lawsuit or regulatory action results in a settlement or judgment against a director or officer, D&O insurance will typically cover the costs up to the policy limits.
- Personal liability protection: D&O insurance can also provide protection for directors and officers against personal liability arising from their role in the company.
D&O insurance is typically purchased by companies on behalf of their directors and officers, although individuals can also purchase the coverage themselves. The policy can be customized to provide coverage for different types of claims, including shareholder lawsuits, regulatory actions, and employment-related claims.
In summary, D&O insurance is an important form of liability insurance that provides protection for directors and officers against legal action taken against them in connection with the performance of their duties.
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What is the difference between E&O and D&O insurance?
E&O insurance (Errors and Omissions) and D&O insurance (Directors and Officers Liability Insurance) are both types of liability insurance that provide protection against legal claims. However, there are some key differences between the two types of insurance.
E&O insurance is designed to protect professionals from claims of negligence or mistakes made in the course of their work. This type of insurance is typically purchased by professionals such as lawyers, accountants, and consultants, and covers claims such as malpractice, errors, or omissions. E&O insurance can also be referred to as professional liability insurance.
D&O insurance, on the other hand, is designed to protect directors and officers of companies from legal action taken against them in connection with the performance of their duties. This type of insurance is typically purchased by companies and provides coverage for claims such as breach of fiduciary duty, wrongful acts, or securities violations.
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The key difference between E&O and D&O insurance is that E&O insurance covers claims arising from professional mistakes or negligence, while D&O insurance covers claims arising from the actions and decisions of company directors and officers.