Can Self-Defense Insurance Protect You in Bowie, MD
Self-defense insurance is becoming more popular across the country, including in Maryland. Some jurisdictions have even considered making the insurance mandatory for those who conceal carry, although no requirement exists in Maryland. While it’s not something most of us think about, using a gun in self-defense, even when totally justified, can land you in legal trouble. Defending against criminal charges or civil lawsuits can be extremely expensive. Self-defense or CCW insurance can provide financial and legal protection. But is it worth it? And what restrictions exist for these policies?
At Carey Law Office, we’re ready to fight for your freedom if you’re facing gun-related charges. Here’s how CCW insurance may or may not become a factor in your defense.
Why choose Carey Law Office?
At Carey Law Office, we treat every client like a person, not a case number. Since 1981, we’ve been representing individuals in Bowie, Maryland, and helping them through some of the most challenging times in their lives. We have a local presence in the area and a proven track record of successful outcomes in self-defense and weapons charges cases. Our team is here to get you through this.
How we can help
- What is self-defense insurance?
- Is concealed carry insurance legal in Maryland?
- What does CCW insurance typically cover?
- What coverage gaps should you watch for?
- Real-life cases where CCW insurance made a difference
- Do you really need insurance if you carry in Maryland?
- Cost of coverage: Is it worth it?
- How a criminal defense lawyer can help—Even with insurance
- What to do after a self-defense shooting in Bowie
- Do you have an attorney near me in Bowie who can handle my self-defense case?
- Contact our Bowie criminal defense team
What is self-defense insurance?
Self-defense or CCW insurance provides liability coverage or personal defense protection for gun owners. For instance, it may provide legal and financial support to a person after they use a firearm in self-defense. There are many companies that offer this type of coverage, including CCW Safe, USCCA, and Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network.
Is concealed carry insurance legal in Maryland?
Yes, concealed carry insurance is legal in Maryland, and it is available through multiple providers. CCW Safe offers a more comprehensive membership plan, whereas other companies are formal insurance underwriters.
Whether you have insurance or not, you still have to comply with state training and licensing requirements.
What does CCW insurance typically cover?
Plans differ in what they cover and their limits. Some of what they might cover includes:
- Criminal defense attorney fees
- Civil lawsuit representation
- Bail bond costs
- Trial expenses (including costs like hiring expert witnesses or private investigators to help build your defense)
- Lost wages if you miss work to attend court
- Some psychological support or counseling is offered in certain policies
- Option to choose your own lawyer or use a network attorney
Policies vary significantly in their limits and the coverage they provide. If you choose to buy CCW insurance, you need to take time to understand what you are actually getting.
What coverage gaps should you watch for?
Sometimes coverage might have gaps or limitations that will leave you unprotected. For instance, they may only pay a certain amount of civil damages. Let’s say there is a $500,000 judgment against you. If the policy limits are $250,000, it can leave you exposed.
There are also possible exclusions for off-duty law enforcement officers, individuals with prior felony convictions, unregistered weapons, or carrying without a permit. The policy may even have restrictions based on carrying without a permit in jurisdictions where permits aren’t required, so read all of the fine print. While Maryland does require a permit, this could be important for residents who travel armed across state lines.
Additionally, you should understand if the policy requires you to pay upfront. Some offer reimbursement rather than covering the costs directly.
Real-life cases where CCW insurance made a difference
There have been real-life cases where a gun owner had to turn to their CCW or self-defense insurance policy for coverage after they used a firearm to protect themselves or their families. The Wall Street Journal even covered some of these scenarios in an article. In one case, a homeowner in Florida was covered after criminal charges were dropped against him under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law, but the civil case was settled. That case points out an important consideration–the gun owner didn’t need to be criminally convicted in order for the civil charges to result in costs.
In another case, a man in California used his coverage after he defended himself from someone who attempted to break into his van while he was sleeping inside.
While these cases show how useful a policy can be, there are times when coverage has not helped a person. Most notably, the policies will not cover a person if it is determined that they did not act in self-defense. This scenario did play out involving a woman who shot her estranged husband and attempted, unsuccessfully, to apply her coverage.
Also, it might not cover you if your weapon accidentally discharges. If you don’t have Maryland-specific training, you might be out of luck.
Do you really need insurance if you carry in Maryland?
Maryland is not a "Stand Your Ground" state. You may have a duty to retreat depending on the scenario. Sadly, it’s not uncommon for a person acting in self-defense to face criminal charges. As mentioned earlier, even if you didn’t do anything criminal and never get convicted, you could face expensive criminal defense costs and a civil lawsuit from an injured person or their family. These cases can lead to bankruptcies and extreme financial hardship. Also, in many cases, homeowners’ insurance is unlikely to cover you if you engage in an “intentional act.”
Cost of coverage: Is it worth it?
The cost of coverage can vary greatly depending on the level of protection and other factors. For instance, plans might start at under $20 a month, but can cost closer to $50 for more extensive coverage.
There could be options for basic defense vs. unlimited legal fees, civil damages, and income replacement.
How a criminal defense lawyer can help—Even with insurance
Some policies require that you use their network of approved lawyers. Others let you choose your own representative. Be sure you know which approach applies to your policy. You want someone who has experience handling cases in Bowie, who is familiar with the court’s prosecutors and local court procedure. Remember that your criminal defense lawyer is there to fight to protect your rights. Whether you have coverage or not, you need someone there to look out for you.
What to do after a self-defense shooting in Bowie
If you find yourself involved in a self-defense shooting in Bowie, you need to act right away to protect your future. Here are the steps to take:
- Call 911 immediately. Do not flee the scene.
- Call your attorney immediately and avoid making statements until they advise you.
- Secure the weapon if possible, and do not continue to handle it.
- If you have CCW insurance, contact the hotline.
- Rely on your lawyer to guide you through the rest of the process.
Even when you act appropriately and lawfully, you have to look out for yourself. Never assume everything will just work out.
Do you have an attorney near me in Bowie who can handle my self-defense case?
Our office is located at 14300 Gallant Fox Ln, Suite 223. You’ll find us right off Rte. 197 (Laurel Bowie Rd) in the office park behind the McDonald’s.
Contact our Bowie criminal defense team
Contact Carey Law Office today if you are facing charges because you acted in self-defense. Whether or not you have coverage, we are here to listen to you and to fight to protect your rights and future. We can offer you immediate support if you’re already under investigation or facing charges. It’s our job to stand between you and a justice system that may seek to hold you accountable just for exercising your right to protect yourself. Contact us today.