
March 24, 2025
Civil Liability Coverage After a Self-Defense Matter
After going through the legal process involved in a self-defense case, you may still have to deal with potential legal ramifications, including civil lawsuits. Civil liability exists when a person is sued in a court of general jurisdiction by another private party, usually seeking monetary damages. The burden of proof is much higher in criminal cases compared to civil cases; this means it is much easier for you to be found liable in civil court. There are many cases where the person you had to use self-defense against can come back and file a lawsuit against you for doing so, even if your use of force was legally justified.
Understanding the need for civil liability coverage after a self-defense matter is crucial for being properly prepared. Having civil liability coverage is important because it protects you from the financial burdens of civil lawsuits that could follow a self-defense matter, even if you were not criminally charged or convicted in that matter. That is why having the right team of legal professionals representing you, who know your case, can make all the difference.
How Much Civil Liability Coverage We Offer You
When such civil liability arises out of a self-defense-related legal matter, AFF attorneys will represent the client through either dismissal, settlement, or trial. When you are a member of AOR, we will offer you up to $100,000 worth of protection from the financial consequences of being legally responsible for causing bodily injury to someone else. Keep in mind, that the protection extends only to civil judgments where civil liability arises from self-defense-related claims and will cover damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, etc. By being a member of The Attorneys On Retainer, you have unmatched peace of mind in the event you find yourself in a civil case because you are being represented by attorneys you know and trust.
If you are a member of The Attorneys On Retainer, you will receive representation from The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm in a civil lawsuit, following a self-defense matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AOR offer criminal defense, civil defense, or both? And what are the limits?
Regarding self-defense-related legal matters only, AOR includes 100% of your attorneys’ fees through trial and any additional court costs and 3rd party expenses necessary for effective representation. Victim’s rights representation, civil defense, and any necessary appeals are also included without any additional fees, costs, or expenses. AOR also offers up to $50,000 toward bail, $4,000 toward scene cleanup, $1,500 toward mental health counseling services, and $1,000 toward firearm replacement reimbursement.
Does AOR include civil or compensatory damages?
Yes. We now offer up to $100,000 in civil or compensatory damages.
Why did AOR eliminate the 35% discount on attorney's fees for non-self-defense cases?
AOR no longer offers the 35% discount on attorney’s fees for non-self-defense cases because The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm (“AFF”) now accepts only self-defense cases. The attorneys at AFF are focused solely on self-defense cases and do not accept any cases from any retained matter other than self-defense cases. The only exception is when we accept a legal advocacy case to generally advance 2A rights or some other pro-freedom interest.
What is AOR's new civil liability coverage?
Becoming a member of AOR and an affiliate of The Attorneys On Retainer Association now includes civil liability coverage. Members are covered for up to $100,000 in civil liability related to self-defense matters. Additionally, AOR is actively working to increase the amount of civil liability coverage available to members. Details will be available as soon as possible.
What is AOR's new red flag/emergency order coverage?
AOR now provides all members of The AOR Program and affiliates of The Attorneys On Retainer Association with up to $15,000 in legal representation coverage against or challenging emergency orders such as injunctions or orders of protection where the member’s firearm rights were suspended. You DO NOT have to be in a self-defense incident in order to receive this coverage. Additionally, the coverage does not apply to court orders issued in family law court proceedings. AOR is proud to represent members in “red flag” cases.
What is AOR's new expungement/record sealing coverage?
AOR now provides all members and affiliates of The Attorneys On Retainer Association with up to $5,000 in legal representation coverage for fees and expenses incurred on behalf of members for any petition to clear record, set aside conviction, or expunge any conviction as permitted by relevant state law resulting from a member’s involvement in a self-defense-related matter which arose entirely after the member joined AOR.
What is AOR's new online firearms education and training component?
AOR now provides all members and affiliates of The Attorneys On Retainer Association with an online training curriculum focused on the safe and legal ownership and use of firearms and other related self-defense matters. This curriculum includes training on general firearm safety rules, safe handling and storing firearms, practical instruction on loading and firing firearms, and information about legal rights and responsibilities related to firearms and self-defense issues.
Have a Question About AOR Membership?
Our team is ready to walk you through your options. Fill out the form and we’ll be in touch shortly.
Questions? Contact Us
Our team is ready to walk you through your options. Fill out the form and we’ll be in touch shortly.

