Celebrating 30 Years of the FOP Legal Defense Plan

In 1995, the Fraternal Order of Police made a promise to its members: that no officer would ever stand alone when facing legal challenges in the line of duty. That promise became the FOP Legal Defense Plan.

Now, 30 years later, that commitment remains as strong as ever. With more than 125,000 participants, over 57,000 claims serviced, and more than $165 million paid in legal defense, the Plan has grown into one of the most valued protections the FOP offers.

The FOP Legal Defense Plan was created specifically to support the legal defense needs of law enforcement officers—needs that are as complex as the profession itself. From internal investigations and disciplinary actions to civil lawsuits and criminal charges, officers face significant legal exposure. The Plan was built to meet these realities head-on, offering members a trusted safeguard in moments of uncertainty.

What Sets the Plan Apart

What sets the Plan apart is its unwavering focus on law enforcement. It isn't a generic legal policy; it's a purpose-built program designed with and for officers. Participation is exclusive to FOP members in good standing, and the Plan is managed by a Board of Trustees composed entirely of active or retired law enforcement professionals and FOP members. Their oversight ensures the Legal Plan not only remains financially strong but also aligns with the mission of the FOP and the needs of those it protects.

"When Hylant first began working with the FOP, there was no roadmap—just a shared belief that officers deserve protection for the risks they face both on and off duty. Together with FOP leadership, we built the Legal Defense Plan from scratch, one member at a time. It's incredibly rewarding to see what started as a whiteboard concept grow into a national program with over 125,000 members. The trust the FOP placed in us, and their vision, is something I'll always be proud to have been part of."

— Richard Hylant, Chief Insurance Officer

Comprehensive Coverage for Members

Our Plan includes administrative defense for both on-duty and off-duty actions and civil and criminal defense when actions arise out of the scope of employment. These actions can have real consequences for a member's employment. For retired law enforcement officers, the Concealed Carry Coverage (CCC) provides peace of mind, covering all reasonable and necessary legal defense costs tied to legally carrying or using a concealed firearm under LEOSA or if legally carrying as a retired law enforcement officer in your state.

The Plan is straightforward, member-focused and designed to deliver quickly and efficiently. Members have the freedom to choose their own attorney. When a covered claim is processed, the Plan pays attorney fees and costs directly. There are no deductibles and no coverage caps when utilizing a Plan Attorney. A member has immediate representation when needed most.

Voices from the Early Days

The Legal Plan's success today is rooted in the foundational work of early contributors, like longtime FOP Legal Plan attorney Christopher Carlsen. He recalled how his involvement began with a call from the General Counsel to the National FOP President at the time:

"He said he wanted to assemble a group of lawyers who specialized in the various areas of law and that the FOP needed a 'boutique' approach to legal defense. A few weeks later, I found myself in a Chicago hotel, a little uncertain and nervous to see what this FOP Legal Defense Plan thing was all about. I would have never dreamt that the plan would grow as large as it has. I'm humbled to have played a part in the tremendous growth of this critical plan."

— Christopher Carlsen, FOP Legal Plan Attorney

Impact Across the Country

Some of the Legal Plan's greatest impacts happen behind the scenes. In cases across the country — many of them high-profile and high-stakes — the Legal Plan has stood behind officers through the most difficult moments of their careers.

• In Washington, the Legal Plan has paid over $4 million to date defending an officer involved in a shooting.
• In Tennessee, legal costs exceeded $1.5 million in a similar case.
• From California and Colorado to North Carolina and Kentucky, the Legal Plan has delivered trusted, consistent legal protection in real-world scenarios that could have otherwise left members and their families financially and professionally devastated.

Every claim matters. Whether the claim cost is $4,000 or $400 million, the goal is the same: to protect the rights, reputation, and futures of those who serve. The Board monitors claim trends and plan utilization, adapting when necessary to ensure members are covered today and prepared for tomorrow.

Coverage also includes an unlimited extended reporting period, allowing members to report claims even after leaving the Plan, as long as the incident occurred while coverage was active.

"In today's challenging climate, where law enforcement officers often face intense scrutiny and complex situations, the FOP Legal Defense Plan stands as more than a benefit—it's a lifeline. It's a shared promise, honored through unwavering action, reflecting our deep belief that every officer deserves steadfast support."

— Steve James, President, Board of Trustees, FOP Legal Defense Plan

For members not yet enrolled, the message is clear: Coverage under the FOP Legal Defense Plan is not something to wait for. It is one of the most important protections available to FOP members and a powerful reminder that you are not facing challenges alone.

Looking Ahead

After three decades of service, the Legal Plan continues to grow, evolve, and lead. The Legal Plan defends those who protect, and it does so with experience, compassion, and integrity. As we celebrate 30 years of the FOP Legal Defense Plan, we look back with pride—and forward with purpose and a continued commitment to protect those who serve and protect others.