Why Solicitors Need Critical Illness Cover
A serious diagnosis does not just affect your health – it can stop you working for months or years, create significant additional expenses, and reshape your entire financial situation. Critical illness cover provides a lump sum payment to help you manage these costs.
Solicitors are standard risk for critical illness cover. As a professional earning a significant salary, the financial consequences of a serious illness diagnosis are substantial – particularly if you are a partner or sole practitioner.
High Earners and CIC
For higher-earning solicitors, CIC can be written on a standalone basis to ensure the lump sum is separate from (and in addition to) any life insurance payout. This maximises the financial protection available.
In Trust
Writing CIC in trust ensures the payout reaches you directly without going through your estate, avoiding potential delays from probate.
What Conditions Are Covered?
Most UK CIC policies cover 40–57+ conditions including:
- Cancer (most types)
- Heart attack and heart surgery
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Major organ failure and transplant
- Motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s, dementia
How to Use the Lump Sum
- Clear or reduce your mortgage
- Cover private treatment costs
- Fund home adaptations
- Replace lost income during recovery
- Pay for specialist care or rehabilitation
CIC vs Income Protection
CIC pays a one-off lump sum on diagnosis. Income protection pays a monthly income for as long as you cannot work. Many people benefit from having both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Available from all major providers at standard rates.
35-year-old non-smoker: ~£25–50/month for £100k cover. Varies by provider.
Standalone CIC pays in addition to life cover. Better for higher earners.