LegalShield Review: Is LegalShield Worth It?

Dealing with legal issues can be stressful, confusing, and—above all—expensive. From reviewing contracts and creating a will to handling landlord disputes or small business matters, even simple legal questions can cost hundreds of dollars per hour when you hire a traditional attorney.

That’s where LegalShield comes in.

LegalShield is one of the pioneers in the legal subscription space, offering affordable, on-demand access to licensed attorneys across the United States for a flat monthly fee. 

Instead of paying by the hour, members pay a predictable rate and get help with everyday legal issues through the LegalShield app or by phone—24/7 for covered emergencies.

In this review, we’ll take a close look at everything LegalShield offers—its plans, pricing, key features, pros and cons, and how it compares to alternatives like Rocket Lawyer and LegalZoom.

By the end, you’ll know exactly whether LegalShield is worth it, who it’s best suited for, and why it remains one of the most trusted names in legal services today.

What Is LegalShield?

LegalShield is a membership-based legal service designed to make professional legal help accessible and affordable for everyday people. Founded in 1972 (originally as Pre-Paid Legal Services), the company has grown into one of the largest legal networks in North America, serving millions of members across the United States and Canada.

At its core, LegalShield connects individuals, families, and small business owners with licensed attorneys in their state through a simple monthly subscription. Instead of worrying about unpredictable hourly fees, members pay a flat rate and gain access to a wide range of legal services—from consultations and contract reviews to drafting wills and handling traffic tickets.

LegalShield partners with experienced law firms in each state, ensuring members receive advice and representation from attorneys familiar with local laws and court systems.

It’s not a do-it-yourself document service like LegalZoom or Rocket Lawyer; it’s a direct attorney network, meaning you’re speaking with real lawyers who can provide personalized legal guidance whenever you need it.

Whether you’re dealing with a landlord dispute, reviewing a new business contract, or simply want the peace of mind of having a lawyer “on call,” LegalShield aims to bridge the gap between costly traditional law firms and the growing need for affordable legal protection.

Visit LegalShield's Website to Learn More.

How LegalShield Works

LegalShield operates much like a subscription-based legal concierge — giving you direct access to a network of attorneys without the steep hourly rates. Once you choose your plan and become a member, you can contact a lawyer anytime through the LegalShield mobile app, website, or by phone. Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Choose a Plan. LegalShield offers separate plans for individuals, families, and small businesses. Each plan is priced monthly and includes a defined range of services like consultations, document reviews, and legal letter writing.
2. Connect with a Local Attorney. When you have a legal question or issue, you simply submit a request through the app or call the LegalShield hotline. You’re then connected to a licensed attorney in your state who specializes in the area of law you need help with — whether that’s family, real estate, consumer, or business law.
3. Receive Legal Guidance. Your attorney will review your situation and provide advice over the phone or in writing. They can also review contracts and legal documents (up to a certain page limit), write letters on your behalf, or even make phone calls to help resolve disputes.
4. 24/7 Emergency Access. For serious matters — like being detained, served with legal papers, or involved in an accident — LegalShield offers around-the-clock emergency assistance. This ensures you’re never left without guidance when timing matters most.
5. Ongoing Support. Members can use the service as often as needed for covered matters without additional fees. The LegalShield app also makes it easy to upload documents, track case progress, and reach your law firm directly.

In short, LegalShield simplifies what has traditionally been an intimidating and expensive process. Instead of scrambling to find a lawyer at the last minute, members enjoy the peace of mind of having legal help on standby whenever issues arise — personal or professional.

LegalShield Plans and Pricing

One of LegalShield’s biggest selling points is its straightforward pricing. Instead of unpredictable hourly rates or expensive retainers, you pay a flat monthly fee that covers a wide range of legal services. The cost depends on whether you need coverage for yourself, your family, or your business — but overall, the pricing is very competitive for the level of access it provides.

Personal Legal Plan

LegalShield’s Personal Plan is designed for individuals and families who want affordable access to attorneys for everyday legal matters. For around $29.95 per month, members can consult with lawyers on issues like landlord disputes, traffic tickets, family law, debt collection, and more. Key features include:

• Unlimited legal advice on personal matters
• Review of legal documents (up to 15 pages each)
• Letters and phone calls made on your behalf
• Will preparation for you and your spouse
• 24/7 emergency access for covered situations

Small Business Legal Plan

Entrepreneurs and small business owners can join a Small Business Plan, which starts around $49 per month (depending on business size). This plan provides ongoing legal guidance for company formation, contract reviews, debt collection letters, and other common issues business owners face. Coverage includes:

• Consultation on business-related matters
• Contract and document review
• Debt collection help
• Assistance with hiring, firing, and HR issues
• Trial defense hours (depending on the plan level)

Family and Identity Theft Plans

LegalShield also offers add-on options such as:

• Family Plan: Extends personal legal protection to your spouse and dependents.
• IDShield: An identity-theft monitoring and restoration service that helps protect your credit, online accounts, and personal data.

Each plan can be managed directly through the LegalShield mobile app, where you can connect with your attorney, upload documents, or check your membership benefits at any time.

Overall, LegalShield’s pricing structure makes it easy to know exactly what you’ll pay each month—no surprise bills, no hourly charges. For many households and small businesses, that predictability alone can be worth the cost.

What’s Included: Key Features

LegalShield’s appeal lies in how much protection it offers for a modest monthly price.

While the exact benefits depend on the plan you choose, most memberships include a generous mix of preventive legal services, document help, and representation support that covers both routine and unexpected issues. Here are the standout features members can expect:

1. Unlimited Legal Consultations

Members can speak with an attorney about virtually any personal or business legal matter without worrying about hourly fees. Whether it’s reviewing a lease, handling a neighbor dispute, or clarifying your rights in an employment situation, LegalShield gives you quick, reliable access to professional advice.

2. Legal Document Review

Attorneys will review contracts and other legal documents (typically up to 15 pages) to help you understand what you’re signing and protect your interests. This is particularly valuable for renters, freelancers, and small business owners who frequently sign agreements.

3. Letters and Phone Calls on Your Behalf

If a situation requires formal action, your attorney can send letters or make phone calls on your behalf to resolve issues quickly. This can make a significant difference in getting results—especially in disputes with landlords, creditors, or service providers.

4. Will Preparation and Estate Planning

Each personal or family plan includes preparation of a standard Will and living will, plus annual updates at no additional cost. Many members find this feature alone justifies the membership fee, since standalone estate services can easily cost hundreds elsewhere.

5. Trial Defense and Representation

LegalShield plans include a set number of trial defense hours that increase with each year of membership, helping you if you ever need in-court representation. While it won’t cover major criminal cases or large-scale litigation, it does provide peace of mind for smaller civil matters.

6. 24/7 Emergency Legal Assistance

Members can reach an attorney any time, day or night, for covered emergencies—such as being detained by police, served with a warrant, or involved in a serious accident.

7. Identity Theft Monitoring (via IDShield)

For those who add IDShield, members get access to real-time credit monitoring, dark web alerts, and full restoration services if their identity is compromised. The combination of legal protection and identity monitoring makes this a comprehensive personal security package.

In short, LegalShield covers nearly every common legal scenario most people face—from preventive advice to hands-on representation. It’s not designed for complex corporate litigation, but for everyday legal needs, the coverage is remarkably complete and easy to use.

Visit LegalShield's Website to Learn More.

LegalShield Pros and Cons

Like any subscription-based service, LegalShield has its strengths and limitations. While it offers exceptional value for everyday legal needs, it’s important to understand where it shines — and where it might fall short — before signing up.

Pros

1. Affordable and Predictable Pricing. LegalShield’s biggest advantage is cost transparency. Instead of unpredictable hourly billing, members pay a flat monthly rate that covers consultations, document reviews, and basic representation. This model makes it easy to budget for legal expenses and avoid costly surprises.

2. Access to Licensed Attorneys in All 50 States. LegalShield partners with vetted law firms in every U.S. state, ensuring members work with local lawyers familiar with regional laws. This makes it far more reliable than general online legal form services that don’t offer personalized guidance.

3. Convenience and Ease of Use. The LegalShield mobile app allows members to contact an attorney, upload documents, or request follow-up directly from their phone. For busy individuals and small business owners, this convenience is a major selling point.

4. Broad Range of Legal Coverage. From traffic tickets and landlord disputes to business contracts and family legal matters, LegalShield covers an impressive range of issues for one low price. Many members find they use the service more often than expected once they realize how accessible it is.

5. Great for Preventive Legal Protection. LegalShield helps you avoid problems before they escalate. Having an attorney review documents or give advice early can prevent costly mistakes later — something traditional law firms rarely make affordable.

Cons

1. Limited for Complex or High-Stakes Cases. While LegalShield offers excellent coverage for routine matters, major cases like divorce litigation, criminal defense, or large corporate lawsuits typically require additional representation and costs.

2. Quality May Vary by Law Firm. Because LegalShield contracts with local firms in each state, the experience can vary depending on the firm’s responsiveness or workload. Most users report positive experiences, but quality can differ slightly from region to region.

3. Some Services Have Page or Time Limits. Document reviews, for example, are usually capped at 15 pages, and certain matters may require additional fees if they exceed your plan’s coverage.

4. Not Ideal for Those Who Rarely Need Legal Help. If you only face legal issues once every few years, the monthly cost may outweigh the benefit. LegalShield works best for people or businesses that value ongoing, ready access to legal advice.

Overall, LegalShield’s pros clearly outweigh its cons for most members. It’s not a replacement for a dedicated law firm in complex litigation — but for 90% of everyday legal needs, it delivers impressive value, convenience, and peace of mind.

Customer Experience and Reviews

When evaluating a legal service like LegalShield, real customer feedback provides important insight into what you can expect day-to-day. Overall, LegalShield earns high marks for affordability, convenience, and peace of mind—though experiences can vary depending on location and complexity of the issue.

Overall Ratings

LegalShield maintains solid scores across major review platforms. On Trustpilot, it holds a rating of around 4.6 out of 5 stars, reflecting thousands of positive reviews that highlight quick responses and professional service. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) also gives LegalShield an A+ rating, underscoring the company’s longevity and commitment to resolving customer concerns.

Common Praise

Many users praise LegalShield for providing immediate, reliable access to attorneys without the intimidation or cost of hiring one directly. Members often mention how easy it is to get a callback from a local lawyer—usually within a few hours of submitting a request through the app.

Other frequently cited benefits include:

• Affordable pricing compared to hiring private counsel.
• Helpful, knowledgeable attorneys who simplify legal jargon.
• Fast resolution of smaller issues like contract disputes and collections.
• Excellent app experience, which allows members to reach an attorney on the go.

Small business owners in particular appreciate having a legal team “on call” for contract reviews, HR questions, and client disputes.

Common Complaints

The most common complaints tend to revolve around inconsistent response times and variations in quality among partner law firms. A small number of users have noted delays in communication during peak periods or when their assigned attorney’s office is particularly busy.

Others mention that certain legal issues—especially more complex or time-intensive cases—require additional fees not covered under the basic plan. This is expected in a subscription model but can surprise first-time members who assume everything is included.

Visit LegalShield's Website for More Information.

My Personal Experience with LegalShield

As someone who owns rental properties and runs a small business, legal questions come up more often than I’d like — from tenant issues and opening an LLC, to business compliance questions. For me, having access to a law firm through LegalShield has been both practical and reassuring.

One particular experience stands out. A couple of years ago, while on vacation out of state, I was pulled over and given what I considered a completely unjustified traffic ticket.

Rather than taking time off work or flying back to appear in court, I reached out to LegalShield. Within days, they connected me with a local attorney in that area who handled everything on my behalf — and ultimately got the ticket thrown out in court.

That experience alone justified the cost of my membership. LegalShield isn’t perfect — response times can vary, and it’s not designed for complex or ongoing litigation — but for the low monthly fee, it has more than paid for itself. Having a law firm in my corner when legal issues pop up provides real peace of mind.

Becoming a LegalShield Associate

One optional feature worth mentioning is the opportunity to sign up as a LegalShield Associate. For a one-time $99 fee, members can share LegalShield with others and earn commissions for each new membership they refer.

In my case, this made sense. I know other entrepreneurs and real estate investors who face similar legal challenges, so becoming an associate allowed me to recommend a service I already use — while offsetting, and in some months completely covering, my own membership cost.

If you’re someone with a strong professional network or simply believe others could benefit from affordable legal protection, joining as an associate can turn LegalShield into more than just a service — it can become a profit center for your business.

Note: After the one-time fee to sign up as an associate, there is an optional $24.95/month fee for "LegalShield Advantage."

In my opinion, this is not a necessary expense. I'm only a 'basic' associate and I can refer customers just fine without access to the premium marketing materials and CRM tools.

If you're considering promoting LegalShield, this video below reveals how LegalShield compensates independent associates to promote their legal services.

Visit LegalShield's Website to Learn More.

Our Takeaway

While no nationwide legal network is perfect, LegalShield’s feedback is overall positive relative to its cost and convenience. For most users, the value lies not just in the immediate legal help but in the confidence of knowing a professional is only a phone call away.

In short, LegalShield delivers on its promise: affordable, reliable legal access for everyday situations.

LegalShield vs. Alternatives

While LegalShield helped pioneer the legal subscription model, it’s far from the only option on the market today. Competitors like Rocket Lawyer, LegalZoom, and LawDepot also cater to individuals and small businesses seeking affordable legal help. However, the way these services operate—and the kind of value they offer—can differ significantly.

Here’s how LegalShield stacks up against its top competitors:

LegalShield vs. Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer is one of the most recognizable online legal brands, offering easy access to downloadable forms, documents, and pay-per-use attorney consultations. It’s a solid option for those who occasionally need a specific contract or business form. However, Rocket Lawyer operates on a DIY-first model—you’re creating your own documents and paying extra for legal help when you need it. LegalShield, by contrast, centers around ongoing attorney access. Members can call, email, or message a real lawyer directly without additional fees.

Verdict: Rocket Lawyer is better for document creation; LegalShield wins for consistent, personal legal support.

LegalShield vs. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is best known for business formation and estate planning documents. It’s highly convenient for LLC setups, trademarks, and basic filings—but personalized legal advice costs extra. LegalShield differs by offering unlimited consultations with licensed attorneys in all 50 states for one flat monthly rate. If your goal is to have a lawyer in your corner whenever an issue arises, LegalShield provides more ongoing value.

Verdict: LegalZoom is great for one-time filings; LegalShield is better for everyday legal guidance.

LegalShield vs. LawDepot

LawDepot focuses almost entirely on legal document templates. It’s inexpensive but strictly self-serve—there are no lawyers reviewing or advising you. LegalShield, meanwhile, provides full access to attorneys who can review documents, make calls, and represent you when necessary.

Verdict: LawDepot is for confident DIY users; LegalShield is for those who want attorney-backed support.

Why LegalShield Stands Out

What truly sets LegalShield apart is its subscription model centered around relationships, not transactions. You don’t just buy a document or consultation—you gain a network of local attorneys ready to help whenever you need them.

This makes LegalShield ideal for families, professionals, and small businesses who anticipate needing ongoing legal protection, not just one-off documents.

Who LegalShield Is Best For

LegalShield isn’t a one-size-fits-all service—but for many people, it fills a critical gap between “too small for a law firm” and “too important to handle alone.” Its greatest value lies in making legal support feel accessible, proactive, and affordable for everyday life.

Here’s who stands to benefit most from a LegalShield membership:

1. Individuals and Families Seeking Peace of Mind

For households dealing with the occasional legal question—like reviewing a lease, preparing a will, or resolving billing disputes—LegalShield provides confidence that professional help is just a call away. The ability to speak directly with a licensed attorney, without worrying about a surprise bill, makes it ideal for middle-class families who want preventive protection without high retainers.

2. Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs

Running a small business often means facing legal questions weekly—whether it’s about contracts, collections, or employment policies. LegalShield’s Small Business Plan gives entrepreneurs affordable access to experienced business attorneys who can review documents, provide HR guidance, and even make calls on their behalf. It’s like having an in-house legal department at a fraction of the cost.

3. Freelancers, Landlords, and Real Estate Investors

Freelancers and landlords frequently deal with contracts, client agreements, and tenant issues. LegalShield ensures these documents are reviewed by professionals before problems arise, helping protect income and minimize disputes.

4. Anyone Who Values Predictable Legal Costs

For those who’ve ever been shocked by a lawyer’s hourly rate, LegalShield offers predictability. You know your monthly cost up front, making it easy to budget for legal protection.

5. People Who Want to Avoid “DIY” Legal Headaches

While document services like LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer are great for simple forms, LegalShield is for people who prefer having real attorneys handle the details—especially when mistakes could cost far more than the membership fee.

In short, LegalShield is best for individuals, families, and small businesses who value ongoing legal access more than one-time document creation. If you want the reassurance of having an attorney ready whenever life throws a legal curveball, LegalShield is a strong fit.

Visit LegalShield's Website for More Information.

Is LegalShield Worth It? (Our Verdict)

After reviewing LegalShield’s pricing, features, and customer experiences, our verdict is clear: Yes — LegalShield is absolutely worth it for most individuals, families, and small business owners who want affordable, ongoing access to real attorneys.

For under $30 a month, you’re gaining a direct line to licensed lawyers in your state who can review documents, write letters, prepare wills, and offer personalized advice — without charging by the hour. That alone makes it a powerful safeguard for everyday legal issues that would normally be cost-prohibitive to address with traditional law firms.

LegalShield is especially valuable for proactive people who understand that legal protection isn’t just about reacting to problems — it’s about preventing them. Having an attorney review a contract before you sign it, or clarify your rights before taking action, can save you from costly mistakes later on.

That said, LegalShield isn’t designed to handle major lawsuits or highly specialized cases. If you’re facing serious criminal charges, divorce litigation, or corporate mergers, you’ll need to hire a separate attorney outside the plan. But for 90% of common legal needs, LegalShield delivers convenience, cost savings, and peace of mind that far outweigh its modest monthly price.

Bottom line: LegalShield succeeds at what it promises — providing reliable legal access for real people at an affordable cost. It’s not a replacement for a full-service law firm, but for anyone seeking everyday legal protection without the financial stress, LegalShield is a smart and dependable choice.

FAQs

1. Is LegalShield a legitimate service?

Yes. LegalShield has been in business for over 50 years and currently serves millions of members across the U.S. and Canada. It partners with established law firms in every state, so when you contact LegalShield, you’re speaking with licensed, experienced attorneys—not chatbots or paralegals.

2. What types of issues can LegalShield help with?

LegalShield covers most everyday legal needs, including contract reviews, landlord-tenant disputes, will preparation, debt collection assistance, business advice, traffic tickets, and more. Serious criminal or highly complex cases usually fall outside of plan coverage but can still be handled by your provider attorney at a discounted rate.

3. How long does it take to speak with an attorney?

In most cases, a local attorney contacts you within four business hours after submitting a request through the app or member portal. For emergencies—like being arrested or served with legal papers—you can reach a lawyer 24/7 through LegalShield’s emergency line.

4. Can I cancel my membership at any time?

Yes. LegalShield memberships are month-to-month and can be canceled at any time without penalty. You simply log into your account or call member services to stop automatic billing.

Visit LegalShield's Website for More Information.

5. Does LegalShield cover court representation?

Yes, to a degree. Members receive a set number of trial defense hours that increase with each year of membership. These hours can be used if you need to appear in court for covered matters. For cases that require additional time, you can retain your assigned attorney at a discounted rate.

6. Is LegalShield worth it if I rarely need a lawyer?

If you almost never encounter legal situations, you might not use LegalShield enough to justify the monthly fee. However, many members find that once they have access, they use it more often than expected—asking for document reviews, business advice, or legal clarifications that they might have otherwise ignored due to cost.

7. Does LegalShield use real local law firms?

Yes. LegalShield works with independent provider law firms in each state. These are full-service firms with licensed attorneys who handle member requests according to local law and jurisdiction.

8. Can LegalShield help with identity theft?

Yes. LegalShield’s IDShield add-on plan provides comprehensive identity theft monitoring, credit tracking, and full-service restoration if your identity is compromised. It’s one of the most popular add-ons for families and professionals who want all-around protection.

LegalShield Review

LegalShield bridges the gap between expensive hourly attorneys and the growing need for affordable, reliable legal help. For a modest monthly fee, members gain access to experienced lawyers who can answer questions, review contracts, write letters, and provide real support when it matters most.

What makes LegalShield stand out is its simplicity and accessibility. You don’t have to search for a lawyer or worry about surprise bills — you just open the app, request help, and get connected to a professional who knows your state’s laws. For individuals, families, and small business owners, that level of on-demand legal protection can be a real game-changer.

It’s not a replacement for a private law firm in complex or high-stakes cases, but it was never meant to be. LegalShield shines in the day-to-day — helping people stay proactive, informed, and legally protected without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for peace of mind, predictable pricing, and professional guidance whenever life throws you a legal curveball, LegalShield is one of the most dependable and cost-effective options available today.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’ve ever hesitated to call a lawyer because of the cost, LegalShield is your chance to change that. With a trusted attorney just a call or click away, you can get professional legal help when you need it—without the anxiety of hourly fees or surprise invoices.

Whether you’re reviewing a contract, setting up a business, creating a will, or simply want peace of mind for your family, LegalShield delivers accessible, affordable legal protection for modern life.

👉 Visit LegalShield.com to explore plans, compare options, and start your membership risk-free.