TERMS OF SERVICE

TERMS OF SERVICE

PREAMBLE AND SERVICE FRAMEWORK

These Terms of Service constitute a legal agreement governing the provision of professional services by RPKA Technologies Private Limited, a company duly incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, having its registered office situated at 205, Samruddhi Complex, opposite Sakar III, near Income Tax crossroads, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, operating under the business name "The Insurance Bar" for the provision of specialized insurance claims consultation, advocacy, and professional advisory services.

FUNDAMENTAL REGULATORY DISCLAIMER: RPKA Technologies Private Limited expressly disclaims any engagement in insurance business activities regulated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India and clarifies that all services provided are strictly limited to legal consultation, claims advocacy, and professional advisory services related to existing insurance policies and claims processing. The Company does not sell, distribute, solicit, or underwrite insurance policies and maintains no formal arrangements with insurance companies or third-party administrators for the purpose of insurance product distribution or sales activities.

These Terms of Service establish the contractual framework governing the relationship between the Company and clients who engage professional services, encompassing all aspects of service delivery, professional obligations, client responsibilities, fee structures, dispute resolution procedures, and termination provisions. This agreement supplements and operates in conjunction with the Company's Terms of Use governing website interactions and Terms and Conditions establishing general business relationship parameters.

The Company provides professional services exclusively to assist policyholders in understanding their insurance coverage, navigating complex claims processes, pursuing legitimate claims through appropriate legal and regulatory channels, and protecting their rights as insurance consumers. All services are delivered by qualified professionals with extensive experience in insurance law, claims processing, regulatory compliance, and advocacy techniques designed to maximize the likelihood of favorable outcomes while ensuring full adherence to applicable legal and professional standards.

By engaging the Company's professional services, submitting service requests, providing information for service delivery, or maintaining any ongoing professional relationship with the Company, clients acknowledge having read, understood, and agreed to be bound by these Terms of Service in their entirety. Such agreement constitutes informed consent to all provisions herein and waiver of any claims that these terms were not properly presented, explained, or understood at the time of service engagement.

SERVICE DESCRIPTION AND PROFESSIONAL OFFERINGS

Primary Professional Service Categories

The Insurance Bar provides a suite of professional services designed to address the complex challenges faced by insurance policyholders in pursuing legitimate claims and protecting their rights as consumers. These services encompass detailed policy analysis and coverage interpretation to identify available benefits, exclusions, limitations, and potential grounds for claim disputes under applicable legal standards and industry practices. The Company conducts thorough claim viability assessments that evaluate the strength of potential claims based on policy language, factual circumstances, legal precedents, and regulatory guidance to provide clients with realistic expectations and strategic recommendations for optimal claim pursuit.

Professional advocacy services include preparation of claim submissions that present each case in the most compelling manner possible, incorporating detailed factual narratives, supporting documentation, expert opinions, legal research, and persuasive arguments calculated to overcome insurer resistance and achieve favorable outcomes. The Company provides sophisticated negotiation services involving direct communication with insurance companies, their adjusters, legal representatives, medical reviewers, and other decision-makers to advocate for fair and appropriate claim resolutions that reflect the true extent of covered losses and damages.

Case management services encompass coordination of all aspects of the claims process, including timeline management to ensure compliance with critical deadlines and procedural requirements, document management and organization to maintain complete and accessible case files, communication coordination among all parties involved in the claim process, and strategic planning that adapts to changing circumstances and emerging opportunities throughout the claim lifecycle.

Specialized Legal and Regulatory Advisory Services

The Company provides advanced legal consultation services including research and analysis of applicable insurance laws, regulations, and industry standards that may impact claim outcomes. This encompasses interpretation of policy language in light of relevant legal precedents, regulatory guidance, and industry practices to develop strategies for claim advocacy and dispute resolution. Legal research services include analysis of state and federal insurance regulations, court decisions affecting insurance coverage and claim handling, regulatory enforcement actions and their implications for consumer rights, and emerging legal trends that may create new opportunities for policyholder advocacy.

Regulatory compliance guidance assists clients in understanding and meeting various regulatory requirements that may apply to their insurance claims, including coordination with state insurance departments and consumer protection agencies, compliance with claim filing deadlines and procedural requirements established by law or regulation, assistance with regulatory complaint processes when insurance companies fail to handle claims in accordance with applicable standards, and guidance regarding consumer rights and protections available under applicable legal frameworks.

Appeals and dispute resolution services include preparation and presentation of appeals when claims are initially denied or inadequately settled, coordination with legal counsel when litigation becomes necessary to protect client interests, assistance with alternative dispute resolution processes including mediation and arbitration, case management throughout extended dispute resolution proceedings, and strategic planning for multi-level appeals through administrative and judicial channels.

Technology-Enhanced Service Delivery and Innovation

The Company utilizes sophisticated technology platforms and proprietary methodologies to enhance service delivery efficiency, improve client communication, and maximize advocacy effectiveness. These technological capabilities include secure client portals that provide real-time access to case information, document libraries, and communication histories, automated tracking systems that monitor claim deadlines, regulatory requirements, and important milestones throughout the advocacy process, advanced data analytics tools that assess claim viability, predict likely outcomes, and identify optimal timing for negotiations and strategic decisions.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies assist in legal research, document analysis, pattern recognition for identifying successful advocacy strategies, and predictive modeling for claim outcome assessment. These technological enhancements enable the Company to provide more efficient, accurate, and services while maintaining the highest standards of data security, client confidentiality, and professional judgment in all service delivery activities.

Communication technology platforms facilitate efficient coordination among clients, Company personnel, insurance companies, healthcare providers, legal professionals, and other parties involved in the claims process. Real-time collaboration tools ensure that all stakeholders remain informed of developments, deadlines, and strategic decisions throughout the advocacy relationship, while secure communication channels protect sensitive information and maintain appropriate confidentiality safeguards.

DETAILED CLIENT OBLIGATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Information Provision Requirements

Clients bear the fundamental responsibility to provide complete, accurate, truthful, and timely information to the Company in all communications, documentation, and interactions related to professional services. This obligation encompasses all personal identifying information, financial records and statements, medical documentation and health information, insurance policy details and correspondence, claim histories and prior advocacy efforts, employment and income documentation, legal documents and court filings, expert reports and professional opinions, and any other information that may be relevant to the Company's ability to provide effective advocacy services and strategic guidance.

The accuracy and completeness of client information is absolutely critical to the Company's ability to develop effective advocacy strategies, prepare compelling claim presentations, assess legal risks and opportunities, negotiate with insurance companies and their representatives, comply with regulatory requirements and professional standards, and achieve optimal outcomes that serve client interests. Clients acknowledge that any false, misleading, incomplete, or outdated information may materially prejudice their interests, prevent the Company from providing effective representation, expose both parties to legal liability, and result in suboptimal outcomes or complete inability to pursue viable claims.

Clients must promptly notify the Company of any changes, updates, corrections, or additional information that may affect previously submitted data, the Company's understanding of client circumstances, ongoing advocacy strategies, or the viability of pending claims. This includes but is not limited to changes in contact information, financial circumstances, medical conditions, employment status, insurance coverage, legal proceedings, or any other factors that may influence the advocacy relationship or claim outcomes.

Active Cooperation and Communication Standards

Clients agree to cooperate fully and actively with the Company throughout the entire professional relationship, including responding promptly to requests for information, documentation, clarification, or strategic input, participating meaningfully in meetings, consultations, strategic planning sessions, and case review activities, providing timely access to relevant third parties including healthcare providers, employers, financial institutions, and other professionals who may possess information relevant to claim advocacy efforts.

Effective advocacy requires ongoing collaboration, open communication, and mutual trust between clients and the Company's professional team. Clients must maintain regular communication regarding any developments, concerns, or changes in circumstances that may affect ongoing advocacy efforts, case strategies, or the Company's ability to provide effective representation. Failure to maintain adequate cooperation and communication may materially impair service delivery, compromise advocacy effectiveness, and potentially result in adverse outcomes or termination of the professional relationship.

Clients acknowledge that professional advocacy involves strategic decision-making that requires client input, approval, and participation at critical junctures throughout the process. The Company will provide professional recommendations and strategic guidance, but clients retain ultimate decision-making authority regarding case strategies, settlement negotiations, appeal procedures, and other matters affecting their interests. Clients agree to participate actively in strategic discussions and to make timely decisions that enable the Company to pursue advocacy opportunities effectively.

Legal and Ethical Compliance Obligations

Clients agree to comply strictly with all applicable laws, regulations, ethical standards, and professional requirements in connection with their engagement of professional services and pursuit of insurance claims. This includes providing truthful and accurate information to insurance companies, regulatory authorities, and other parties involved in the claims process, cooperating fully with legitimate investigations and inquiries from appropriate authorities, respecting intellectual property rights, confidentiality obligations, and professional privilege protections, and refraining from any conduct that could constitute fraud, misrepresentation, obstruction of justice, or other violations of applicable legal standards.

Clients acknowledge that insurance fraud and related violations carry serious criminal and civil penalties including substantial fines, imprisonment, civil liability, and permanent exclusion from insurance coverage. Clients expressly agree to refrain from any conduct that could constitute fraudulent misrepresentation, material omission, document falsification, or other illegal activity in connection with insurance claims or related matters. The Company reserves the absolute right to terminate professional services immediately upon becoming aware of any potentially fraudulent, illegal, or unethical conduct by clients.

Clients understand that the Company maintains professional obligations to comply with applicable legal requirements, ethical standards, and regulatory mandates that may require disclosure of certain information or termination of representation under specific circumstances. Clients agree to respect these professional obligations and acknowledge that the Company's compliance with legal and ethical requirements takes precedence over client preferences when conflicts arise.

Financial Obligations and Payment Responsibilities

Clients agree to pay all applicable fees, charges, costs, and expenses associated with professional services in accordance with the payment terms specified in their service agreements with the Company. Financial obligations include initial consultation fees for case evaluation and strategic planning, ongoing professional service fees based on time, complexity, and outcomes achieved, expense reimbursements for costs incurred on behalf of clients including expert witness fees, document production costs, travel expenses, and other necessary expenditures, and any additional charges that may be agreed upon in connection with specialized services or extraordinary circumstances.

Payment obligations are due and payable in accordance with agreed schedules and may not be contingent upon claim outcomes, insurance company decisions, or other factors beyond the Company's control. Clients understand that professional advocacy services require significant investment of time, expertise, and resources regardless of ultimate outcomes, and that the Company's compensation is earned through the provision of competent professional services rather than the achievement of specific results.

Failure to meet payment obligations may result in suspension or termination of professional services, potential impact on the Company's ability to advocate effectively for client interests, additional collection costs and legal fees, and potential legal action to recover outstanding amounts. The Company reserves the right to require advance payment, security deposits, or other financial assurances for anticipated expenses and may condition continued service delivery on current payment status and creditworthiness.

FEE STRUCTURE AND BILLING FRAMEWORK

Professional Service Fee Categories

The Company's fee structure reflects the complex and specialized nature of insurance advocacy services and is designed to ensure fair compensation for professional expertise while providing clients with transparent and predictable cost structures. Professional service fees are categorized based on service complexity, time requirements, expertise levels, and outcome significance to provide appropriate compensation for varying levels of professional involvement and responsibility.

Initial consultation fees cover case evaluation, policy analysis, claim viability assessment, strategic planning, and initial recommendations for claim pursuit. These fees compensate the Company for detailed review of client circumstances, legal research regarding applicable coverage and regulatory requirements, assessment of potential challenges and opportunities, development of preliminary advocacy strategies, and preparation of service proposals tailored to client needs and objectives.

Ongoing professional service fees may be structured as hourly rates based on time invested by qualified professionals, flat fees for specific services or case categories, contingency fees based on successful claim outcomes where legally permissible and ethically appropriate, or hybrid arrangements combining multiple fee structures to align Company compensation with client interests and service value. Fee structures are negotiated based on case complexity, expected time investment, risk factors, potential outcomes, and client preferences regarding cost predictability versus outcome-based compensation.

Expense Reimbursement and Cost Allocation

Clients are responsible for reimbursing the Company for reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in connection with professional service delivery, including but not limited to expert witness fees for medical, financial, legal, or technical professionals whose opinions support client advocacy efforts, document production and copying costs for obtaining medical records, policy documents, correspondence, and other materials necessary for claim preparation, travel expenses when client representation requires Company personnel to attend meetings, hearings, or other proceedings outside normal business locations.

Communication costs including long-distance telephone calls, express mail delivery, electronic document transmission, and other communication expenses necessary for effective advocacy, filing fees and administrative costs for regulatory complaints, legal proceedings, or other formal advocacy actions, research expenses for accessing specialized databases, legal publications, or other information sources necessary for effective representation, and technology costs for specialized software, equipment, or services required for particular cases or client needs.

All expense reimbursements are subject to prior client approval when individual expenses exceed agreed thresholds, detailed documentation and reporting to ensure transparency and accountability, competitive pricing and cost-effectiveness to minimize client financial burden, and careful allocation to ensure that clients pay only for expenses directly related to their specific matters rather than general business overhead or administrative costs.

Payment Terms and Collection Procedures

Payment terms are established through individual service agreements and may vary based on client circumstances, case complexity, fee structures, and other relevant factors. Standard payment terms include initial retainer payments to secure professional services and cover anticipated initial expenses, periodic billing cycles based on services rendered and expenses incurred, with detailed invoices providing descriptions of work performed and costs incurred, prompt payment requirements to ensure continued service availability and effectiveness.

Late payment penalties and collection procedures are implemented when clients fail to meet agreed payment obligations, including assessment of reasonable late fees and interest charges, suspension of non-critical services while maintaining essential advocacy activities, engagement of professional collection services when appropriate, and potential legal action to recover outstanding amounts including attorneys' fees and court costs.

The Company endeavors to work collaboratively with clients experiencing temporary financial difficulties and may consider payment plan arrangements, fee modifications, or other accommodations when circumstances warrant such flexibility. However, clients acknowledge that sustained failure to meet financial obligations may necessitate service termination or limitation that could adversely affect their advocacy interests and claim outcomes.

EXTENSIVE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND CONFIDENTIALITY FRAMEWORK

Company Intellectual Property Rights and Protections

The Company maintains exclusive ownership of all intellectual property rights associated with its business operations, service delivery methodologies, technology platforms, and professional work product. This intellectual property encompasses proprietary advocacy methodologies developed through years of professional experience and continuous refinement, specialized software and technology platforms designed for claims analysis, case management, and client communication, databases of legal precedents, regulatory guidance, industry practices, and successful advocacy strategies.

Professional work product including legal research, strategic analyses, negotiation strategies, document templates, correspondence formats, and other materials developed specifically for client matters represents significant intellectual property that remains owned by the Company while serving client interests. Training materials, professional development resources, and internal procedures that enable the Company to deliver high-quality services constitute valuable trade secrets and proprietary information protected by applicable intellectual property laws.

Marketing materials, business presentations, website content, and other communications that establish the Company's professional reputation and market position are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property rights. Clients acknowledge that they receive the benefit of the Company's intellectual property through professional service delivery but do not acquire ownership rights in such intellectual property through their engagement of services.

Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, or disclosure of the Company's intellectual property may result in immediate termination of professional services, legal action to protect intellectual property rights including claims for injunctive relief and monetary damages, and other remedies available under applicable intellectual property laws. Clients agree to respect all intellectual property rights and to refrain from any conduct that could compromise the Company's competitive position or proprietary advantages.

Client Information Confidentiality and Professional Privilege

The Company maintains the highest standards of confidentiality and professional privilege regarding all client information, communications, and professional relationships. Confidentiality protections extend to all information provided by clients, obtained from third parties on behalf of clients, developed through professional analysis and strategic planning, and generated through advocacy activities and case management. These protections apply regardless of the format or medium in which information exists, including written documents, electronic communications, audio recordings, and oral communications.

Professional privilege protections apply to attorney-client communications and work product where applicable legal standards recognize such privileges. The Company endeavors to structure its professional relationships and service delivery procedures to maximize available privilege protections while ensuring that clients understand the scope and limitations of such protections under applicable law. Clients acknowledge that privilege protections may be subject to certain exceptions and limitations that could require disclosure under specific legal circumstances.

Confidentiality obligations continue indefinitely beyond the termination of professional relationships and extend to all Company personnel, contractors, consultants, and other parties who may have access to client information in connection with service delivery. The Company implements policies, procedures, and training programs to ensure that all personnel understand and comply with confidentiality requirements and professional standards governing client information protection.

Exceptions to confidentiality protections are limited to circumstances specifically authorized by clients, required by applicable law or court order, necessary to prevent imminent harm to clients or third parties, or essential to protect the Company's legitimate business interests in accordance with applicable legal and professional standards. Any disclosures made under these limited exceptions are restricted to the minimum information necessary to address the specific circumstances requiring disclosure.

Third-Party Information and Coordination Requirements

Professional advocacy often requires the Company to obtain, review, and utilize information from various third parties including insurance companies, healthcare providers, employers, financial institutions, government agencies, and other organizations that may possess information relevant to client claims. The Company coordinates such information gathering activities in accordance with applicable privacy laws, professional standards, and client authorization requirements.

Third-party information obtained on behalf of clients is subject to the same confidentiality protections as client-provided information and may not be disclosed to unauthorized parties without appropriate legal authorization. The Company maintains detailed records of third-party information sources and implements appropriate safeguards to ensure that such information is used only for authorized purposes in connection with client advocacy efforts.

Clients are responsible for providing necessary authorizations, releases, and consents required for the Company to obtain third-party information essential for effective advocacy. Failure to provide appropriate authorizations may limit the Company's ability to gather necessary information and may adversely affect advocacy effectiveness and claim outcomes. Clients acknowledge that some third parties may be unwilling to provide information or may impose conditions on information sharing that could affect advocacy strategies and outcomes.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND RISK ALLOCATION

Professional Service Outcome Disclaimers

The Company provides professional consultation and advocacy services designed to assist clients in pursuing legitimate insurance claims and protecting their rights as consumers. However, the Company expressly disclaims any warranties, guarantees, or promises regarding specific outcomes including claim approval rates, settlement amounts, negotiation success, insurance company responses, regulatory enforcement actions, legal proceedings outcomes, or any other results that depend on decisions and actions by third parties beyond the Company's control.

Clients acknowledge that insurance claim outcomes depend on numerous complex factors including policy language and legal interpretation, factual circumstances surrounding each claim, insurance company practices and decision-making processes, applicable legal standards and regulatory requirements, economic conditions affecting the insurance industry, and many other variables that cannot be predicted or controlled through professional advocacy efforts. While the Company provides expert guidance and vigorous advocacy designed to maximize favorable outcomes, success cannot be guaranteed in any particular case.

The Company's professional obligations are limited to providing competent services in accordance with applicable professional standards and do not extend to ensuring specific results or outcomes that depend on third-party decisions. Clients understand that professional advocacy, while valuable and often effective in improving claim outcomes, cannot guarantee that insurance companies, regulatory authorities, or other parties will act in accordance with applicable legal standards or industry best practices.

The Company specifically disclaims responsibility for delays, denials, inadequate settlements, or other adverse outcomes that may result from insurance company practices, regulatory interpretations, legal developments, market conditions, or other factors beyond the Company's reasonable control. Clients acknowledge that engaging professional advocacy services does not eliminate all risks associated with insurance claim pursuit and that adverse outcomes may occur despite competent professional representation.

Technology Platform and Communication Disclaimers

The Company utilizes various technology platforms, communication systems, and electronic tools to enhance service delivery, improve client communication, and maintain efficient case management capabilities. These technology systems are provided on an "as is" and "as available" basis without warranties regarding availability, functionality, accuracy, security, or performance. Clients acknowledge that technology systems may experience interruptions, malfunctions, security vulnerabilities, or other issues that could affect service delivery or communication effectiveness.

While the Company implements reasonable security measures and maintenance procedures to protect technology systems and client information, it cannot guarantee absolute security, continuous availability, or error-free operation of technology platforms. Clients are encouraged to maintain alternative communication methods, backup copies of important documents, and contingency plans for accessing critical information during technology disruptions or security incidents.

The Company disclaims liability for any damages, losses, or adverse consequences that may result from technology system failures, security breaches, data loss, communication interruptions, or other technology-related issues, except to the extent such problems result directly from the Company's gross negligence or willful misconduct. Clients acknowledge that they assume responsibility for protecting their own technology systems and for implementing appropriate security measures in their interactions with Company technology platforms.

Third-Party Service Provider and Vendor Disclaimers

The Company may engage various third-party service providers, expert witnesses, consultants, and vendors to support client advocacy efforts and service delivery requirements. These third parties include medical professionals who provide expert opinions, financial analysts who assess economic damages, legal professionals who provide specialized expertise, technology vendors who maintain communication systems, and other professionals whose services may benefit client interests.

The Company endeavors to select qualified and reputable third-party providers but cannot guarantee their performance, accuracy, availability, or compliance with professional standards. Clients acknowledge that third-party providers operate independently and that their actions, opinions, billing practices, and service quality are beyond the Company's complete control. While the Company monitors third-party performance and addresses issues when they arise, clients understand that third-party service problems may occasionally affect advocacy efforts and outcomes.

The Company disclaims liability for third-party service provider errors, delays, misconduct, or other issues that may affect client interests, except to the extent the Company's selection or supervision of third parties fails to meet reasonable professional standards. Clients acknowledge that engaging multiple professionals and service providers may involve coordination challenges and occasional service inconsistencies that the Company will address professionally but cannot completely eliminate.

Maximum Liability Limitations and Damage Exclusions

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, the Company's total liability to clients for any claims, damages, losses, or other consequences arising from or related to professional services shall not exceed the total amount of fees actually paid by the client to the Company during the twelve months immediately preceding the events giving rise to liability claims. This limitation applies regardless of the legal theory upon which claims are based, including breach of contract, professional negligence, misrepresentation, or any other cause of action.

The Company shall not be liable under any circumstances for indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to lost profits, business opportunities, investment returns, or other economic benefits that clients might have obtained with different claim outcomes, emotional distress, mental anguish, or other intangible injuries, damage to reputation or professional standing, costs of obtaining substitute services from other providers, or any other losses that are not directly and proximately caused by the Company's breach of professional obligations.

These liability limitations are reasonable and necessary considering the nature of professional advocacy services, the fees charged for such services, the inherent uncertainties associated with insurance claim outcomes, the involvement of numerous third parties whose actions affect results, and the availability of professional liability insurance to provide additional protection for clients when appropriate. Clients acknowledge that these limitations are a material consideration in the Company's decision to provide services and agree that they are fair and reasonable under the circumstances.

Clients are encouraged to maintain appropriate insurance coverage including legal expense insurance, professional liability coverage, or other protections that may be available to address losses not covered by these liability limitations. The Company may assist clients in understanding available insurance protections but cannot provide advice regarding the adequacy or appropriateness of particular insurance coverage decisions.

DETAILED INDEMNIFICATION AND DEFENSE PROVISIONS

Client Indemnification Obligations

Clients agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless RPKA Technologies Private Limited, its officers, directors, employees, agents, contractors, professional consultants, and affiliated entities from and against any and all claims, demands, actions, lawsuits, proceedings, damages, liabilities, losses, costs, and expenses, including reasonable attorneys' fees, expert witness costs, court expenses, and other litigation-related costs, arising from or related to client use of professional services, violation of these Terms of Service or applicable laws, provision of false, misleading, or incomplete information to the Company or third parties, infringement of intellectual property rights, defamation, privacy violations, or other tortious conduct.

Client indemnification obligations extend to claims arising from client interactions with insurance companies, healthcare providers, regulatory agencies, or other third parties in connection with insurance claims and advocacy efforts, regulatory violations or non-compliance with legal requirements resulting from client conduct or decisions, disputes with other professionals, service providers, or vendors engaged by clients in connection with their insurance matters, and any other conduct or circumstances that arise from or relate to the client's insurance claims, business activities, or personal circumstances.

Clients acknowledge that their indemnification obligations may involve significant financial exposure and agree to maintain adequate insurance coverage, financial reserves, or other resources to satisfy potential indemnification claims. The Company reserves the right to assume control of the defense of any indemnified claims, select defense counsel, develop litigation strategies, and make settlement decisions, with client cooperation and input as appropriate. Clients agree to cooperate fully in the defense of indemnified claims and to provide all necessary information, documentation, and assistance requested by the Company or its counsel.

Indemnification obligations survive termination of these Terms of Service and continue indefinitely for all claims that may arise from conduct, relationships, or circumstances occurring during the period of professional service engagement. Clients acknowledge that certain types of claims may not become apparent until years after the underlying events occur and agree that their indemnification obligations extend to all such claims regardless of when they are discovered or asserted.

Company Indemnification in Limited Circumstances

The Company agrees to indemnify clients against claims arising solely and directly from the Company's gross negligence, willful misconduct, criminal activity, or material violation of applicable professional standards in the provision of services, provided that clients promptly notify the Company of such claims, cooperate fully in their defense, and have not contributed to the circumstances giving rise to liability through their own negligence, misconduct, or violation of these Terms of Service.

Company indemnification is limited to direct damages actually incurred by clients and does not extend to indirect, consequential, punitive, or speculative damages. The Company's indemnification obligations are also subject to the maximum liability limitations set forth in these Terms of Service and may not exceed the total fees paid by the client to the Company during the applicable period. Clients acknowledge that Company indemnification is intended to provide limited protection against clear cases of professional misconduct but does not constitute insurance coverage or guarantee against all potential losses.

The Company's indemnification obligations do not apply to claims arising from client decisions regarding case strategies, settlement negotiations, regulatory proceedings, or other matters within client control, even when such decisions are made based on Company recommendations or advice. Clients retain ultimate responsibility for their own decisions and actions and acknowledge that professional consultation does not transfer responsibility for decision-making or its consequences to the Company.

Company indemnification is contingent upon clients' full compliance with these Terms of Service, accuracy and completeness of information provided to the Company, and absence of client conduct that contributes to the circumstances giving rise to indemnification claims. The Company reserves the right to deny indemnification when client conduct, misrepresentations, or violations of these Terms of Service materially contribute to the damages or losses for which indemnification is sought.

Joint Defense and Cooperation Agreements

When claims arise that may affect both clients and the Company, the parties may enter into joint defense arrangements that allow coordination of legal strategies while preserving attorney-client privilege and avoiding conflicts of interest. Such arrangements require written agreements specifying the scope of cooperation, allocation of defense costs, decision-making procedures, and protection of confidential information shared between the parties and their respective counsel.

Joint defense arrangements may be appropriate when both parties face claims arising from the same underlying circumstances, when coordination of defense strategies would benefit both parties, when expert witnesses or evidence may be shared to reduce overall defense costs, or when settlement negotiations may affect both parties' interests. However, joint defense arrangements are not mandatory and either party may elect to pursue independent defense strategies when conflicts of interest arise or when independent representation would better serve their interests.

Clients acknowledge that joint defense arrangements require careful consideration of potential conflicts of interest and may not be appropriate in all circumstances. The Company will evaluate each situation individually and will recommend independent representation when conflicts arise that cannot be resolved through joint defense procedures. Clients are encouraged to obtain independent legal counsel to evaluate the advisability of joint defense arrangements and to ensure that their interests are adequately protected.

TERMINATION AND TRANSITION FRAMEWORK

Termination Rights and Procedures

Either party may terminate professional service relationships and these Terms of Service under various circumstances and following specific procedures designed to protect both parties' interests and ensure orderly transition of responsibilities. Clients may terminate professional services at any time with written notice to the Company, specifying the effective date of termination and any special instructions regarding transition of responsibilities, completion of pending matters, or disposition of client files and information.

The Company may terminate professional services under circumstances including but not limited to client violation of these Terms of Service or applicable laws, failure to pay fees or expenses in accordance with agreed terms, provision of false, misleading, or incomplete information that materially affects service delivery, client conduct that interferes with the Company's ability to provide effective representation, conflicts of interest that cannot be resolved through appropriate safeguards, changes in legal or regulatory requirements that make continued representation inappropriate, or other circumstances that make continued professional relationship inadvisable or ineffective.

Termination notices must be provided in writing and specify the effective date, reasons for termination when termination is initiated by the Company, instructions for transition of responsibilities and completion of urgent matters, and procedures for return of client files, documents, and information. Termination becomes effective on the date specified in the notice unless emergency circumstances require immediate termination to protect client interests or comply with legal obligations.

Emergency termination may be implemented immediately without advance notice when continued representation would violate legal or ethical obligations, when client conduct poses risks to the Company or third parties, when conflicts of interest arise that cannot be resolved, or when other emergency circumstances make immediate termination necessary. In such cases, the Company will provide prompt notification of termination and will take reasonable steps to protect client interests during the transition period.

Post-Termination Obligations and Responsibilities

Following termination of professional services, both parties retain certain ongoing obligations and responsibilities designed to protect confidential information, complete pending matters appropriately, and ensure orderly transition of responsibilities to other service providers when applicable. The Company's post-termination obligations include maintenance of confidentiality regarding all client information and communications, completion of urgent matters that cannot be deferred without prejudicing client interests, cooperation with successor counsel or service providers in transitioning responsibilities, and return of client files and documents in accordance with applicable professional standards.

Client post-termination obligations include payment of all outstanding fees and expenses incurred prior to termination, cooperation in completing pending matters and transitioning responsibilities to other providers, protection of confidential information and proprietary materials belonging to the Company, and compliance with any ongoing obligations under these Terms of Service that survive termination by their nature or express provisions.

The Company may provide reasonable assistance in transitioning ongoing matters to other service providers, including preparation of case summaries, transfer of relevant documents and information, communication with insurance companies and other parties regarding changes in representation, and coordination with successor counsel regarding pending deadlines and procedural requirements. However, the Company has no obligation to provide post-termination services except as may be required by applicable professional standards or legal obligations.

Clients remain responsible for ensuring that all necessary actions are taken to protect their interests following termination, including engagement of successor counsel or service providers when appropriate, compliance with ongoing deadlines and procedural requirements, continuation of communications with insurance companies and other relevant parties, and protection of their legal rights and interests during any transition period.

File Retention and Information Disposition

Following termination of professional services, the Company will handle client files, documents, and information in accordance with applicable professional standards, legal requirements, and the Company's established retention policies. Client files may be retained for periods necessary to comply with professional recordkeeping requirements, protect against potential malpractice claims, satisfy tax and business record obligations, and preserve information that may be relevant to ongoing or future legal proceedings.

Clients may request return of original documents, copies of file materials, and other information belonging to them, subject to the Company's right to retain copies necessary for professional compliance and protection of its legitimate interests. The Company will endeavor to accommodate reasonable client requests for file materials while maintaining appropriate records for its own protection and compliance with applicable requirements.

When file retention periods expire or when clients request destruction of their information, the Company will implement secure disposal procedures designed to prevent unauthorized access to confidential information. Disposal procedures include physical destruction of paper documents through certified shredding services, secure deletion of electronic information using appropriate data destruction technologies, and verification that all copies of client information have been identified and properly disposed of in accordance with applicable standards.

Clients acknowledge that certain information may be retained indefinitely when required by law, professional standards, or the Company's legitimate business interests, and that complete destruction of all client information may not be possible or appropriate under all circumstances. The Company will provide clients with information regarding its retention policies and will work collaboratively to address client concerns regarding information disposition while maintaining compliance with applicable requirements.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Mandatory Alternative Dispute Resolution Procedures

Any disputes, claims, controversies, or disagreements arising from or relating to these Terms of Service, professional service delivery, fee arrangements, or any other aspect of the relationship between clients and the Company shall be resolved exclusively through the dispute resolution procedures established herein. These procedures are mandatory and binding upon all parties, and clients waive any right to pursue claims through other forums, procedures, or legal mechanisms except as specifically provided in these Terms of Service.

Prior to initiating formal dispute resolution proceedings, the parties agree to engage in good faith direct negotiations designed to resolve disputes amicably through open communication, mutual compromise, and collaborative problem-solving. Direct negotiations shall be conducted by senior representatives of both parties with authority to make binding commitments and shall continue for a period of sixty days unless both parties agree that further negotiations would be futile or unless emergency circumstances require immediate formal proceedings.

If direct negotiations do not result in dispute resolution within the specified time period, the parties shall engage in mediation conducted by a qualified neutral mediator with expertise in professional service disputes, insurance law, or related areas. Mediation shall be conducted in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, unless the parties agree to a different location, and shall follow procedures designed to facilitate communication, identify areas of agreement, and develop mutually acceptable resolutions.

Mediation proceedings shall be confidential and conducted in accordance with applicable mediation rules and procedures. The mediator shall have no authority to impose binding decisions but may offer recommendations, facilitate negotiations, and assist the parties in developing creative solutions to their disputes. Mediation shall continue until resolution is achieved, the mediator determines that further mediation would not be productive, or either party elects to proceed to arbitration in accordance with these Terms of Service.

Binding Arbitration Procedures and Requirements

If mediation does not result in dispute resolution within ninety days of commencement, either party may initiate binding arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 2015, and the rules of the Indian Council of Arbitration or such other arbitration institution as the parties may agree. Arbitration proceedings shall be conducted in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, unless the parties agree to a different location, and shall be governed by Indian law and arbitration procedures.

Arbitration shall be conducted before a single arbitrator for disputes involving claims of less than ten lakh rupees, and before a panel of three arbitrators for disputes involving larger amounts or complex legal issues requiring specialized expertise. Arbitrators shall be selected based on their qualifications and experience in relevant areas including insurance law, professional services, commercial disputes, or other areas appropriate to the specific nature of the dispute.

The arbitration shall be conducted in English unless the parties agree otherwise, and shall follow expedited procedures designed to ensure fair, efficient, and cost-effective resolution of disputes while maintaining appropriate due process protections for all parties. The arbitrator or arbitration panel shall have authority to award any remedy available at law or in equity, including monetary damages, injunctive relief, and specific performance, except that punitive damages may not be awarded unless specifically authorized by applicable law and warranted by the circumstances.

Arbitration proceedings shall be confidential except to the extent disclosure is required for enforcement of awards or compliance with legal obligations. The parties agree to maintain confidentiality regarding all aspects of the arbitration process and to use information obtained during arbitration solely for purposes of the dispute resolution proceedings. The arbitration award shall be final and binding upon the parties and may be enforced in any court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with applicable law.

Each party shall bear its own attorneys' fees, expert witness costs, and other litigation expenses in connection with arbitration proceedings unless the arbitrator determines that an award of fees and costs is warranted by the circumstances, applicable law, or the conduct of the parties during the dispute resolution process. The parties shall share equally the costs of the arbitrator and arbitration administration unless the arbitrator determines that a different allocation is appropriate based on the relative merits of the parties' positions or other relevant factors.

Limited Exceptions to Arbitration Requirements

Notwithstanding the mandatory arbitration provisions set forth herein, either party may seek immediate injunctive relief, temporary restraining orders, or other emergency equitable remedies in courts of competent jurisdiction to protect intellectual property rights, enforce confidentiality obligations, prevent irreparable harm that cannot be adequately compensated through monetary damages, or address other urgent circumstances that require immediate judicial intervention to preserve the status quo pending arbitration proceedings.

Such emergency court proceedings shall be conducted in the courts of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, and shall not preclude subsequent arbitration of related claims for monetary damages or other relief that can be appropriately addressed through arbitration procedures. The parties acknowledge that emergency judicial relief may be necessary in limited circumstances and agree that seeking such relief does not constitute a waiver of arbitration requirements for other aspects of their disputes.

Small claims not exceeding the jurisdictional limits of appropriate small claims courts may be pursued in such courts instead of arbitration, provided that such claims do not involve complex factual or legal issues that would be better addressed through arbitration procedures and provided that small claims court jurisdiction is appropriate for the nature of the dispute and the parties involved.

Claims involving criminal conduct, regulatory violations, or other matters requiring government enforcement action may be reported to appropriate authorities and pursued through applicable legal procedures independently of these dispute resolution requirements. However, any civil claims arising from such circumstances remain subject to these dispute resolution procedures unless specifically exempted by applicable law or regulation.

Governing Law and Jurisdictional Framework

These Terms of Service and all matters arising from or related to professional service relationships shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of India, including but not limited to the Indian Contract Act, 1872, the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 2015, and other applicable Central and State legislation. The application of Indian law extends to all aspects of the professional relationship regardless of client location or the jurisdiction where services may be provided.

Clients acknowledge that Indian law provides the exclusive legal framework for interpreting these Terms of Service, determining the rights and obligations of the parties, resolving disputes, and enforcing judgments or arbitration awards. International clients acknowledge that they are subject to Indian law in their professional relationship with the Company and waive any claims that foreign law should apply to their engagement of services or resolution of disputes.

The Company's professional operations are conducted primarily within India and are designed to comply with Indian legal requirements, professional standards, and regulatory frameworks. Clients acknowledge that service delivery may be affected by Indian legal requirements and that the Company cannot guarantee compliance with foreign legal standards that may apply to client activities in other jurisdictions.

For any disputes not subject to arbitration, the parties submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, and waive any objections to personal jurisdiction, venue, or forum non conveniens in such courts. Clients acknowledge that such courts provide an appropriate and convenient forum for resolving disputes arising under these Terms of Service and agree that litigation in such courts does not constitute an undue burden or impediment to fair dispute resolution.

EXTENSIVE MISCELLANEOUS AND FINAL PROVISIONS

Force Majeure and Extraordinary Circumstances

Neither party shall be liable for any failure or delay in performance of obligations under these Terms of Service that results from circumstances beyond the party's reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, or wildfires, war, terrorism, civil unrest, government actions or regulatory changes, pandemics, epidemics, or public health emergencies, labor disputes, strikes, or work stoppages affecting the party or essential service providers, cyber attacks, security breaches, or technology system failures, failure of third-party service providers or infrastructure systems, or other events that are unforeseeable and unavoidable despite reasonable precautions and planning efforts.

The party affected by force majeure circumstances must promptly notify the other party of the nature and expected duration of the force majeure event, use commercially reasonable efforts to mitigate the effects of the force majeure event and resume normal performance as soon as practicable, provide regular updates regarding the status of force majeure circumstances and efforts to resolve them, and cooperate with the other party in developing alternative arrangements or procedures that may minimize the impact of the force majeure event on both parties' interests.

If force majeure circumstances continue for more than ninety consecutive days and materially impair either party's ability to perform essential obligations under these Terms of Service, either party may terminate the affected professional relationship with written notice to the other party. Such termination shall not result in liability for either party except for obligations that accrued prior to the commencement of force majeure circumstances and any post-termination obligations that survive termination by their nature or express provision.

Force majeure events shall not excuse client payment obligations for services already rendered or professional work completed prior to the force majeure event, and clients remain responsible for cooperating with alternative service delivery arrangements that may be necessary during force majeure circumstances. The Company will endeavor to maintain essential services and communications during force majeure events but cannot guarantee normal service levels when circumstances beyond its control affect operations.

Severability and Enforceability Provisions

If any provision of these Terms of Service is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, arbitration panel, or regulatory authority, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law. The parties agree to replace any invalid provision with a valid provision that most closely reflects the intent, economic effect, and practical consequences of the original provision while complying with applicable legal requirements.

The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision in one jurisdiction shall not affect the validity or enforceability of such provision in other jurisdictions or the validity of other provisions in any jurisdiction. Clients acknowledge that these Terms of Service are intended to be enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law in all relevant jurisdictions and that partial invalidity shall not affect the overall enforceability of the agreement.

If any limitation on the Company's liability, disclaimer of warranties, or indemnification provision is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable while preserving the maximum protection for the Company permitted by applicable law. The parties acknowledge that these protective provisions are essential elements of these Terms of Service and agree to work cooperatively to maintain their effectiveness within legal constraints.

The parties further agree that if any dispute resolution provision is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining dispute resolution procedures shall continue to apply to the maximum extent possible, and any disputes that cannot be resolved through available procedures may be pursued through appropriate legal channels while maintaining other aspects of these Terms of Service.

Assignment and Transfer Provisions

Clients may not assign, transfer, delegate, or otherwise dispose of their rights or obligations under these Terms of Service without the prior written consent of the Company, which consent may be granted or withheld in the Company's sole discretion based on the qualifications of proposed assignees, potential impacts on service delivery, confidentiality requirements, and other relevant business considerations. Any attempted assignment without proper consent shall be void and of no effect.

The Company may assign these Terms of Service and associated professional service obligations in whole or in part in connection with corporate transactions including mergers, acquisitions, sales of assets, corporate reorganizations, or other business arrangements, provided that any assignee has adequate qualifications and resources to continue providing professional services and agrees to be bound by these Terms of Service or substantially equivalent terms that provide comparable protection for client rights and interests.

In the event of Company assignment, clients will be provided with reasonable advance notice including information regarding the assignee's identity, qualifications, and experience in providing similar professional services, the effective date of the assignment and any changes in service delivery procedures, contact information for ongoing service relationships, and any modifications to terms or conditions that may result from the assignment. Clients who do not wish to continue their professional relationship with an assignee may terminate their service agreements in accordance with the termination procedures set forth in these Terms of Service.

Assignment of these Terms of Service does not relieve the Company of liability for services rendered prior to the effective date of assignment, and clients retain all rights and remedies regarding pre-assignment service delivery. However, post-assignment service delivery shall be governed by the terms agreed upon with the assignee, and clients acknowledge that assignment may result in changes to service delivery methods, personnel, or procedures that are necessary to accommodate the assignee's business practices and capabilities.

Entire Agreement and Integration Provisions

These Terms of Service, together with the Company's Terms of Use governing website interactions, Terms and Conditions establishing general business relationship parameters, Privacy Policy addressing data protection and confidentiality requirements, and any specific service agreements or engagement letters executed between the parties, constitute the complete and exclusive agreement between clients and the Company regarding professional service relationships and supersede all prior or contemporaneous agreements, understandings, representations, warranties, or communications, whether written or oral, relating to the subject matter hereof.

No representations, warranties, promises, or agreements not expressly set forth in these written documents shall be binding upon either party, and clients acknowledge that they have not relied on any statements, representations, or agreements not contained in these Terms of Service and related documents in deciding to engage the Company's professional services. Any modifications to these Terms of Service must be in writing and signed by authorized representatives of both parties to be effective and binding.

In the event of conflicts or inconsistencies between these Terms of Service and other Company documents, the most specific applicable document shall control, with specific service agreements taking precedence over general terms for matters addressed in both documents, these Terms of Service taking precedence over Terms of Use for matters involving professional service relationships, and the Terms and Conditions taking precedence for matters not specifically addressed in service-specific documents.

Integration of these Terms of Service with other applicable documents creates a legal framework governing all aspects of the professional relationship and ensures that all parties understand their rights, obligations, and responsibilities. Clients are encouraged to review all applicable documents carefully and to seek clarification regarding any provisions that may be unclear or require additional explanation.

Modification and Amendment Procedures

The Company reserves the right to modify, amend, update, or replace these Terms of Service at any time to reflect changes in applicable law, regulatory requirements, professional standards, business practices, technology capabilities, or service offerings. Such modifications may include changes to service descriptions, fee structures, payment terms, dispute resolution procedures, liability limitations, or any other aspect of the professional relationship.

Modifications shall become effective thirty days after written notice to clients unless emergency circumstances require immediate implementation to comply with legal requirements, address security vulnerabilities, or protect client interests. Notice of modifications shall be provided through direct communication to active clients, prominent posting on the Company's website, electronic mail to registered client addresses, or other appropriate communication methods designed to ensure that clients receive adequate notice of changes.

Clients who do not agree to modifications may terminate their professional service relationships in accordance with the termination procedures set forth in these Terms of Service, provided that such termination is initiated within thirty days of receiving notice of modifications. Continued engagement of professional services following the effective date of modifications constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms of Service, and clients who continue service relationships waive any objections to modifications that were properly noticed.

The Company endeavors to provide reasonable advance notice of material changes and to minimize disruptions to ongoing professional relationships. However, clients acknowledge that certain modifications may be necessary to maintain legal compliance, protect client interests, or adapt to changing business circumstances, and agree that the Company's ability to modify these Terms of Service is essential to maintaining effective professional service capabilities.

Notices and Communication Procedures

All notices, communications, and other correspondence required or permitted under these Terms of Service shall be in writing and shall be deemed properly given when delivered personally to the intended recipient, sent by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to the addresses specified in service agreements or as updated by the parties, transmitted by facsimile with confirmation of complete transmission, sent by electronic mail to addresses designated by the parties for official communications, or delivered through other methods agreed upon by the parties for specific communications.

The Company's official address for notice purposes is 205, Samruddhi Complex, opposite Sakar III, near Income Tax crossroads, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, with electronic communications directed to legal@theinsurancebar.com for legal matters, billing@theinsurancebar.com for financial matters, and service@theinsurancebar.com for service-related communications. Clients are responsible for maintaining current contact information with the Company and promptly notifying the Company of any changes to addresses, telephone numbers, or electronic mail addresses.

Emergency communications may be made through any available means including telephone calls, electronic mail, or express delivery services when immediate notice is necessary to protect client interests, comply with legal deadlines, or address urgent circumstances that cannot await normal communication procedures. However, emergency communications should be followed by formal written notice when circumstances permit.

The Company maintains regular business hours for telephone communications and endeavors to respond to electronic communications within forty-eight hours during normal business days. Clients acknowledging urgent matters should clearly indicate the time-sensitive nature of their communications and may use multiple communication methods to ensure prompt attention to critical issues.

EFFECTIVE DATE AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

These Terms of Service become effective on [Insert Date] and shall remain in effect until superseded by updated terms or terminated in accordance with the provisions herein. Clients acknowledge that engagement of professional services following the effective date constitutes acceptance of these Terms of Service in their entirety.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

RPKA Technologies Private Limited
205, Samruddhi Complex, opposite Sakar III, near Income Tax crossroads, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009

Service-Related Communications:
Email: support@theinsurancebar.com
Phone: +91-9227007875

Legal and Compliance Matters:
Email: support@theinsurancebar.com

Billing and Financial Matters:
Email: accounts@theinsurancebar.com

Privacy and Data Protection:
Email: support@theinsurancebar.com

REGULATORY DISCLAIMER: RPKA Technologies Private Limited is not regulated by IRDAI and does not engage in insurance business activities. All services are limited to legal consultation and advocacy related to existing insurance policies and claims.

Last Updated: 01/12/2025
Effective Date: 01/12/2025


CLIENT ACKNOWLEDGMENT: By engaging professional services provided by The Insurance Bar, clients acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service in their entirety, including all provisions regarding fees, liability limitations, dispute resolution, and other material terms affecting the professional relationship.

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