Legal expenses insurance remains the central point of contact for legal problems
Six out of ten Swiss people have legal expenses insurance – a significant increase of 8 percent compared to 2023. At the same time, a representative survey commissioned by the Swiss Insurance Association (SIA) shows that more than a third of respondents have experienced a situation in which they needed legal support.
In a legal dispute, legal expenses insurance remains the most frequently cited first point of contact at 43 percent. Next come lawyers, legal advice centers, as well as family and friends. Legal expenses insurance thus consolidates its role as the central hub for legal problems.
In this survey, the use of AI chatbots (such as ChatGPT or Gemini) as a point of contact for legal issues was recorded for the first time. Currently, 8 percent of the population would consult an AI chatbot—among 15- to 34-year-olds, the figure is 14 percent. At the same time, general internet research on legal questions is declining (from 23 percent in 2023 to 15 percent in 2026). This suggests that some online searchers are switching to AI tools.
Service and lawyer recommendations in focus
Policyholders primarily expect good service from their legal expenses insurer in the event of a legal case (54 percent), followed by good advice and coverage of costs. In addition, 80 percent of respondents want a recommendation from their legal expenses insurer when an external lawyer has to be appointed. This corresponds to a significant increase of 10 percent compared to 2023. Overall, policyholders’ experiences are positive: 82 percent report good experiences with their legal expenses insurance.
Take out online – but personal advice
Another interesting aspect emerges among 15‑ to 34‑year‑olds, the age group with the greatest growth potential. 47 percent of them want personal, on-site contact to discuss a legal case, which is 10 percent above the average. At the same time, 39 percent in this age group would take out legal expenses insurance online. This sends a clear message to the industry and underscores the importance of seamless interplay between digital and personal channels.
Notes to the Editorial Team
About the survey
The survey was conducted in March 2026 by the market research institute DemoSCOPE on behalf of the SIA Specialist Commission for Legal Protection. 1,114 people aged 15 and over in German-speaking Switzerland, French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino were surveyed online. The study is representative of Switzerland’s linguistically assimilated resident population. Comparative figures come from the gfs-zürich survey (April 2023, n = 1,207, by telephone); trend statements are indicative due to the different methodology.
About the SIA
The Swiss Insurance Association (SIA) is the industry organisation of Swiss private insurers. With around 70 members—including globally active primary insurers and reinsurers as well as nationally focused, specialised property, life and supplementary health insurers—the association represents around 90 percent of the insurance premiums generated in Switzerland. The SIA advocates for the sustainable development of the insurance industry and promotes solutions that contribute to the stability and security of the Swiss economy and society. In doing so, private insurance makes an important contribution to prosperity in Switzerland. The industry is among the country’s most productive and value-creating sectors and employs around 50,000 people.
Media contact
Swiss Insurance Association SIA
Phone: +41 44 208 28 14
Email: media@svv.ch