Practice operations
Practice basics: agreements, insurance and scope
Questions to work through with your own attorney, insurer and accountant before taking clients.
Key points
- A written engagement agreement typically covers scope, what you do not do, fees, billing, communication, permissions, termination and records handling.
- Professional liability (errors and omissions) and general liability coverage are commonly discussed with an insurance broker; needs depend on your services and state.
- Advocates who are not licensed clinicians or attorneys should avoid giving medical or legal advice; licensed professionals should check how their license applies.
- Business registration, taxes and any local licenses depend on your state and city.
- The PACB Code of Ethics and association ethics statements describe professional expectations for board-certified advocates.
In practice
- Use the Client intake and scope template to make boundaries explicit from the first conversation.
- Keep a referral list for legal aid, SHIP counselors and licensed professionals.
Official sources
- PACB — Patient Advocate Certification Board (opens in a new tab)
- US Small Business Administration — Launch your business (opens in a new tab)
Educational summary, not legal advice. Deadlines depend on the notice, plan type and state.
Sources checked November 7, 2026. Rules change — confirm with the official source before acting.