In Connecticut we are not permitted to exculpate ourselves from negligent liability by written agreement. However, we are permitted to limit liability to a particular dollar amount by written agreement.

I would think that your liability in negligence would depend on the scope of the duty owed to your client and whether your conduct met the standard of care required. In Connecticut the scope of the duty owed can be carefully defined and established by written agreement. If you were a Connecticut abstractor my advice to you would be to make certain the parameters of the search are clearly established by written instrument, and to add a limitation as to the dollar amount of your liability. It goes without saying that you should also be properly insured.