George...

I don't want to appear as a nitpicker ~ but I have a problem with using the term "examiner" and "abstractor" interchangeably.  True, we as abstractors are required to do substantial "examination" in the process of compiling information as pertains to a property search but in no way are we examiners. I spent about 8 years examining and I am here to tell you that examination does not fall into your lap and even with training, it takes more than just a few months to become knowledgeable.  If you are dealing with policy issuance, then you need to hire the best you can find. Sure, there are second mortgage policies that are no big deal ..... and the short form policy that a number of title companies issue ....  but there are exceptions to the rule.  Those exceptions can wipe a company out; and it would only take a few.  After more than twenty years in this industry, I can tell you I learn something new time and again.  No offense Kevin, because I believe you are an exception, but I would wager a qualified examiner is more capable than most attorneys (with the exception of real estate law) at examination of title.

IMHO

Ellen