16.62 Elements of Defense: Learned Professional Exemption is a legal doctrine that provides certain professionals with immunity from civil liability for their acts or omissions performed within the scope of their profession. It applies to a wide range of professionals, including doctors, lawyers, architects, engineers, accountants, and other professionals who have special expertise and qualifications in their respective fields. The doctrine is based on the idea that these professionals have the necessary knowledge and experience to perform their duties in a competent manner and should not be held liable for any mistakes or errors they may make in the course of their professional activities. There are two main types of Learned Professional Exemption: absolute immunity, which applies to professionals regardless of the circumstances, and qualified immunity, which provides some protection but requires that the professional acted with reasonable care. In either case, the professional must have acted within the scope of their professional duties and can be held liable for any negligence or willful misconduct.