All the suits contended that the company had used deceptive sales practices.

But former employees and independent analysts say the company's sales practices have hardly changed.

Charges of improper sales practices have roiled the life insurance industry for the last few years.

It was the latest case of deceptive sales practices to emerge in the insurance industry.

"The problem seems to revolve around sales practices before 1988."

He added, "We think that's an area that needs to be looked at because it goes to the question of sales practices."

Critics of the industry say that the high termination rates stem in large part from the industry's sales practices.

Prudential's sales practices are being investigated by regulators from 27 states.

The court documents do not describe the sales practices.

The company also agreed to hire an independent consultant to review sales practices.