Next Generation Partners

Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Insurance

The insurance team at the Parisian office of global law firm DAC Beachcroft specialises in advising insurers, reinsurers and corporates on product liability claims and industrial risk, displaying particular strength in the energy sector.
Watson Farley & Williams LLP launched its practice in July 2022 with the arrival of Franck Poindessault, who has extensive experience in insurance disputes, especially relating to financial risk, from Boken.

Firms in the Spotlight Insurance

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES logo

A FULL-EXPERTISE HUMAN RESOURCES LAW FIRM   Founded in 1987, Chassany Watrelot & Associés (CWA) is one of the main French law firms whose activity is exclusively dedicated to employment law and all other legal areas related to human resources management (insurance law, tax law…).

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Vivien & Associés

Vivien & Associés logo

Vivien & Associés offers competitive legal services and representation across a broad range of key practice areas:

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Insurance in France

Clyde & Co LLP

The powerhouse Paris insurance practice of global firm Clyde & Co LLP remains a market leader, advising major insurance and reinsurance companies (including Chubb, Liberty and Zurich) on a diverse spectrum of matters. Headed by experienced arbitrator and mediator David Méheut and Rozenn Lopin, who brings expertise in adapting insurance policies to French law to the table, the group provides a comprehensive service covering industrial risks, professional liability (including for lawyers, accountants and brokers), new technologies, data security, and property, directors’ and officers’ (D&O), and credit insurance. The team is supported by practice area expert Gildas Rostain (a specialist in industrial risks) and experienced litigator Olga Jefremova (who was promoted to partner in May 2022). Its client base spans such sectors as tech, construction, transport and renewables.

Practice head(s):

David Méheut; Rozenn Lopin


Other key lawyers:

Gildas Rostain; Olga Jefremova


Testimonials

‘The Clyde & Co insurance team is one of the teams on the market with the most advanced skills. Their reasoning is always very advanced while remaining pragmatic. We can count on them to find innovative solutions to our difficulties.’

‘It is always a pleasure to work with them. They are committed to providing effective solutions. They are available in the most delicate moments.’

Key clients

Chubb


Liberty


Zurich


Work highlights


  • Acting for Zurich as monitoring and coverage counsel in a major case relating to a ransomware attack which affected Bouygues IT.

DLA Piper

Benefitting from the firm’s presence spanning the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, the Paris team at DLA Piper remains a leader in the market, assisting major insurers (including Allianz Group, AXA Group, Tokio Marine, Generali, Zurich and AIG) involved in high-value, multi-jurisdictional insurance transactions. The team advises on matters ranging from tort and personal injury, product liability and property claims to casualty, cyber, trade credit and credit risk matters, and also handles civil and criminal pre-litigation, litigation and arbitration cases. International liability and aviation industry expert Vonnick Le Guillou and life and non-life insurance specialist Luc Bigel (who was promoted to partner in April 2022) head the team, supported by counsel Hamza Akli, who has expertise in issues of regulatory compliance.

Practice head(s):

Vonnick Le Guillou; Luc Bigel


Other key lawyers:

Hamza Akli


Testimonials

‘Very strong reactivity and solid knowledge of the regulatory field and the international environment.’

‘Luc Bigel and Hamza Akli are accessible, dynamic, sensible and understand our needs well.’

‘Friendly, responsive and very competent team. Knows how to remain pragmatic and balance advice and deliverables to adapt them to clients’ needs. We know we can count on them. They are careful to offer appropriate fees.’

‘Luc Bigel and Hamza Akli in the Paris office are interested in their cases. Their regular production of concise and educational legal articles and works sets them apart and keeps them at the forefront of many subjects. They are able to produce readable, useful and succinct advice.’

‘Deep and practical knowledge of US-French insurance law and the interplay between them.’

‘The traits of DLA Piper that come to mind the most are their availability, their responsiveness and their close relationships with their clients. We have several communication channels to discuss issues formally and informally, depending on what is most appropriate to the situation. In particular, I favour DLA Piper for their network of international lawyers, which allows them to act as a one-stop shop for all of my requirements in Europe. Last but not least, the quality of work lives up to DLA Piper’s reputation.’

‘I mainly worked with Hamza Akli and Luc Bigel. They were able to put me in touch with the most relevant lawyers in the firm throughout Europe with regard to my sector and my requirements. They have also been able to establish a real relationship of trust by being available, responsive and ensuring quality work. Finally, their mastery of insurance law is remarkable and allowed us to carry on without any concerns.’

Key clients

Allianz Group


AXA Group


Tokio Marine HCC


Generali


AIG


MS Amlin Insurance SE


La Réunion Aérienne


RSA


Zurich Insurance PLC


Chubb


Aon


Sogelife


Marsh


Munich Re


MIC Insurance Company SA


Beazley Insurance Solutions Limited


Odyssey Re


MAIF


AXA Climate


Oney Insurance


Wakam


CNP Assurances


Crédit Suisse


Starstone


Swiss Re


FM Insurance Europe SA


Entoria


Lombard International Assurances


Allianz Risk Transfer AG


Work highlights


  • Advising Axa Climate in contractual, reinsurance and ESG matters, notably in the field of parametric insurance (for example, in relation to frost and tropical storm policies).
  • Advising Swiss Re on a range of Covid 19-related claims and related litigation.
  • Advised Compre on the acquisition of medical malpractice insurance portfolios covering French risks and the restructuring of the related reinsurance scheme, as well as putting in place third-party management delegation schemes.

Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

The insurance practice at Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. remains a leading force in the market, advising major insurers, operators in banking and finance, service providers, industrial groups and international law firms involved in high-value, cross-border transactions and complex litigation. Headed by insurance and reinsurance authority Richard Ghueldre (who brings over 25 years' experience in the practice area to the team) and Capucine Bernier (a specialist in civil liability, particularly non-life insurance disputes), the group has a comprehensive offering covering regulatory issues, insurance contract law, acquisitions, litigation and arbitration, accident management, and the establishment of insurance programmes and distribution schemes on a domestic and international level. Other key figures include counsel Charles-Eric Delamare-Deboutteville, a specialist in prudential regulation and insurance contracts, and associate Julie Brulé, who manages civil liability matters.


Practice head(s):

Richard Ghueldre; Capucine Bernier


Other key lawyers:

Charles-Eric Delamare-Deboutteville; Julie Brulé


Testimonials

‘Excellent responsiveness, meticulous and very thorough analysis of documents, perfect knowledge of similar files, unwavering support in a real relationship of trust, and excellent results, thanks to Richard Ghueldre and Julie Brulé.’

‘Innovative, responsive and thoughtful team.’

‘Richard Ghueldre stands out for his competence and professional and academic perspective.’

‘Our long-running case has been perfectly managed by Gide Loyrette Nouel for several years now because the team made available to us is made up of real experts, who are able to give us guidance on the possible options and advise us on the best one to follow, which is not so common in the market.’

‘Able to deliver real, high-quality support, combining availability, responsiveness and advice. Given the expertise of this firm in complex litigation of this type, particularly at the procedural level, there is no doubt that it will also be able to advise other clients as well as possible on simpler cases.’

‘Very efficient team formed around a partner who is well known in the sector. A team of very solid, efficient, attentive, inventive colleagues.’

‘Julie Brulé is particularly distinguished within the team by her availability, the strength of her knowledge and the attention she pays to her client. Her advice has a particular quality that I greatly appreciate – it is very informative, which gives full meaning to the notion of advice.’

‘Excellent knowledge of the file, reactivity, extremely judicious proposals. Listen and take into account the clients’ internal constraints.’

Key clients

Total Energies


Primonial


Chanel


EDF


Zurich


Howden


QBE


Aon


Generali


Allianz


Société Générale / Sogecap


Crédit agricole / Predica


BNP Paribas / Cardif


Peugeot


Axeria


Audiens


MMA


MACSF


Uneo


Vyv


AG2R La Mondiale


Assurances du Crédit Mutuel


Harmonie Mutuelle


MGEN


Ageas


Tocqueville Finance


Blackfin Capital Partners


Mutuelle des Architectes Français (MAF)


Euromaf


Filassistance


Albingia


Covéa


Arthur J. Gallagher


Europ Assistance


LVMH


McDonald’s


Axa


Naval Group


France Assureurs (Fédération Française de l’Assurance)


CNP Assurances


Work highlights


  • Represented AXA France IARD in mass litigation regarding compensation for losses due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Advised France Assureurs in the context of regulatory changes applicable to the insurance sector and the setting of market practices.
  • Advised one of the world’s leading car manufacturers on the compliance of its insurance distribution schemes throughout its network.

HFW

Backed by the full bench strength of the firm's global network, the Paris insurance team at HFW utilises its experience to advise major insurers (including Axa, Zurich and Generali), underwriters, policyholders, brokers and other intermediaries involved high-value, multi-jurisdictional transactions. The group assists with matters ranging from industrial risks, product liability, professional indemnity and public liability to high-stakes litigation. Led by seasoned insurance litigator Pauline Arroyo, the other key figures in the team include Olivier Purcell (an experienced international arbitrator), industrial risks dispute specialist Guillaume Brajeux and Iris Vögeding (who has expertise in the transport, pharmaceuticals, food and energy sectors).

Practice head(s):

Pauline Arroyo


Other key lawyers:

Guillaume Brajeux; Iris Vögeding; Olivier Purcell


Key clients

AXA France


AXA XL


Covea / MMA


Ergo Versicherung


Generali


Helvetia


Hiscox


Zurich


Squire Patton Boggs

The insurance and reinsurance team at Squire Patton Boggs continues to be a key player in the practice area, employing the bench strength of its global network to advise major international insurance companies and middle-market European insurance companies on a diverse spectrum of matters. Headed by Paris office managing partner Carole Sportes (who specialises in aviation law and product liability litigation) and Valérie Ravit (an expert in environmental liability claims), the group provides a comprehensive service, which extends to regulatory compliance, reinsurance and policy review matters, and professional indemnity and coverage litigation. In addition, the team assists with handling serial losses for pharmaceutical and medical device companies.

Practice head(s):

Carole Sportes; Valérie Ravit


Testimonials

‘Squire Patton Boggs are the go-to firm for the most complex claims relating to the casualty insurance business.’

‘Valérie Ravit is the key figure in the firm and one of the most respected lawyers in the French market. One of the best insurance lawyers I have worked with in 30 years.’

ADVANT Altana

The veteran team at Paris independent law firm ADVANT Altana – which is part of the ADVANT association of European law firms – brings strength to advising major insurers (such as AXA and AIG), reinsurers, intermediaries and corporates on a wide range of matters across the practice area. Led by Gilles Gaillard (a cross-border transaction and regulated sector expert with over 20 years’ experience), Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy (who provides expertise in business litigation and pre-litigation) and Frédéric Manin (a specialist in competition and antitrust law), the group’s full offering in the insurance sector extends to class actions, arbitration and mediation, insurance products, regulatory compliance, civil liability and damages cases, cyber-risk and M&A.

Testimonials

‘Quality analysis and great responsiveness.’

‘Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy has a high level of investment in the case.’

‘The Advant Altana team is brilliant. The advice is provided in a pragmatic and always operational way.’

‘Extremely competent and very available partner. Friendly and competent team.’

‘The ADVANT Altana team is forceful. I have great confidence in them, particularly Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy, with whom we have been working for a long time. The team’s responsiveness, endurance and creativity, and the perpetual search for solutions in the client’s favour are very much appreciated. It is also a firm that seeks to immerse itself in the culture of its client and to get to know the client well in order to offer the best service.’

Key clients

Aéma Groupe (MACIF / Aésio)


Ag2r la mondiale


AIG


APPN


AXA


BNP Paribas Cardif


Cardif Lux


Covéa


CNOSF


Credendo


GPSA


Groupama


Inshur BV


Klesia


Malakoff Humanis


Marsh


Matmut / Mgefi


MMA Vie Assurances Mutuelles


Tutelaire


Dentons

The Paris insurance practice at Dentons leverages the strength of its global network, which spans six continents and over 80 countries, and the experience of its team to advise top insurers, reinsurers, brokers, financial institutions and clients in the construction, transport and energy sectors on high-value, multi-jurisdictional matters. The group represents clients in high-stakes litigation and arbitration, and also assists with the review of insurance programmes, warranties and indemnities, and claims management. Frédérique de La Chapelle (the head of the firm’s European insurance practice, who has over 25 years’ experience in the area) and Paris managing partner and seasoned insurance litigator Séverine Hotellier lead the practice.

Practice head(s):

Frédérique de La Chapelle; Séverine Hotellier


Testimonials

‘Séverine Hotellier knows our sector of activity and our requirements perfectly. She is very involved in our matters and knows the files perfectly. It is also very easy and pleasant to work with her.’

DWF (France) AARPI

The Paris insurance team of DWF (France) AARPI leverages the deep bench strength of its 30 offices worldwide and the experience of its team to advise major insurance and reinsurance companies (including QBE, Zurich, Allianz and Tokio Marine) on a diverse spectrum of matters across such sectors as construction and energy. Led by veteran insurance litigator Romain Dupeyré, the group assists with insurance coverage disputes, recovery proceedings, professional liability claims, regulatory issues, product liability and the insurance aspects of M&A deals.

Practice head(s):

Romain Dupeyré


Key clients

Everest Re


RSA


QBE


Hiscox


Zurich


Travelers


Allianz


Tokio Marine Kiln


Newline


Starr Underwriting


Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Harnessing the bench strength of offices across the Americas and the Asia Pacific and EMEA regions, the experienced team at the Paris office of Herbert Smith Freehills LLP advises major insurers, reinsurers and brokers (among them Generali, AXA, Swiss Re and CNP Assurances) on contentious and non-contentious matters across the insurance sector. The group’s full service extends to regulatory compliance and investigations, export pre-financing insurance, policyholder disputes, pension contracts and M&A. The practice is headed by financial dispute expert Martin Le Touzé and insurance asset management specialist Vincent Hatton, while Hubert Segain, who brings strength in crisis management matters to the table, is another key figure.

Practice head(s):

Martin Le Touzé; Vincent Hatton


Other key lawyers:

Hubert Segain; César Michel


Testimonials

‘Herbert Smith Freehills have always shown commitment to their work. They demonstrate great flexibility, creativity, and expertise in finding the best solutions for their client. Each member of the team is a trusted adviser who has a great deal of technical mastery and legal knowledge.’

‘Vincent Hatton is a great lawyer who is talented in the field of regulation, including in the insurance sector. His diligence, expertise, and strong skills in crafting first-class and tailor-made advice make him the best partner to collaborate with.’

‘Martin Le Touzé has great knowledge of the sector.’

Key clients

Allianz Trade (formerly Euler Hermes)


April


Bpifrance Assurance Export


CNP Assurances


CAIRS Assurances


Generali


Scor


Work highlights


  • Advised Generali on the acquisition of La Médicale, Crédit Agricole Assurances’ insurance subsidiary for healthcare professionals.
  • Advising Generali Vie in the context of various disputes before courts.
  • Assisted Bpifrance Assurance Export with the update and modernisation of its French law-governed documentation on pre-export finance (including the master framework agreement and related notices).

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Powered by the deep bench strength of offices across the Americas and the Asia Pacific and EMEA regions, the Paris insurance team at Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP assists major insurers and reinsurers (including Aviva, Allianz, Zurich, AXA and Chubb) and financial institutions on a wide range of transactional and regulatory matters. Led by corporate insurance authority Sébastien Gros, the group advises clients on insurance products and licensing requirements, M&A, disposal of assets, joint ventures, group reorganisations, and portfolio and business transfers. Paris and London-based Sharon Lewis, who has a strong insurance securitisation practice, and counsel Ghina Farah, who specialises in matters involving e-money and payment institutions, are also names to note.


Practice head(s):

Sébastien Gros


Other key lawyers:

Sharon Lewis; Ghina Farah


Testimonials

‘Very pleasant team – very professional and competent.’

‘Efficiency and availability.’

‘The team, and especially Sébastien Gros, have an extremely quick turnaround time, providing detailed and practical answers. Their industry knowledge is quite unique, especially for reinsurance matters.’

‘Sébastien Gros is truly a conductor capable of setting to music, with the help of Ghina Farah, the most complex legal scores. Beyond unparalleled technical ability in insurance matters, Sébastien and Ghina demonstrate exceptional client service and availability.’

‘One key capability is delivering in a practical manner.’

‘One of the main assets of the team is its uniformity – the quality of the work delivered by each member of the team is very high. The entire team has a perfect knowledge of the market and is able to offer solutions that are both pragmatic and innovative, while respecting budgets and deadlines.’

Key clients

Ag2R La Mondiale


Allianz


April


Assurant (CWI Group)


Assured Guaranty


Aviva


AXA


Chubb


CNP Assurances


Coface


Ergo


Euler Hermes


Generali


Ledger


MetLife


Munich Re


OVH Cloud


RGA


SCOR


Sompo


Zurich Eurolife


Work highlights


  • Advised CNP Assurances on the acquisition of some of Aviva’s Italian life insurance businesses.
  • Advised CNP Assurances on the disposal of its Spanish subsidiary, CNP Partners de Seguros y Reaseguros SA.
  • Advised SCOR Group on the drafting and negotiation of two quota share retrocession treaties between its Irish subsidiaries and Covéa for a consideration of approximately €1bn.

Kennedys

Backed by the strength of 72 offices worldwide, the Paris team of Kennedys takes a multidisciplinary approach to advising major insurance and reinsurance companies, brokers and policyholders on contentious and non-contentious matters, including coverage disputes, claims for physical damage and loss of income, recovery actions and professional liability cases. Paris office managing partner and co-founder, and insurance and reinsurance specialist Alexis Valençon has experience in litigation and arbitration. Aurélia Cadain provides expertise in transport litigation and product liability. Nicolas Bouckaert handles insurance matters in such sectors as aerospace, real estate, manufacturing and finance.


Other key lawyers:

Alexis Valençon; Aurélia Cadain; Nicolas Bouckaert


Testimonials

‘Kennedys is more than a group of offices under the same corporate banner – it is a network of individuals who understand their specialisms and industries inside and out, yet are happy to exchange knowledge collaboratively.’

‘Nicolas Bouckaert straddles the two jurisdictions of France and England and Wales like Colossus in pinstripes. For clients dealing with cross-border issues, Nicolas is the default choice.’

‘The insurance law team in Kennedys’ Paris office is very strong in providing good analysis of complex insurance law issues and timely legal advice.’

‘Alexis Valençon is an excellent lawyer who works diligently for his clients and provides strong legal analysis of complex issues.’

Signature Litigation AARPI

The insurance specialists in the Paris office of multinational law firm Signature Litigation AARPI have strength in advising insurers such as Allianz, QBE and Global Aerospace, financial institutions such as Société Générale, and corporates across the retail, mining and luxury goods sectors on a diverse spectrum of insurance matters. Led by founding partners Emmanuèle Lutfalla (an expert in insurance and reinsurance litigation and claims management) and Thomas Rouhette (who assists aviation industry clients with product liability and medical issues), the team offers a comprehensive service which extends to policy wording, coverage issues, industrial risk investigations, and high-value, cross-border claims related to environmental pollution and operating losses.

Practice head(s):

Emmanuèle Lutfalla; Thomas Rouhette


Testimonials

‘The firm has good expertise in international litigation and, in particular, American law in our sector of activity. The team are available.’

Key clients

Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty France


Allianz IARD


HDI Canada


Katara Europe


QBE


Global Aerospace


Société Générale


Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty China


Leroy Merlin


Work highlights


  • Advised Allianz on a CAD 455m case involving pollution damages in Canada.
  • Representing Société Générale in two distinct insurance coverage cases, arising from US class actions involving the so-called IBOR and gold-fixing investigations.

Tamaris Avocats

Formed in January 2021 with the arrival of Alexandra Cohen-Jonathan and a team of associates from August DebouzyTamaris Avocats is experienced in high-stakes matters, advising major insurers (among them Allianz, AXA XL and Chubb) involved in product liability disputes and corporates with industrial insurance claims across such sectors as construction, energy, IT and motor vehicles. Cohen-Jonathan also brings strength in mass claims, serial claims and professional civil liability issues (including D&O liability) to the practice. Other key figures include Victoire Boulanger, who was promoted to senior associate in July 2022, and associate Héloïse Nouvel, who assists clients with health products and compensation for personal injury.

Practice head(s):

Alexandra Cohen-Jonathan


Other key lawyers:

Victoire Boulanger; Héloïse Nouvel; Clothilde Leroux


Key clients

Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty


AXA XL


Chubb European Group SE


Indigo Group


Sederma


Plastic Omnium


HDI Global Specialty SE


HDI Global SE


Systra


Work highlights


  • Representing Cordier and Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) in a dispute before the Commercial Court of Bordeaux seeking damages for the incorrect bottling of organic white wine.
  • Assisting Chubb with the analysis of the insurance coverage of a French manufacturer of industrial lamps installed in a factory in the Netherlands.
  • Acting as monitoring counsel for AGCS, Alstom Transport’s insurer, in the context of two proceedings before the Paris Administrative Court, initiated by RATP and related to alleged non-compliance with contractual commitments concerning the design and manufacture of rolling stock and IT equipment.

Taylor Wessing

Backed by a global network spanning the Americas, Africa, Europe and the Middle East, the insurance group at the Paris office of Taylor Wessing employs its experience and expertise to assist major insurers and reinsurers (including Chubb, Zurich, Swiss Re, Generali and AIG) and household-name corporates with high-stakes claims across such industries as IT, aerospace, food, retail, chemicals and entertainment. The group also assists with product liability and business interruption claims, D&O liability, insurance matters in the marine sector and credit risks. The team is headed by Pierre-Olivier Leblanc, a specialist in professional indemnity claims, industrial risks and subrogation claims, and supported by cyber claim expert Marc Schuler.

Practice head(s):

Pierre-Olivier Leblanc


Other key lawyers:

Marc Schuler; Paul Berger de Gallardo


Testimonials

‘A dynamic team – available, responsive and extremely specialised in the field of insurance.’

‘The team is very proactive and knowledgeable about the French insurance market and the specific challenges involved in insurance litigation.’

‘Pierre-Olivier Leblanc is a remarkable individual who is very knowledgeable and with whom it is a pleasure to work.’

‘Pierre-Olivier Leblanc has a high level of technical ability and can manage crisis situations (including high-stakes international matters).’

Key clients

Chubb


Lubrizol


Zurich


Hiscox


Swiss Re


XL Insurance


Generali


MMA – Covéa Risks


AIG


MSIG


Munich RE


Axis Insurance


R+V Versicherung AG


Albingia


Work highlights


  • Coordinating with Lubrizol’s damage and liability insurers and defending Lubrizol in all civil and commercial proceedings issued against it in relation to a factory fire.
  • Assisting Hiscox in the context of two claims reported by an insured security services provider specialising in the banking sector following bank card fraud on an international scale.
  • Assisting Hiscox with the definition of specific cover addressing real-time operating solutions based on AI with control applications in critical operating systems.

Alerion

Utilising the experience of its multidisciplinary team, the insurance practice at Paris law firm Alerion provides a comprehensive service to major insurance companies, brokers, and others insurance intermediaries and policyholders. Led by seasoned insurance litigator Philippe Mathurin, the team assists with risk management, the implementation and audit of insurance programmes, the implementation of insurance guarantees, online insurance and regulatory compliance. Nathalie Dupuy-Loup brings expertise in damage and liability insurance matters to the team. Partner Fahima Gasmi was promoted in May 2022.

Practice head(s):

Philippe Mathurin; Nathalie Dupuy-Loup


Other key lawyers:

Fahima Gasmi


Testimonials

‘I can testify to the quality of the team’s work in terms of competence, efficiency, availability and advice.’

Awkis

Headed by veteran litigator Anne-Sophie Pia, the experienced team at boutique Paris law firm Awkis advises major insurers involved in high-stakes financial and media matters. The group’s full service extends to risk assessment and pre-litigation and defence strategy.

Practice head(s):

Anne-Sophie Pia


Testimonials

‘An accessible, dynamic, available, responsive and innovative team.’

‘Anne-Sophie Pia masters legal issues relating to insurance perfectly. She knows how to build a team in her image: competent, available, and friendly.’

‘The Awkis team is available and responsive. We can count on the team to assist us in the management of our most delicate cases. Their expertise is essential.’

Baro Alto

A team of dedicated partners leads the insurance group at boutique Paris law firm Baro Alto, which advises insurance companies, intermediaries and insureds on a diverse spectrum of matters across the practice area. Géraldine Brasier Porterie advises industrial companies and luxury goods, banking and financial establishments, and assists with art collection and disaster insurance coverage, and product liability, construction law and D&O liability. Caroline Joly specialises in risk management and Pierrick Jupile-Boisverd has expertise in insurance arbitration.


Practice head(s):

Géraldine Brasier Porterie; Caroline Joly; Pierrick Jupile-Boisverd


Chatain & Associés

The experienced team at independent Paris law firm Chatain & Associés specialises in representing major insurers (such as Allianz, AIG, Hiscox and Generali) and their policyholders in insurance litigation, including civil liability claims. The group is led by high-risk industrial and IT claims experts Antoine Chatain and Thomas de Boysson, and Dominique Ham, who also manages matters involving new technologies.

Practice head(s):

Antoine Chatain; Thomas de Boysson; Dominique Ham


Testimonials

‘Chatain offers quality services with a very dynamic and forceful strategic approach. The follow-up and the information provided are irreproachable and the lawyers of the firm are very available and easily reachable.’

‘Antoine Chatain, Dominique Ham and Thomas de Boysson are always proactive, especially in complex cases, and have great technical skills. They are very responsive. The arrangements are always of a high quality. I trust them completely with our business matters.’

Key clients

Allianz IARD


Hiscox


Generali


SNCF Fret


Altawest/ Leroux & Lotz Technologies


Monoprix


AIG


Suez


DS Avocats

Backed by the combined bench strength of 22 offices in 13 countries, the DS Avocats team in Paris advises French and international insurers and reinsurers (including Allianz and AXA XL), intermediaries, industrial groups and major corporates in the aviation sector (such as Air France) on a diverse spectrum of insurance matters. Headed by Safine Hadri, an expert in the management of industrial risk, and supported by coverage dispute specialist Benjamin Potier, the group assists with civil and product liability claims, regulatory compliance, and the development of policies and agreements, as well as complementary employee plans.

Practice head(s):

Safine Hadri


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin Potier


Testimonials

‘The DS Avocats insurance team brings together lawyers who provide pragmatic solutions, particularly in the context of relationships with the supervisory authorities.’

‘Safine Hadri is an available specialist who provides effective assistance in insurance law issues and dealings with the competent supervisory authorities.’

Key clients

Galian Assurances/Galian Courtage


ANCDGP -Refrome Du Courtage


Ornikar Assurance


Air France


Oppens Société Générale


Beazley (Lloyds)


Global Aerospace


Brachot Hermant SAS


Amtrust (Lloyds)


Orca Systemes


Wipelec


Fashion Cube


Koala


XL Insurance Company (AXA Group)


Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty


Vynova


Work highlights


  • Assisted the ANCDGP, the national association of asset management consultants, in litigation before the Council of State and the Constitutional Council relating to the reform of the brokerage system.

Franklin

The dedicated industrial risk and environment group at independent Paris law firm Franklin advises insurers, as well as corporates in across the retail, luxury goods, and pharmaceuticals industries, with a client base that includes Carrefour, Group Casino and Kering. The practice also brings strength to the energy sector, assisting such key market players as Total Petrochemicals France with high-value damages claims related to fires and explosions. Headed by industrial and real estate project specialist Xavier Marchand and supported by associate Sarah Pezzana, who brings experience in the health sector to the table, the firm has a full-service offering which extends to crisis management, environmental disasters, business interruption, policy management and the management of compensation payments.

Practice head(s):

Xavier Marchand


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Pezzana


Testimonials

‘A competent, dynamic and very efficient team.’

‘Xavier Marchand handles many files for our company. He is always very available and attentive. His drafting is always accurate and elicits very few comments or requests for changes from us. Our company has had the opportunity to work with many law firms, but, frankly, Franklin stands out!’

Key clients

Bernardaud


Carrefour


Evergaz/Meridiam


Groupe Casino


GSE


Kering


Lapeyre


Mr Bricolage


Point P


Servier


Teddy Smith


Total


Urbaser


Work highlights


  • Acted for Total Petrochemicals France in a case relating to an explosion at a petrochemical plant which affected the group’s supply of naphtha derivatives, resulting in operating losses of several hundred million euros.

Herald Avocats

The multidisciplinary team at Paris-based law firm Herald Avocats brings strength to advising major insurers and intermediaries on health and life insurance cases, as well as on a wide range of matters across the practice area. Led by environmental expert Christophe Bourdel, insurance dispute resolution specialist Emmanuelle Cardon and experienced real estate litigator Pierre-Yves Rossignol, the group covers construction insurance and product liability, prudential regulations, and disputes between insurers and intermediaries. Bruno Quint retired from the firm in December 2022.


Practice head(s):

Christophe Bourdel; Pierre-Yves Rossignol; Emmanuelle Cardon


Testimonials

‘Very competent and available partners.’

HW&H

Led by experienced insurance litigator Béatrice Deshayes, the team at HW&H advises French and international groups and major insurers (including Allianz, AXA, Chubb and Zurich) on a wide spectrum of matters. Supported by multi-jurisdictional specialist and office co-founder Dominique Heintz, the group provides a full service which covers product liability, civil liability and alternative dispute resolution. The team’s expertise spans such sectors as motor vehicles, energy, electronics and transport. Michael Wolfer retired in July 2022.

Practice head(s):

Béatrice Deshayes


Other key lawyers:

Dominique Heintz


Testimonials

‘The firm has an excellent international presence.’

‘The HW&H team has deep know-how and a lot of experience, especially in industry-related matters. They are very responsive and reliable.’

‘Beatrice Deshayes has been very helpful in various matters, especially when they are time critical and complex.’

Key clients

AGCS


Allianz IARD


AXA


Chubb


Zurich


Basler


Laude Esquier & Associés

Dedicated dispute resolution boutique Laude Esquier & Associés brings strength to representing insurers (such as AON and CNP Assurance) and insureds (across such sectors as construction, building materials, tourism, real estate, entertainment and manufacturing) involved in disputes and conflicts with regulatory authorities, as well as a broad span of issues across the practice area. Headed by life insurance expert Richard Esquier, the group has expertise in criminal investigations, policy analysis, Covid-19 operating losses, product liability, loss of profit insurance, and complex litigation and arbitration. In June 2022, Benoit Renard, Laetitia Arzel and Pauline Daraux were all promoted to counsel.

Practice head(s):

Richard Esquier


Other key lawyers:

Benoit Renard; Laetitia Arzel; Pauline Daraux


Testimonials

‘Quality advice and follow-up for our litigation cases.’

‘Good availability and responsiveness.’

Key clients

Sunergia


Diot


Matisa


Legrand


Homevi


Cardif Lux Vie


Wealins


CNP Assurances


Lafarge


Baloise


LPA-CGR avocats

The insurance team at Paris law firm LPA-CGR avocats has experience in advising major insurers, underwriters and civil engineering, manufacturing, energy, water management and transport companies on a broad span of insurance matters. These range from policy drafting and distribution, risk management and claims analysis to insurance litigation and settlements. The multi-disciplinary practice features two dedicated sub-sections: industrial risks, led by experienced litigator Alexia Eskinazi, which tackles precautionary measures and proceedings related to damage and civil liability, and financial risks, led by professional liability expert Arnaud Molinier, which covers matters relating to the liability of financial institutions, regulated professions and directors. The team is supported by of counsel Gilles Gassenbach.

Practice head(s):

Arnaud Molinier; Alexia Eskinazi


Other key lawyers:

Gilles Gassenbach


Testimonials

‘Gilles Gassenbach and Alexia Eskinazi are longstanding business partners for us, whom we appreciate for their accuracy, their responsiveness, their knowledge of our businesses, and their results.’

‘Very good team, with a very good approach to the problems encountered by our companies. The advice is sound and litigation is avoided when possible.’

‘Alexia Eskinazi comes up with strong recommendations, is clear in her analysis and the proposal of strategy, and has the ability to anticipate issues.’

‘Very in-depth knowledge of technical subjects. Responsiveness. Ability to work on cross-cutting issues with several departments of the firm.’

‘Excellent knowledge of legislation and case law. Teams are highly available. Ability to respond within short deadlines.’

‘The team I work with at LPA-CGR has particularly specialised skills in the field of liability and insurance and environmental law, reinforced by a very good knowledge of the energy services business, which is very valuable to me.’

‘Alexia Eskinazi has a good approach to our issues and cases. She comes up with a proper strategy and does not immediately turn to litigation. She advises us very well and very astutely, and allows us to approach our problems calmly.’

Key clients

Arcelor Mittal


Dalkia


Eiffage Energie


Lavera Energies


Lineas


Sonnedix


Transdev


Veolia


Voltalia


Norton Rose Fulbright

The insurance practice at the Paris office of Norton Rose Fulbright utilises the experience of its team to advise major banks, private equity firms, insurers and reinsurers on a wide spectrum of insurance issues, with a client base that includes BNP Paribas, Bridgepoint, Allianz and AIG. The group offers a full service, which extends to the structuring and setting-up of insurance entities (both insurance undertakings and mediation companies), regulatory permissions, outsourcing agreements and compliance reviews. Insurance sector expert Bénédicte Denis, who specialises in cross-border M&A, leads the team, with support from Christian Dargham, a specialist in alternative dispute resolution and arbitration.


Practice head(s):

Bénédicte Denis


Other key lawyers:

Christian Dargham


Key clients

Allianz SE


Allianz Partners


Apicil Group


Covéa


Bridgepoint


Europ Assistance


AIG


AmTrust


CNA Hardy


La Mondiale Europartner SA


BNP Paribas Cardif


PBA LEGAL

Led by experienced insurance litigators Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon and Stéphane Lataste, the team at boutique Paris firm PBA LEGAL provides advice to major insurers and reinsurers (including Chubb, Allianz, Swiss Re and QBE) on a diverse spectrum of matters across the practice area. The group’s comprehensive service extends to regulatory compliance, coverage disputes, fraud-related litigation, product and industrial liability, arbitration, accidents and complex jurisdictional disputes.


Practice head(s):

Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon; Stéphane Lataste


Testimonials

‘Particular strengths of this team include a high level of competence in the field of product liability and very quick feedback.’

‘Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon stands out for her leadership.’

Key clients

MIC Insurance


Chubb European Group SE


MMA


Allianz


QBE


Galian Assurances


Generali


XL Catlin


Swiss Re


Great Northern Insurance Company


Assurances Pilliot


Zurich Insurance


AON France


Preel Hecquet Payet-Godel PHPG Avocats

Leveraging the experience of its team, the insurance group at Paris law firm Preel Hecquet Payet-Godel PHPG Avocats advises major insurers and policyholders operating in the industrial sector. The practice is headed by firm co-founders Françoise Hecquet and Jean-Baptiste Payet-Godel, who specialise in civil liability and construction matters, insurance and banking expert Charlotte Roger and Romain Bruillard, who coordinates training sessions offered by the firm.


Practice head(s):

Françoise Hecquet; Jean-Baptiste Payet-Godel; Charlotte Roger; Romain Bruillard


Testimonials

‘PHPG has an excellent insurance practice, especially industrial risks insurance, general third-party insurance and product liability insurance. Their expertise is unique and can help clients to resolve complex insurance claims involving technical and financial matters.’

‘Françoise Hecquet has vast experience in the field of insurance and can effectively defend the client against insurance claims with her deep knowledge of the market and the law. She can formulate the best legal strategy for disputes under insurance policies, which delivers successful results for clients.’

SORBA PAYRAU

Led by Emmanuelle Payrau, an expert in regulatory and compliance matters, the team at boutique Paris firm SORBA PAYRAU advises insurers, asset managers and corporates in the construction, pharmaceutical, automobiles, manufacturing and hospitality sectors, including Groupe La Française, Vinci and Ipsen, on broad range of contentious and non-contentious insurance matters. These include business interruption events, professional liability claims and serial damage matters.

Practice head(s):

Emmanuelle Payrau


Testimonials

‘The Sorba Payrau team treats each case rigorously and thoroughly in order to find the best defence strategies for its clients. As a result, we often turn to them for our most complex, high-stakes cases. We know that Emmanuelle Payrau will take the necessary time to understand the issues and find the most appropriate solutions. She is reassuring and allows us to remain calm, including in relation to our most important cases. It is rare to have a partner who is so available and has such good knowledge of the case.’

‘Efficient and well-considered handling of insurance litigation.’

‘We had a good experience of working with Emmanuelle Payrau.’

Key clients

AEW


Groupe La Française


Ipsen


Vinci Group


Work highlights


  • Acting for a global leader in the trade of agricultural products in an insurance dispute in which the client is seeking compensation for pecuniary losses incurred following the recovery of export refunds and subsidies paid in accordance with EU regulations.
  • Acting for several Vinci Group companies in an insurance dispute in which the clients are claiming compensation for repairs that had to be made to a maritime structure that suffered significant damage during construction.
  • Advising a leading France-based restaurant group on seeking compensation for operating losses that it suffered due to the closing of several dozen restaurants following the lockdown put in place by the government during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Stephenson Harwood

The team at the Paris office of Stephenson Harwood employs the bench strength of eight offices across Asia, Europe and the Middle East to handle litigation proceedings for major insurance companies, overseas cargo carriers, maritime shipping companies and corporates across such sectors as mining, energy, chemicals and waste management, counting RSA and Maersk among its clients. Headed by Nicolas Demigneux, the group has expertise in professional and product liability matters.

Practice head(s):

Nicolas Demigneux


Testimonials

‘I have been working with the team for a long time, and they know my needs and requirements perfectly. We receive quick responses from them.’

Key clients

Atalian


Lion Air Airline


Ciel Voyage


Transportation Partners


The Hartford (formerly Navigators)


Talbot Underwriting


Hiscox MGA Ltd.


JDA – Joseph Dirand Architecture


Louis Dreyfus Armateurs SAS


LD Ports & Logistics PTE Ltd.


Maersk Line A/S


Qatar Museums Authority


RSA Insurance Group PLC, RSA France and RSA Luxembourg


SK Geo Centric Co. Ltd.


Suez Group/SAS Degrémont France


Work highlights


  • Advising the insurers of a European leader in naval defence in coverage discussions with the lead underwriter, the broker and the insured following a fire that destroyed part of a nuclear attack submarine.
  • Representing Degrémont, a subsidiary of utility corporate Suez, before the Paris Commercial Court in a dispute with various sub-contractors, including Cegelec/Vinci, in relation to the construction of a water treatment plant.
  • Advising the underwriters on a marine yacht insurance policy following a fire that damaged a superyacht while undergoing refurbishment.