Clyde & Co LLP fields one of the largest insurance teams in the market and offers ‘fast, effective and pragmatic advice’ to multinational organisations on insurance litigation matters, including cases involving Directors' and Officers' liability insurance (D&O), marine, product liability, financial lines and business interruption policies. The London team frequently collaborates with the firm’s offices worldwide to advise its roster of UK and international clients on international litigation. Practice lead James Cooper has considerable experience acting for directors and officers and financial institutions on contentious multijurisdictional matters. Andrew Grant heads up the specialty practice, ‘solution-orientated’ Simon Jackson handles marine and energy insurance work, while Nigel Brook leads the firm’s reinsurance team, as well as the climate change risk practice. Neil Beresford handles product and environmental liability matters, and is another key contact in the team alongside Emma Ager, Mark Sutton, Mandip Sagoo, Michelle Crorie and experienced arbitrator and litigator Jane Andrewartha.
Insurance and reinsurance litigation in London
Clyde & Co LLP
Practice head(s):
James Cooper
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Grant; Simon Jackson; Nigel Brook; Neil Beresford; Emma Ager; Mark Sutton; Mandip Sagoo; Michelle Crorie; Jane Andrewartha; Paul Lowrie; Franco D’Andrea
Testimonials
‘Fast, effective and pragmatic advice.’
‘Simon Jackson is user-friendly and solution-orientated.’
‘Paul Lowrie: Highly skilled and empathic. Makes the difficult understandable. Gives the right recommendation’
Key clients
Axis
Kennedys
Kennedys handles some of the most notable, multijurisdictional insurance and reinsurance disputes in the market, across marine, construction and property damage claims, and is also noted for advising on complex cases involving fraud. Nick Williams, who heads up the practice, acts on a range of reinsurance and insurance matters, from financial institution litigation to Bermuda Form arbitrations. David Chadwick has particular expertise in the field of political risk, and Nick Thomas handles construction, commercial property and energy and power generation claims. Patrick Foss and Chris Zavos bolster the team’s marine offering, and John Bruce and Ingrid Hobbs are key contacts.
Practice head(s):
Nick Williams
Other key lawyers:
David Chadwick; Nick Thomas; Patrick Foss; Chris Zavos; John Bruce; Ingrid Hobbs
Key clients
Chubb
AIG
Allianz
Aviva
RSA
Aspen
Starstone
CNA Hardy
Beazley
Protector Forsikring ASA
Swiss Re
Brit
Liberty
Work highlights
- Advising Protector Insurance, the property and liability insurer of Grenfell Tower’s owner and manager, on all legal issues arising out of the events of 14 June 2017.
- Acting on behalf of a market of insurers and insured in a claim for losses sustained as a result of a fire at the Ferrybridge C Power Station on 31 July 2014.
- Acting on behalf of a market of insurers and a main contractor in a claim regarding the structural defects of a care home.
CMS
Praised for its ‘depth, expertise and international presence’, the insurance litigation practice at CMS acts for insurers and reinsurers in claims across the property, construction, energy, professional negligence and aviation insurance sectors. Practice leader Ed Foss has particular expertise in insurance broker liability, while Simon Garrett focuses on claims against financial institutions, D&O claims and professional indemnity disputes. Simon Kilgour and Alex Denslow are noted as ‘excellent practitioners with strong market acumen and knowledge’. Tristan Hall and Alaina Wadsworth, who focuses on healthcare, aviation and professional negligence insurance disputes, are key contacts in the team. The firm strengthened its London marine offering with the addition of David McKie from Kennedys .
Practice head(s):
Ed Foss
Other key lawyers:
Simon Garrett; Simon Kilgour; Alex Denslow; Tristan Hall; Alaina Wadsworth; Cheryl Gibson
Testimonials
‘Good, practical and commercially thoughtful advice. A strong focus on effective resolutions. The team has a strong technical depth allied to a very good understanding of their clients’ needs. Time is always spent establishing the client’s view of resolution strategy and anticipated outcome which helps in setting an effective strategy for resolution.’
‘Depth, expertise and international presence.’
‘Simon Kilgour and Alex Denslow – excellent practitioners with strong market acumen and knowledge. Very attuned to the clients’ needs and always deliver clear advice which is both practical and commercially considered.’
‘Collaborative in their approach. Nothing is too much trouble. CMS endeavour to truly understand our business in order to provide the best possible client service.’
‘Alex Denslow floats like a butterfly but stings like a bee.’
‘Cheryl Gibson [Bristol] is personable and a delight to work with. She gets excellent results.’
‘Tristan Hall is very bright, user friendly and increasingly a ‘go to’ specialist for complex D&O matters.
Key clients
QBE
Axis
Brit
AXA XL
WR Berkley
Beazley
Markel
Liberty
Tokio Marine Kilne
CNA Hardy
Work highlights
- Acting for Lonsdale in proceedings in the Commercial Court against its brokers for allegedly failing to procure appropriate insurance to cover a high profile claim brought against Harwood in the US.
- Acting for Marine War Risks insurers in a disputed multi-million dollar insurance claim for the alleged constructive total loss of a tanker following detonation of an explosive device when the vessel was at anchor off Fujairah, UAE, in May 2019.
- Acted for Spire in its successful coverage dispute against its primary layer insurers, RSA, relating to the alleged medical negligence and fraud of consultant surgeon, Mr Ian Paterson.
DAC Beachcroft LLP
DAC Beachcroft LLP handles insurance and reinsurance disputes involving energy, data protection, construction, property and professional indemnity policies. Wendy Hopkins has experience in multijurisdictional insurance matters and coverage issues, while Nick Young, Christopher Wilkes, Patrick Hill and James Deacon remain key contacts in the team. The practice benefits from the expertise of global head Liam O’Connell, as well as senior associate Sarah Hennessy. Lucy Dyson left to join RPC .
Practice head(s):
Liam O’Connell
Other key lawyers:
Nick Young; Christopher Wilkes; Patrick Hill; James Deacon; Sarah Hennessy; Wendy Hopkins
DLA Piper
The London-based team at DLA Piper benefits from the firm’s ‘international presence’ and the ‘availability of the full DLA Piper network’ to handle cross-border insurance disputes. The practice has expertise in disputes involving financial lines, aviation, property, construction, energy and casualty insurance. Head of the team Leon Taylor is experienced in acting in the UK courts and has a particular focus in international reinsurance contract and aviation coverage disputes. Andrew Symons has expertise in financial line disputes, while Rebecca Hopkirk is noted for handling cross-border insurance matters and Jane Childs leads the international financial lines insurance disputes practice.
Practice head(s):
Leon Taylor
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Symons; Rebecca Hopkirk; Jane Childs
Testimonials
‘Very broad expertise, and the availability of the full DLA Piper network in the background is useful.’
‘Leon Taylor in particular has provided excellent support.’
‘Excellent advice, strong reinsurance experience. Pragmatic approach. Approachable and responsive.’
‘Rebecca Hopkirk – an absolute gem. Very commercial and extremely responsive.’
‘The flexibility for the team to grow and contract as demands of the cases have shifted has been key. As a result of discovery demands and Covid-19 restrictions the team has searched for a delivered digital solutions.’
‘Depth, expertise, international presence, joined-up approach.’
Key clients
Swiss Re
AIG
Zurich
Chubb
Berkshire Hathaway/Faraday syndicate/Resolute Management
AXA XL
Munich Re
Tokio Marine Kiln
Allianz/AGCS
Liberty Specialty Markets
Talbot Underwriting Limited
Placing Platform Limited
R&Q
RSA
Atrium Underwriters Limited
Crawford & Co
Hiscox syndicate at Lloyds
Beazley syndicate at Lloyds
Gen Re
Partner Re
Brit
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP’s ‘industry knowledge, coupled with their great legal expertise, allows the team to provide excellent advice and a pragmatic approach to issues’ in insurance litigation. The team acts for insurers, reinsurers, captive insurers and brokers in matters involving professional negligence, property damage, business interruption issues and Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. Paul Lewis heads up the London team and the global contentious insurance practice, while David Reston specialises in professional negligence disputes. Greig Anderson advises financial institutions on a range of insurance matters while newly promoted partner Fiona Treanor is a key contact in the team. Anthony Dempster retired in March 2021 however the firm made a statement of intent in the summer of 2021 with the significant addition of Mayer Brown International LLP London insurance head William Glassey.
Practice head(s):
Paul Lewis
Other key lawyers:
David Reston; Greig Anderson; Fiona Treanor; William Glassey
Testimonials
‘Very good industry knowledge, coupled with great legal expertise, allows the team to provide excellent advice and a pragmatic approach to issues.’
‘Greig Anderson is extremely thorough and analytical in his approach but also able to give strategic advice where required.’
‘I think the team work well together. They are very knowledgeable in their area of law but also able to support us where we don’t have the capacity to carry out work, such as information gathering and analysis. They flex their approach to fit in with what we are able to deliver.’
Key clients
Aviva
Axis
Korean Re
Marsh
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
National Australia Bank (NAB)
Willis
Work highlights
- Acted for the FCA, which advanced the claim for policyholders in the Covid-19 Business Interruption insurance test case (FCA v Arch and Others) both in the High Court and Supreme Court.
- Advising AXIS Managing Agency on their position under an innocent owners marine insurance policy in respect of vessels alleged by owners to have been lost pursuant to orders of a foreign government authority.
- Advising Korean Re on a dispute with retrocessionaire reinsurers in relation to the grounding and subsequent constructive total loss of a vessel off the coast of Brazil.
HFW
‘With a strong base in London’ and offices in overseas jurisdictions, the team at HFW is well-placed to act for both insurers and reinsurers in insurance litigation and is particularly strong in disputes in Latin America. Led by Christopher Cardona, who is praised for his ‘exceptional knowledge’, the practice has sector knowledge in matters relating to energy, mining, shipping and construction. Other key contacts in the London-based team include experienced insurance and reinsurance partner Andrew Bandurka, Christopher Foster, Jonathan Bruce and Costas Frangeskides, who ‘brings a vast amount of insurance industry experience to his work’.
Practice head(s):
Christopher Cardona
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Bandurka; Christopher Foster; Jonathan Bruce; Costas Frangeskides
Testimonials
‘Christopher Cardona – exceptional knowledge, skills, abilities, acumen and discusses issues with the client based on the client.’
‘Costas Frangeskides is a great person and an even better attorney. He brings a vast amount of insurance industry experience to his work, and he is great at cross-border work. His historic knowledge often comes into play when providing advice, and he is always willing to drop everything for a time sensitive project. It is a pleasure working with him.’
‘Jonathan Bruce – excellent.’
‘HFW has a tremendous team supporting (re)insurance, with a strong base in London and offices in other important jurisdictions (including UAE and Brazil). They have the most well regarded solicitors in the London market and are extremely knowledgeable. I love working with them.’
RPC
RPC acts for major insurers and reinsurers in international litigation and arbitration proceedings. The broad practice is noted for its expertise in matters involving financial lines, energy and power generation and cyber risk insurance. Practice lead Simon Laird splits his time between the London and Bristol offices. Key contacts in the team include partners Simon Goldring, James Wickes, who is noted for handling warranty and indemnity insurance claims, and Gary Walkling, who focuses on energy insurance matters. Political risk and trade credit insurance expert Naomi Vary, property team lead Victoria Sherratt and energy specialist Leigh Williams, are also names to note. The firm hired Lucy Dyson from DAC Beachcroft LLP.
Practice head(s):
Simon Laird
Other key lawyers:
Simon Goldring; James Wickes; Gary Walkling; Naomi Vary; Leigh Williams; Lucy Dyson
Testimonials
‘A personal service. I’m updated on matters by phone and timescales for reporting provided which are always met. Friendly and helpful staff and clearly very knowledgeable.’
‘A large team with a great mix of knowledgeable partners and smart associates.’
‘A client friendly, responsive team who are a pleasure to work with. They know the insurance market well and deploy that knowledge to inform their advice which is commercial and pragmatic. It has been very important for us to respond to our policyholders in a clear, consistent and timely way and the team at RPC has worked with us closely to ensure that has been possible.’
‘Friendly staff who clearly know their stuff.’
‘Victoria Sherratt is very responsive, pragmatic and commercial and her advice is well structured and clear. She does not sit on the fence and she seeks to understand the challenges that we are faced with as a business. She is passionate about the work that she does.’
Key clients
Navigators
AIG
Arch
Hiscox
Liberty
Probitas
QBE
Axis
AXA XL
Hamilton
Work highlights
- Acting for various reinsurers in a coverage dispute against ABSA Group Limited, obtaining an anti-suit injunction from the English High Court.
Clyde & Co
Clyde & Co LLP fields a strong insurance litigation practice which has a ‘wealth of knowledge’, particularly in property damage claims and covers matters involving professional indemnity, construction and public liability claims. Jointly led by John O’Shea, who provides ‘superb strategic advice’ on property damage claims, and Mark Aitken, who ‘stands out as market leading when it comes to fraud investigation’ related claims, the team acts for insurers, reinsurers and brokers. Other key contacts include ‘master strategist’ Ross Baker, Elizabeth Whittingham, Edwin Millburn and newly promoted partner Hanna Platt.
Practice head(s):
John O’Shea; Mark Aitken
Other key lawyers:
Ross Baker; Elizabeth Whittingham; Edwin Millburn; Hanna Platt; Philip Adamis
Testimonials
‘Ross Baker – a master strategist, Ross is always five steps ahead of the opposition. Ross never loses sight of his brief and ensures the clients are always aware of exactly what steps are being taken and why. I would single out Ross as a fantastic team player.’
‘Mark Aitken is an extremely capable insurance litigator, specialising in complex commercial insurance disputes (especially property and general liability). He has a real flair for investigating a claim and marshalling evidence for insurers. John O’Shea handles large and important insurance disputes as well as subrogated claims. He is cerebral and has an excellent technical acumen, as well as providing superb strategic advice. Hanna Platt is a rising star in the area, with strong tactical instincts and a rigorous commitment to the detail of a case.’
‘BLM’s great strength is listening to their clients’ needs and always remembering their clients’ commercial objectives. So, whilst their legal analysis is second to none, they never let the law dominate the agenda – instead it is seeking to secure what their clients need. They are also highly collaborative and great team players. Clients are brought into the decision-making process and remain there.’
‘Mark Aitken stands out as market leading when it comes to fraud investigation. Some fantastic recent results in cases. He has a wealth of experience in this area. A safe pair of hands. Philip Adamis has for many years provided valuable guidance on matters, his previous experience as a loss adjuster means that he truly understands claims pressures. He is quick to respond to urgent matters and discuss practical steps. He is particular good at navigating contentious issues which result in economic savings.’
‘Elizabeth Whittingham – calm under pressure, universally admired and liked by her team who clearly respond to her and enjoy working with her. Great clarity of thought and insight into client needs. John O’Shea – consummate professional. Clear-headed, able to pinpoint issues and provide crisp and incisive advice within tight timeframes.’
Key clients
AGEAS
Allianz
Amtrust
Aspen
Aviva
AXA
Direct Line Group
Ecclesiastical
Generali
IGI
HDI Global Specialty
LV=
Munich RE
WRB
Zurich
Accelerant
Arch
Covea
Fairmead Insurance (L&G)
Liberty Mutual
Pen U/W
Probitas Syndicate 1472
Carter Perry Bailey LLP
Specialist boutique Carter Perry Bailey LLP acts for insurers, reinsurers and brokers in cross-border disputes involving property, construction, public liability and industrial injury claims. Stephen Carter, who is praised for his ‘great capability to provide deep expertise’ in a wide range of insurance and reinsurance disputes, jointly heads up the practice alongside Bernadette Bailey who handles direct insurance claims and ensures ‘no stone is left unturned’. Helen Tilley has particular expertise in life, accident and health insurance matters.
Practice head(s):
Stephen Carter
Other key lawyers:
Bernadette Bailey; Helen Tilley
Testimonials
‘Stephen Carter – easy and pleasant to work with, very analytical, great capability to provide deep expertise and opinion even in spontaneous discussion. When it comes to international reinsurance, often lawyers have either good grasp of the academic side or grasp of the practical business aspects, but rarely both. To find a lawyer who has command of both is a rare treat. Stephen was immediately on point without needing any further introduction to either practices or the theory and I see him as a thought-leader in his field.’
‘ Helen Tilley is a very capable and experienced specialist in life and health insurance.’
‘Bernadette Bailey is always heavily personally invested in delivering a positive outcome for her clients. Whether seeking to resolve a dispute, or building and presenting a case for trial, no stone is left unturned. Whatever the circumstances Bernadette never loses sight of the bigger picture and seeks to achieve a commercial result that best meets the objectives of the client.’
‘Stephen Carter – excellent professional, but at the same time kind. Bernadette Bailey, aggressive and determined but always very conscious when to start negotiating an out of court solution. A very rare but useful mix.’
Key clients
Allianz IARD
Community Reinsurance Corporation
HDI Gerling Insurance
Partner Re
Lime Street Insurance Brokers
Maas Lloyd Schadeverzekerings/ Hampden Insurance NV
NASCO
NDI Insurance & Reinsurance Brokers
Nexus Underwriting
Ulysse Re
Work highlights
- Represented Sande Investments and eight other defendants in a case brought by Equitas in the Commercial Court.
- Defended HDI Gerling in a claim on the grounds of fundamental dishonesty in the making of the claim.
Clausen Miller LLP
Clausen Miller LLP is a boutique firm specialising in insurance and reinsurance litigation, with particular expertise in property insurance disputes. It also frequently handles claims in the construction and engineering sectors. Practice co-leader John Startin has considerable litigation and arbitration experience, while fellow co-leader Jonathan Hall focuses on Latin American claims.
Practice head(s):
John Startin; Jonathan Hall
Testimonials
‘John Startin is a strong defender of his client’s interests. Jonathan Hall has immense strength in analysis of detail and ensuring his clients are looked after.’
‘Clausen Miller offer sound advice on complex legal insurance matters. They can see solutions to what might otherwise be expensive and arduous problems and they can explain these solutions in terms that a non-legal person can understand.’
‘John Startin leads a professional, attentive and highly skilled team. Always impressive.’
‘Jonathan Hall is very accessible and always prepared to explain things.’
Cooley (UK) LLP
The contentious insurance team at Cooley (UK) LLP acts for insurers and reinsurers on a range of domestic disputes, as well as international insurance matters, including professional indemnity, D&O, product liability and business interruption claims. Practice head and ‘great negotiator’ Mark Everiss has a broad practice that also includes cyber claims and warranty and indemnity disputes. David Kendall continues to provide ‘pragmatic advice’ to clients as a senior counsel, while Richard Hopley and Sam Tacey are key contacts in the team.
Practice head(s):
Mark Everiss
Other key lawyers:
David Kendall; Richard Hopley; Sam Tacey
Testimonials
‘Mark Everiss is technically very skilled, fast in responses and a great negotiator.’
‘Cooley’s insurance and reinsurance litigation team has swooped in to provide advice and guidance on a number of international matters for us. We bring them the weird and wonderful Lloyds of London disputes and they put together the right team even if it means pulling from different international offices. They are a real tool in the arsenal.’
‘David Kendall – responsive and provides pragmatic advice.’
‘The team is highly skilled and knowledgeable about the workings of the Lloyds market.’
Key clients
Lloyd’s Market Association (the LMA)
MMI
Ambridge Partners
The Mediterranean Insurance & Reinsurance Company Limited
Equitas
Hiscox
FM Global
OTM Insurance Specialists LLC
Work highlights
- Advised Municipal Mutual Insurance Limited (MMI) on its ability to recover UK EL claims on its reinsurance programme covering the period 1950-1990 and the way in which it should seek to recover these claims.
- Acting for Texas broker OTM, applied to the High Court for an emergency injunction to restrain UK broker Basil Fry for acting in breach of a restrictive covenant.
DWF
The London market and global risk team at DWF is noted for its expertise in reinsurance matters and handles cases across the Middle East, Asia and Africa, as well as the US and Europe. The group handles matters involving property, energy, product liability and business interruption claims. Practice head David Abbott has experience in reinsurance matters, while John Groome handles casualty and property claims and Jonathan Moss acts for clients in commodities and shipping litigation. Antony Woodhouse is noted for his work in the Bermuda market and Iftikhar Ali handles construction and energy claims. Former global head of insurance at Ince, Kiran Soar, is a key contact in the team.
Practice head(s):
David Abbott
Other key lawyers:
John Groome; Jonathan Moss; Antony Woodhouse; Iftikhar Ali; Kiran Soar
Testimonials
‘Jonathan Moss is a world class shipping insurance lawyer. He has expertise in both wet and dry shipping matters – as well as commodities. His team has detailed knowledge of issues faced in a wide range of jurisdictions. One unique feature is that Jonathan, and certain members of his team, have physically been on-the-ground in both the Asian and African continent. He/they really know what’s going on where we operate. As well as having a dedicated team, Jonathan’s firm has huge resources and are able to upscale at a moment’s notice to deliver results.’
‘The European links within the DWF organisation are a strong asset to the team, as is the association with DWF Claims who offer solutions that dovetail with the legal services. In comparison with other similar organisations, work product is received in a prompt and timely manner, budgets are closely managed, and reports are clear and well structured.’
‘Excellent knowledge of the insurance industry.’
‘Jonathan Moss is a standout lawyer, with extensive experience and an impressive practice. He has a commercial approach, mixed with in-depth knowledge of the law. Jonathan’s language skills are of huge value with cases arising from the African continent. I would describe Jonathan as a go-to shipping lawyer.’
‘John Groome has been a long term contact within the organisation, his pragmatic and practical approach to resolving disputes is excellent. His ability to refer appropriate matters to a team of lawyers with multijurisdictional abilities is of particular benefit.’
‘Antony Woodhouse is a leading individual.’
Key clients
Hamilton Group
Canopius
AXA XL
QIC
Talbot Underwriting
RSA
Chubb
Markel
Liberty Specialty
Zurich Insurance
Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP
Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP handles a range of insurance litigation matters, from broker negligence claims to property damage disputes. The multidisciplinary practice is led by Simon Brooks, who has more than 25 years' experience in insurance and reinsurance disputes. Principal associate Naz Gauri has a particular focus in financial and professional, property and specialty risks.
Practice head(s):
Simon Brooks
Other key lawyers:
Naz Gauri
Testimonials
‘Excellent technical knowledge specific to UK and EU insurance regulatory issues’
‘Partners and associates very approachable and give pragmatic advice.’
Key clients
Qatar Insurance Company
Aon Limited
AXA XL
CNA Hardy
Sedgwick Loss Adjusters
Glenmont Partners (owners of Port Clarence Energy Ltd)
Lockton Companies LLP
United Insurance Brokers
IF P&C
Gefion
Hogan Lovells International LLP
The practice at Hogan Lovells International LLP handles insurance disputes ranging from property damage claims to business interruption cases, often involving an international element. The team acts for clients in court, as well as in arbitration proceedings. Nick Atkins jointly leads the team alongside Jamie Rogers, who is praised for bringing ‘a combination of considerable intellectual rigour and commercial awareness’ to insurance matters.
Practice head(s):
Nick Atkins; Jamie Rogers
Testimonials
‘Jamie Rogers brings a combination of considerable intellectual rigour and commercial awareness, which, together with responsiveness and timely delivery, makes him our go-to lawyer.’
‘Breadth of expertise, bench strength, responsiveness. A diverse, expert, and business-minded team. Online seminars also very welcome and insightful.’
Key clients
Willis Towers Watson
Society of Lloyd’s
Securis
Work highlights
- Advising Citi in relation to payment protection insurance (PPI) claims for almost 10 years, and now advising on legal developments arising from the end-stage of the allowed period for PPI claims.
Ince
Traditionally recognised for its focus on marine insurance matters, Ince also handles claims involving property damage and business interruption, as well as aviation insurance. Ben Ogden, who acts for insurers and brokers in a range of insurance disputes, jointly heads up the practice alongside marine insurance expert Fionna Gavin. The firm’s former global insurance head Kiran Soar joined DWF in August 2020
Practice head(s):
Ben Ogden; Fionna Gavin
Key clients
Libya Insurance Company
Travelers/BBC
Skuld Marine Agency
IGI
Anglo American
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright handles insurance litigation matters involving financial lines, D&O and professional indemnity claims, as well as growing areas such as property liability and business interruption claims. Practice leader Adrian Mecz acts for international insurers and reinsurers on a range of disputes. Michelle George, who has experience handling product and professional indemnity claims, and Jonathan Ogle are praised as ‘stellar’ lawyers, alongside Ffion Flockhart who is also a key contact in the team. The team welcomed consultant Declan McDaid from the firm’s Hong Kong office, while Charlie Weston-Simons was promoted to partner at the start of 2020.
Practice head(s):
Adrian Mecz
Other key lawyers:
Michelle George; Jonathan Ogle; Ffion Flockhart; Declan McDaid; Susannah Russell
Testimonials
‘Jon Ogle and Michelle George – stellar.’
‘Michelle George and Adrian Mecz are highly experienced insurance coverage lawyers who have always seen and dealt with it before’
‘Michelle George is an excellent insurance coverage lawyer who doesn’t waste time with bad points or advice’
‘Excellent team – very diverse experience – excellent individuals. An excellent service’
‘Charlie Weston-Simons has provided excellent strategic thinking around a complex matter’
‘Susannah Russell managed the large volumes of material involved with great skill and accuracy and kept pace with the many twists and turns of the arbitration’
Key clients
AIG
AmTrust
AXA XL
Barbican
Brit
Canopius
Chubb
Enstar
ERGO
Liberty Specialty Markets
Marsh
MS Amlin
Munich Re
Pembroke/Hamilton
QBE
Resolute
Talbot/AIG
Vitality
WR Berkley
Zurich
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP’s insurance practice acts for major insurers in claims related to business interruption, construction and engineering, as well as D&O disputes. The team also collaborates with the firm’s cyber specialists and frequently handles matters involving data breaches. Colin Read leads the practice, with a focus on contentious regulatory disputes, and has significant expertise supporting insurers on disputes in the High Court. Jonathan Cavill was promoted to partner from May 2021.
Practice head(s):
Colin Read
Other key lawyers:
Rebecca Carrera
Testimonials
‘Colin Read is an exceptionally experienced partner who combines excellent technical knowledge in the field of insurance/reinsurance with an all-too rare ability to think outside the box.’
‘Good presence in the market allied with an ability to conceive innovative solutions to seemingly intractable problems.’
‘Colin Read – absolutely first rate. He’s tremendously clever, knows the industry backwards, he’s an excellent lawyer and a superb team leader.’
‘Colin Read and Rebecca Carrera played a key role – they are well liked by clients for the quality of their service.’
Key clients
Aviva
Argo
Policyholders of PAC/Rothesay
Balfour Beatty
OIC (in Administration) – PWC
Axa
RSA
Partner Re
Work highlights
- Acted for a former director of the Bermuda registered Sturgeon fund, who was successful in their application to terminate an order by liquidators.
- Instructed on a Court of Appeal case involving the Prudential and Rothesay.
Simmons & Simmons
Simmons & Simmons is praised for its ‘excellent collaboration across practice areas’. In particular, the insurance team benefits from the firm’s wider expertise in the financial, asset, life sciences and media sectors to act for insurance clients in these areas. The team has ‘strength in depth’ in construction disputes, and handles product and employers’ liability claims. ‘Shrewd tactician’ James Pollock heads up the practice and focuses on construction and professional liability claims, while Jason Bright is noted for his experience in product liability matters. Felix Zimmermann is also a key contact.
Practice head(s):
James Pollock
Other key lawyers:
Jason Bright; Felix Zimmermann; Emily Monastiriotis
Testimonials
‘Simmons & Simmons have an outstanding team dealing with insurance and insurance-backed litigation. They are astute, commercial, well organised and will not shy away from a fight. Both partners and associates are very high quality.’
‘James Pollock – a big figure in the insurance litigation market. A shrewd tactician with excellent legal judgement.’
‘Felix Zimmerman – very thoughtful and intelligent and great with both insurer clients and insured.’
‘Strength in depth, strong knowledge and skillset across diverse unit.’
‘Excellent collaboration across practice areas, seamless at all times and always present as a team.’
‘Jason Bright is an absolutely outstanding lawyer – extremely bright, very hardworking, brilliant with clients in whom he inspires confidence, a superb manager of a team, and very commercial. An absolute pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Argenta Syndicate Management Limited
London Excess Market
Markel
Munich Re
Work highlights
- Acting for Argenta Syndicate Management Limited (ASML) in both the High Court and on appeal before the Supreme Court during the business interruption insurance test case proceedings brought by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Advising a number of excess market insurers (across several layers) in connection with a first-party claim for mitigation costs, arising out of the construction of the Hague Cultural Centre.
Browne Jacobson LLP
In addition to its strong professional indemnity and financial services sector expertise, Browne Jacobson LLP is also well-placed to handle insurance matters involving product liability, D&O, coverholder issues and reinsurance work. Colin Peck, who has considerable expertise in property damage and business interruption claims, jointly heads up the practice alongside Francis Mackie, who has over 30 years’ experience in this sector.
Practice head(s):
Colin Peck; Francis Mackie
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Newbold; Ed Anderson; Derek Bambury; Jeremy Irving ; Lisa Henty, Jude Cummings; Zoe Bowden
Testimonials
‘Colin Peck – he has terrific attention to detail. He picks up points which most would miss and deploys them to great effect. He’s extremely committed to his clients and gets great results.’
‘An extremely client focused and committed team with deep knowledge of its clients.’
‘We use Francis Mackie who is always available, client focused and gives thorough, appropriate advice.’
‘Specialised knowledge in niche field of work.’
‘Jonathan Newbold – technically excellent, sound judgement and a pleasure to work with’
‘Jude Cummings – very able, and making excellent progress’
Key clients
Hiscox Dedicated Corporate Syndicate 33
Starr Managing Agents Ltd (trading as Syndicate CVS 1919)
Chaucer Plc
Work highlights
- Advised London market insurers on an anti-suit injunction to enforce UK arbitration provisions
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP
The team at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP has experience acting for insurers in disputes involving property, marine and D&O claims, and also frequently handles cross-border matters. Joint practice heads Anthony Lennox and Jonathan Sacher have decades of experience in insurance litigation, while Kelly Jones handles a range of contentious insurance matters.
Practice head(s):
Anthony Lennox; Jonathan Sacher
Other key lawyers:
Kelly Jones
Mayer Brown International LLP
Mayer Brown International LLP’s insurance group benefits from the firm’s global footprint when it comes to handling international insurance disputes for insurers and reinsurers. James Whitaker handles D&O disputes, as well as professional liability claims. Other key contacts in the team include D&O specialist Jim Oulton, Tim Shepherd and counsel Mike Newham. Former London insurance head William Glassey left for Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in mid-2021.
Practice head(s):
Jim Oulton
Other key lawyers:
James Whittaker; Tim Shepherd; Mike Newham
Testimonials
‘What makes Mayer Brown unique is that I know I could work with anyone in the Insurance team with the full knowledge that I’d be in good hands. The quality of work from the team is always exceptional.’
‘Working with Mike Newham is incredibly easy. He is thorough and detailed with his work but also explains complicated issues in ways that are easy to understand. Mike is also great with thinking strategically, which is essential on the insurer side when handling difficult matters. I particularly value that Mike is genuinely happy to discuss claims whenever necessary and it is always a pleasure to work with him.’
Key clients
Zurich
Resolute Management Services
Liberty Mutual Insurance Europe
Novae
QBE
Chaucer
Chubb Insurance Company of Europe
Axa XL
Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK)
HCC
Shoosmiths LLP
Shoosmiths LLP’s national insurance practice acts for insurers in a range of disputes including D&O, property damage, cyber insurance and business interruption claims. Based in London, Susie Wakefield heads up the practice and has experience in multijurisdictional insurance coverage disputes, while Philip Tansley has a particular focus on cyber and product liability litigation . Reading-based Paul Eccles and Manchester-based Richard Marshall are also key contacts in the team.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Philip Tansley; Paul Eccles; Richard Marshall
Testimonials
‘Very experienced firm that punches well above its weight. An innovative, smart and very capable team in this area. Quick to identify the key issues in a claim in litigation but also commercially very savvy. Highly responsive. Will always run the extra mile for a client.’
‘Great teamwork. Very personable and client focused, but sharp as flint and ferociously competitive when the need arises. Not a team you want opposing you.’
Key clients
Chubb Europe
Enstar/Starstone Underwriting
Zurich Plc
SCOR SE
AmTrust Europe Limited
Bombardier Transportation (UK) Limited and its captive insurer
Comp Re/Bothnia
Nexus Underwriting
MD Insurance Services Limited
Navigators & General
HDI Gerling
Slaughter and May
Slaughter and May is praised for its ‘excellent insight into the industry sectors of its client base’ including insurers, with the team handling complex and unique insurance matters. The team, which is led by Richard Swallow, includes ‘stellar insurance and reinsurance partner’ Efstathios Michael, who acts for insurers, reinsurers and brokers.
Practice head(s):
Richard Swallow (disputes); Efstathios Michael
Other key lawyers:
Damian Taylor; Ewan Brown; Nupur Upadhyay
Testimonials
‘Efstathios Michael is a stellar insurance and reinsurance partner; he stands out for his combination of great commercial instinct, intellect and fantastic humour. An absolute gem of an insurance lawyer.’
‘The team shows an excellent insight into the industry sectors of its client base which enable them to deliver pragmatic advice and inspire confidence.’
‘Efstathios Michael is always quick to identify the key issues in a dispute and the range of options available to clients, which reflect a keen understanding of his clients’ strategic priorities. Efstathios is sharp and inspires a great sense of confidence. Efstathios is a powerful orator, who is persuasive, yet pragmatic.’
‘They take a practical, commercial approach to the resolution of insurance and reinsurance disputes, but do so while attempting to ensure that the client is in the best possible position to win should the matter fight in arbitration, court or any other forum. They go above and beyond to ensure that the optimum result is achieved. While being rigorous in their approach, they always act in a courteous, receptive and friendly manner which creates a very positive atmosphere. This is conducive to getting the best result for the client.’
Key clients
Zurich Insurance plc
Marsh Limited
Aviva
Work highlights
- Advising Zurich on high profile business interruption insurance FCA test case.
- Advising Marsh in relation to matters arising out of a specialist insurance policy following the explosion of a satellite.
- Advising Aviva and Direct Line in connection with potential business interruption claims arising as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stephenson Harwood
'Professionally led by Alex Davis’, Stephenson Harwood's insurance practice focuses on marine insurance and acts for many major insurers in this space. The team is noted for handling matters ranging from shipment and total losses to cargo and commodity fraud cases. Joe O’Keeffe has particular expertise in war risks and detainment matters, as well as fraudulent claims, while Simon Moore focuses on both energy and marine insurance work. Senior associate Richard Hugg is also a key contact in the team.
Practice head(s):
Alex Davis
Other key lawyers:
Joe O’Keeffe; Simon Moore; Richard Hugg
Testimonials
‘The team is professionally led by Alex Davis. He is a big guy with a big reputation and has a thorough knowledge of marine insurance law. He leads by example and ensures his team maintain the high standards that he has implemented.’
‘They are approachable , will tell you straight whether you have a viable case. They do not take on a case if they believe you haven’t a chance of success.’
‘Excellent knowledge & advice combined with a fantastic commercial understanding. The whole team are brilliant’
Key clients
Royal & Sun Alliance plc
Brit Insurance
Talbot Underwriting
Hiscox Insurance
Beazley Group
Liberty Mutual Insurance
AXA Corporate Solutions Assurance
Torus
Navigators Insurance Company Limited
India International Insurance
Canopius
Lancashire Insurance Group (UK) Ltd
Antares Managing Agency Limited
The Channel Syndicate
Atrium Underwriters Limited
Work highlights
- Advising war insurers in respect of $20m claim arising following the detention of a fully laden bulk carrier in Indonesia following a major casualty involving damage to subsea pipeline.
- Acting for war risks underwriters in respect of a claim for $77m (the insured value of the Vessel, CV Stealth).
Keoghs LLP
The London insurance team at Keoghs LLP collaborates with the firm’s offices around the UK to act for its clients in matters involving property damage, D&O and professional indemnity claims. ‘Standout partner’ Richard Houseago, who specialises in construction and engineering-related claims, jointly heads up the practice alongside Ruth Lawrence.
Practice head(s):
Richard Houseago; Ruth Lawrence
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Rogers; Andrew Schütte
Testimonials
‘A solid insurance and reinsurance practice, with good knowledge of the market.’
‘Richard Houseago is a standout partner, by any scale of consideration. His ability stands alongside any partner of similar ilk in a city law firm. He is well known in the market for giving sensible, sound, objective advice (the good news and the bad news). He is highly recommendable. Matt Rogers has a very fine following for understandable reasons – he is just very good. He thinks about his work in a methodical intelligent way, getting to the right answers very quickly.’
‘Andrew Schutte is excellent. He knows the market extremely well and has good litigation antennae. He works hard and strives for the best outcome for his clients. Highly recommended.’
‘Richard Houseago has one of the best legal minds in the business. Incisive with an eye for detail, he is renowned for his mastery of an argument and can be relied on whether it is on a complex coverage issue or a recovery action.’
Key clients
Aviva
AXA
Direct Line Group
Zurich
Argo Global
ECIC/Markel
Keystone Law
Keystone Law is noted for its strength in coverage disputes and acts for insurers and reinsurers across construction, property and personal injury insurance policies. Experienced insurance litigator Jason Kallis and ‘eminent practitioner’ James Crabtree are key contacts in the team, along with product liability specialist Antony Colman and Elaine Chan, who joined from Ward Hadaway LLP in October 2020.
Other key lawyers:
Jason Kallis; James Crabtree; Antony Colman; Elaine Chan
Testimonials
‘Pragmatic, determined and knowledgeable.’
‘James Crabtree is an eminent practitioner in insurance and reinsurance law with extensive experience and deep knowledge of the market. He is extremely kind, collaborative and a pleasure to work with.’
‘The practice is absolutely “ahead of the curve” with flexible, technology-enabled ways of working and meeting client needs. As an outsider, I can see that Keystone Law give unusually high levels of support to their lawyers which enables then to concentrate on the client and the job in hand. They also have a very open and diligent way of dealing with issues and challenges.’
‘Jason Kallis – attention to detail and ability to convey complex issues to lay clients is exceptional.’
‘Antony Colman is a hugely experienced litigator. His attention to detail is second to none. His tactical nous is superb. He knows the law backwards. And it is unsurprising that he has built up a loyal client base. I work with him regularly and know and appreciate his considerable talents. And he gets incredible results for his clientele. He’s absolutely at the top of his game.’
Key clients
Electrium Sales Limited
HDI Global SE
Allianz Global CS
Barbican Managing Agency Limited
UNIQA Österreich Versicherungen AG
Samsung SDI
WR Berkley (Offshore)
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. Ltd
Yamaha Motor Europe NV, Branch UK
Argo Global Insurers
Bosch (t/a BSH Home Appliances)
Work highlights
- Advising Samsung and their Captive in relation to fires and related damage caused by misuse or defective batteries manufactured by the insured entity, and pursuing distributors and retailers for breach of distribution agreements made between Samsung and its distributors.
- Acting for a private ambulance service firm, Argo Global Limited, being pursued in the Royal Courts of Justice.
Mills & Reeve LLP
Mills & Reeve LLP’s insurance sector group, led by Neil Davis, acts for insurers in political risk, construction and property claims, as well as cyber insurance matters. Other key contacts in the team include head of specialty Andrew Tobin, Michael Mitchell, who leads the property insurance team and Adrian Luto, who heads up the team advising surety clients.
Practice head(s):
Neil Davis; Andrew Tobin; Michael Mitchell; Adrian Luto
Testimonials
‘Mills & Reeve’s insurance practice has come into its own in the last few years. Having had a strong name in the PI market it has been rounded out with notable work in the fields of Cyber, Political Risk & Credit, and coverage matters. Its response to the home-working response to the pandemic was particularly effective. The launch of CoverTalk, bite-size virtual lectures on insurance fundamentals and coverage issues, was inspired. An imaginative initiative that speaks to the energy in the practice.’
‘Andrew Tobin is an outstanding member of the team, having made a noticeable impact on the department in a relatively short period of time. His warm, affable manner is matched by an astute, independent mind which combines legal insight with commercial good sense. One feels that the work is given his close personal attention, whilst sensible use is made of the wider team as needed. The practice has breadth, but Andrew’s work in the political risk & credit spheres has been of particular note; he also has a deep knowledge of the political violence market which he can bring to bear.’
Key clients
Beazley
SCOR / The Channel Syndicate
Munich Re
Canopius
Brit
Axis
HCC International Insurance Company Plc
American International Group Limited
Liberty Mutual Insurance Europe SE
American International Group UK Limited
CNA Hardy
QBE
Weightmans LLP
The London insurance practice at Weightmans LLP’s collaborates with the firm’s wider network of UK offices to act for clients in UK and cross-border insurance litigation matters, involving construction, energy, D&O and cyber insurance claims. Liverpool-based Rob Williams heads up the firm’s national insurance practice, while London-based Edward Lewis leads the specialty and financial lines practice. Ling Ong focuses on coverage issues and Simon Durkin handles property and casualty work.
Practice head(s):
Rob Williams; Edward Lewis
Other key lawyers:
Ling Ong; Simon Durkin
Testimonials
‘Particularly effective with reinsurance policy coverage reviews’
‘Very strong reinsurance team’
‘Ling Ong is a standout partner. She understands that a timely response is essential, and always delivers without compromising on the quality of her work’
Key clients
Zurich
AIG
Tokio Marine HCC
CFC Underwriting
Starstone SE
HDI Global Specialty
Sirius International Insurance Corporation
Argo Global
Markel International
Markel UK
Hamilton
Contessa