Praised as ‘incredibly talented and knowledgeable’, the product liability and mass torts practice at Latham & Watkins LLP is well known in the market for representing and defending high-profile clients in complex, high-stakes litigation, handling mandates such as personal injury, tortious interference, consumer class actions, and public nuisance cases. The practice’s clients span a wide array of industries, including pharma, tech, and software companies, medical devices, consumer products, and environmental matters. Recent significant cases for the firm include securing a major victory for Apple in a class action with the potential for multi-billion dollars in damages, representing Clorox in a pioneering public nuisance case involving 10 major companies, and successfully defending Philip Morris in a global litigation which centered on billion-dollar recoupment claims. Boston based Gwyn Williams leads the practice, handling multi-defendant and class action cases in state, federal, and appellate courts. Her expertise spans retail products, pharmaceuticals, and financial services. Williams also advises on risk management, product warnings, and corporate liability assessments. Washington DC based Christine G. Rolph, the former global co-chair of the practice, specializes in representing clients in a diverse range of matters, including environmental and chemical litigation and defending major casino corporations. Mary Rose Alexander , managing partner of the Chicago office, specializes in multi-plaintiff and multi-state litigation, often representing Fortune 500 companies particularly in the energy and chemical sectors.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Insurance practice at Latham differentiates themselves from other firms given their deep and vast knowledge of not only the insurance policies terms and conditions but with their ability to be forward thinkers to not just accept what is industry standard, but to challenge brokers and underwriters to think more creatively. Their ability to not just accept average results continues to separate them from the rest. ’
‘Drew Gardiner is one of the brightest and most engaging insurance partners I have worked with. His experience coupled with his willingness to engage in dialogue and research on untested topics is fantastic. He continues to be a great resource to both his partners and their clients.
- Brook Roberts has an uncanny ability to direct his clients to think past industry norms and ensure they get best-in-class results and products. Not accepting average results and continuing to not accept the status quo is key to differentiation.’
‘Latham & Watkins' Insurance Practice is truly exceptional. Their team of experts consistently delivers top-notch legal services, demonstrating an unparalleled depth of knowledge and expertise in the insurance sector. They are adept at navigating complex regulatory landscapes and providing innovative solutions tailored to their clients' unique needs.
- What sets Latham & Watkins apart is their unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. They are incredibly responsive, always available to address concerns and provide timely, strategic advice. Their ability to anticipate potential challenges and proactively address them is commendable.
- Moreover, the firm's collaborative approach ensures that clients benefit from the collective expertise of their entire team. This synergy results in comprehensive, well-rounded legal strategies that are both effective and efficient.
- In summary, Latham & Watkins' Insurance Practice is a leader in the field, offering unparalleled service, expertise, and client dedication. They are a trusted partner for any organization seeking top-tier legal counsel in the insurance industry.’
‘The team at Latham & Watkins' Insurance Practice is composed of highly knowledgeable and skilled professionals, each bringing a wealth of expertise to the table. Their deep understanding of the insurance industry and legal landscape makes them a standout choice for clients.’
Key clients
- Abbott Laboratories
- Allergan
- Apple
- Camping World
- Clorox
- Jonny Pops
- LG Energy Solution, LG Chem, and LG Energy Solution Michigan
- NCAA
- Philip Morris International, Inc.
- The Shade Store
Work highlights
- The firm is representing two Abbott Laboratories’ subsidiaries in connection with litigation brought against the parties by Cynergy, Inc. alleging tortious interference with a business expectancy. As part of those efforts, the firm successfully removed the case to Missouri Western District Court. Thereafter, the firm filed counterclaims against Cynergy and is continuing to litigate the claims. The motion for summary judgment is currently pending.
Lawyers
Hall of fame
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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Shlomo Fellig
Practice head
Gwyn Williams
Other key lawyers
Mary Rose Alexander; Christine Rolph