Led by Jessica LaLonde in San Francisco, Daniel B Heidtke in Austin, and Richard L. Cohen and Wendy M. Simkulak in Philadelphia, Duane Morris LLP’s insurance practice handles coverage litigation cases spanning asbestos claims, talc lawsuits, and pollution claims. LaLonde is an experienced trial lawyer with strong knowledge of insurance coverage litigation, while Heidtke handles bad faith litigation. Simkulak has expertise advising clients on D&O liability. Another significant member of the team is San Francisco-based Philip R. Matthews, who acts on asbestos and PFAS claims.
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Key clients
- Certain Lloyd’s Underwriters and London Insurance Companies and CNA Insurers
- The Continental Insurance Company
- Republic Indemnity Co. of America
- Great American Insurance Group
- Berkley Assurance Co
- American Centennial Ins. Co, Continental Casualty Co.
- AXA XL
Work highlights
Represented defendant Nautilus on appeal and obtained affirmance on appeal of judgment after a court trial by USDC for the District of Nevada.
Represented defendant Continental Insurance Co., obtaining summary judgment of a $1.78 billion insurance coverage claim by Sempra and Southern California Gas.
Represented GEICO as defendants in the trial and appellate court, obtaining affirmance on appeal of a District Court grant of a summary judgment for GEICO dismissing a class action of all insured California drivers.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Practice head
Jessica LaLonde; Daniel B Heidtke; Richard L. Cohen; Wendy M. Simkulak
Other key lawyers
Philip R. Matthews