Co-led by Margaret Warner and Ryan Smethurst, the team at McDermott Will & Schulte is experienced in handling coverage litigation in cases relating to sexual abuse allegations, asbestos liabilities, toxic chemicals, and product liability. Based in Washington DC, Warner is known for advising on coverage litigation concerning environmental issues, while Smethurst regularly acts for insurers in claims disputes. Also based in Washington DC is Alex Spisak, who has experience of handling coverage litigation regarding a wrongful death jury verdict.
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Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They have strong coverage expertise and are trial ready.'
‘Margaret Warner and Ryan Smethurst are both outstanding coverage and trial attorneys. We only use them for our high-exposure cases but when they are on a case, the opponent knows they are in for a battle.’
‘McDermott has excellent trial lawyers that understand insurance coverage disputes in mass tort bankruptcies.’
‘Ryan Smethurst leads the firm's insurance coverage litigation and has developed expertise in mass tort cases that end up in bankruptcy.’
‘The team is led by Margaret Warner, who is smart and client focused. Additionally, the team at McDermott is broad enough that I feel comfortable with their other practice areas when a different need arises.’
Key clients
- Allianz Global Risks US Insurance Company
- Allianz Underwriters Insurance Company
- Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company
- Interstate Fire & Casualty Corporation
- Jefferson Insurance Company
- National Surety Corporation
- OKA, The Carbon Insurance Company
- Amwins Connect Administrators, Inc.
- National Basketball Association
- National Hockey League
Work highlights
Representing Allianz Insurers in appellate and coverage litigation arising from the Boy Scouts of America’s Chapter 11 plan.
Representing Allianz in a U.S. plaintiff-side insurance contribution action, with over US$250 million at issue, arising from Daimler Truck North America’s nationwide asbestos and environmental liabilities.
Represented Interstate in a nine-figure insurance coverage dispute arising from the failed restart of the Limetree refinery on St. Croix, which caused widespread environmental contamination and class claims for property damage and bodily injury.
Lawyers
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Leading partners
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Practice head
Margaret Warner; Ryan Smethurst
Other key lawyers
Alex Spisak