Praised for being ‘reliable, strategic, and always one step ahead’, the insurance practice at DLA Piper LLP (US) is co-led by Joseph Finnerty III and Michael Murphy, who are both based in New York. Finnerty is known for representing leading insurance companies in litigation, while Murphy is an experienced litigator who advises clients in litigation relating to asbestos claims. Rob Hoffman is a key member of the team based in Dallas, who expertly acts on reps and warranties disputes and COVID-19 litigation concerning alleged commercial property loss. In Baltimore, Amor Neill Thupari has experience representing insurers in coverage litigation concerning fires, as well as handling bad faith claims. In January 2025, Aidan M McCormack departed the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘A vast organisation with every conceivable specialty that nonetheless retains the personal touch. The best relationships and support I have received from any US law firm. Exceptional eyes for detail and commercial resolution. Reliable, strategic, and always one step ahead in the insurance landscape.’

  • ‘Amor Neill Thupari and Jon Kinney are both recent partners who more than justify that promotion. Always knowledgeable and always conscious of their client's time. Michael Murphy is a stalwart defender and a clear choice for any "bet the house" litigation. Their guidance brings clarity to even the most complex insurance challenges. All those named are professional, responsive, and deeply knowledgeable about both insurance law and market practice.’

Key clients

  • Mosaic Americas Insurance Services LLC
  • Ryan Transactional
  • QBE North America
  • VALE Insurance Partners
  • AXA XL
  • Liberty Mutual Group Inc.
  • Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance
  • Chubb Group of Insurance Companies
  • Swiss Reinsurance Company
  • Tokio Marine Kiln

Work highlights

Represents Aviva in pending litigation matters at varying stages of proceedings, involving hundreds of millions of US dollars in dispute.
Representing the Automobile Club of Southern California (ACSC) in lawsuits filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court stemming from the 2025 California wildfires.
Representing property insurers in a briefing and arguing a case of first impression before the Kansas Court of Appeals, and later the Supreme Court of Kansas, regarding the meaning of “direct physical loss or damage” in the context of COVID-19.
Practice head

Joseph Finnerty III; Michael Murphy

Other key lawyers

Rob Hoffman; Amor Neill Thupari; Jon Kinney