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The Lawyer
Clydes prepares root and branch review of diversity programme
Clyde & Co is preparing to overhaul its diversity and inclusion (D&I) programme in an effort to improve gender and social representation in its partnership.
Slater & Gordon's shares plummet 52 per cent following Autumn Statement
Personal injury heavyweight Slater & Gordon saw its share price drop 52 per cent overnight after the UK Government announced a shake-up in the way road accidents claims are handled.
Horwich Farrelly picks up 43-strong Greenwoods team following Parabis administration
Insurance firm Horwich Farrelly has announced the hire of seven partners and another 36 lawyers and staff from Greenwoods, the defendant insurance arm of Plexus Law.
Full details of Parabis administration emerge as Plexus sale completes
Full details of the pre-packed administration of Parabis Group have been revealed with the business parcelled out to firms including Carpenters Law and Lyons Davidson.
DWF promotes five to partnership in 44-strong round
DWF has announced it has added five lawyers to its partnership during its autumn round, amid 44 promotions in total.
The power of a power of attorney download
The nature of the power of attorney in a security document is different from that in other applications.
Browne Jacobson's Iain Blatherwick: Our lawyers are part of something exciting
The management team at Browne Jacobson has overseen a period of strong growth over the last few years, which culminated in the firm making it into the top 50 firms in The Lawyer UK 200 2015.
HFW set to open three offices in the Middle East
Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW) has confirmed plans to open three offices in the Middle East adding to its existing base in Dubai.
Cost-shifting in treaty cases download
Insurance options should not be limited to claimants who have expressed an interest in third-party funding.
Ince considers ABS status as it looks to rebalance its business
Ince & Co senior partner Jan Heuvels has revealed that the firm is considering adopting an ABS structure in order to offer additional services to its clients.
Keoghs set to buy Plexus post AlixPartners restructuring
Bolton firm Keoghs is on track for an imminent acquisition of Plexus Law, The Lawyer understands.
Private clients
Boyanov & Co provides advice in connection with wealth management, tax planning, business and personal relocation, family law matters and employment law advice.
Financial markets
Boyanov & Co advises local and international financial institutions on various finance transactions, such as bank and non-bank lending, debt restructurings, note issuance and listings, factoring, regulatory matters, UCITS, AIFM, etc..
Insurance premium tax hike: advise clients now download
Look out for clients recovering premiums on pre-Jackson polices
Ince downsizes London office with move to Aldgate Tower
Shipping and insurance specialist Ince & Co has announced it is moving its London office to Aldgate Tower after signing a 17-year lease.
How after-the-event cover can give fee-earners an edge download
…and help protect against professional negligence.
Italy: the 'claims made' clause in insurance contracts download
In the two kinds of insurance ('loss occurrence' and 'claims made'), the risk linked to the premium is different.
Ince & Co in play as it approaches Watson Farley for tie-up
Insurance firm Ince & Co is discreetly sounding out firms for a possible tie-up, The Lawyer understands.
RPC hires Worldpay corporate GC
RPC has hired Worldpay corporate general counsel Matthew Griffith as a partner in its corporate insurance and financial services team.
Run of corporate exits continue at Clydes as Tromans jumps ship to Willkie Farr
Clyde & Co has lost its third corporate partner in four months, as Andy Tromans leaves the firm's insurance group for Willkie Farr & Gallagher.
QM Costs works with Shoosmiths to host free civil costs and practice seminar
QM Costs, in conjunction with national law firm Shoosmiths and Ben Williams QC, is hosting a free seminar on costs exposure for insurers and businesses.
Darkness and light: professional indemnity insurance and cyber crime
The threat of cyber crime and big law firms' increasingly global ambitions will shape PII in the next five years.
Aggregation authority: What is 'one claim' under solicitors' PI policy? weblink
The High Court has provided the first authority on the meaning of the aggregation clause in the SRA's minimum terms and conditions for solicitors' PI insurance. Walker Morris' Andrew Bennett explains.
A&O and Freshfields win top role on Hastings IPO
Allen & Overy (A&O) and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer are advising on insurance provider Hastings' intention to float on the London Stock Exchange (LSE).
Clyde & Co to merge with Scotland's Simpson & Marwick creating £420m insurance powerhouse
Clyde & Co will merge with Scottish firm Simpson & Marwick on 1 October, creating a £420m firm.
Prudential Financial appoints US legal head Harris to global GC role
Life insurance giant Prudential Financial has promoted US general counsel Timothy Harris to the global top job following the retirement of general counsel Susan Blount.
DAC Beachcroft opens in Miami to strengthen Latin American offering
DAC Beachcroft has announced it is opening an office in Miami to complement its existing offices across Latin America.
Standard Life hires RBS deputy general counsel as legal chief
Standard Life has hired Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) deputy general counsel Rushad Abadan as its new legal chief, replacing interim head David Burns.
Linklaters, Skadden and Sullivan line up for Mitsui's £3.5bn offer for insurer Amlin
Linklaters, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom and Sullivan & Cromwell have all advised on Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance's (MSI) £3.5bn offer for insurance company Amlin.
D&O cover, and the most important card in Monopoly download
The 'Get out of jail free' card is not dissimilar to a good directors' and officers' insurance policy.
CCI of India penalises four public sector insurance companies for cartelisation download
The Competition Commission of India found a cartel among certain public sector insurance companies in India.
Aspire Law and Buckingham hospital provide rehab to clients
ABS Aspire Law has entered into a joint venture agreement with the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital to create a service where clients with severe spinal injuries can receive rehabilitation treatment.
Keoghs in discussions over Plexus tie-up
Keoghs Solicitors is rumoured to be in talks to acquire defendant insurance firm Plexus Law in a deal which would create a £145m turnover firm.
Freshfields and Slaughters work with RSA and Zurich as takeover deadline looms
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and Slaughter and May have bagged top roles on the possible £5bn sale of RSA to Zurich Insurance, with the latter's deadline to make a firm offer set to close today.
BLP turns to Clyde & Co for corporate insurance hire
Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) has hired corporate insurance partner Geraldine Quirk from Clyde & Co to boost its non-contentious insurance and financial services regulatory team.
Flood Re: fixing the roof or papering over the cracks? download
The Flood Re scheme creates a not-for-profit flood reinsurance fund managed by the insurance industry.
BLM hires sexual abuse specialist from DAC Beachcroft
BLM has boosted its public sector group through the hiring of ex-DAC Beachcroft (DACB) abuse claims expert Paula Jefferson.
Regulatory round-up – August 2015: FCA clarifies GAP insurance rules; decision in Northern Rock case; and more download
Wragges' experts provide their monthly bite size overviews of the major legal and regulatory developments and news for the consumer, asset and automotive finance sectors.
Prudential set to announce new legal panel
Financial services giant Prudential is currently in the process of reviewing its legal panel with the line-up set to be announced imminently.
WTO formally approves Kazakhstan's membership: the trade implications download
After an almost 20-year wait and lengthy negotiations, Kazakhstan, the largest economy in Central Asia, is finally on the verge of completing its accession to the World Trade Organization.
Zurich instructs four top firms to defend $1bn insurance dispute from HSF client SBM
An armada of law firms has been drafted in to defend an energy insurance coverage dispute brought by Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) client SBM Offshore.
Eng vs Aus: don't let property dreams turn to Ashes download
Sporting loyalties aside – if, like many others, you are considering investing your money in Australia rather than in England, here are a few things to keep in mind.
International reinsurance contracts: a Swiss perspective download
As reinsurance disputes are frequently brought before arbitral tribunals, there is virtually no jurisprudence by Swiss courts in reinsurance matters
After the storm: professional indemnity
Our panel of experts discuss demand for cross-border protection plans, the rise in case complexity and implications of the new SRA discussion paper.
Ince & Co sees turnover fall 8 per cent during period of challenging conditions
Ince & Co has announced that its turnover has fallen by 8 per cent, from £86.7m to £79.4m last year.
Haase, Nadia
Endedijk, Gerard
Managing partner
Irwin Mitchell and DAC Beachcroft among firms cashing in on NHS negligence cases
Irwin Mitchell and DAC Beachcroft are among the top firms cashing in on NHS negligence cases as damages and costs paid to patients who have suffered harm continue to rise.
Offshore: Bermuda comes through the financial crisis stronger
Walkers is set to launch in Bermuda, hot on the heels of Canada's Bennett Jones – a major development for an island whose main players all started life there. What is the allure?
David Moore set to join Collas Crill's Guernsey corporate and commercial team
Collas Crill has strengthened its Guernsey corporate and commercial team with the appointment of experienced consultant David Moore.
Regulatory round-up: asset protection cover; non-geographic phone numbers; and more download
Also: reporting unenforceable credit agreements; ADR directive; and more.
Most Highly Regarded Individual award won by Prager Dreifus lawyer
Christoph Graber named as one of the Most Highly Regarded Individuals in Insurance & Reinsurance.
Gowlings insurance partner leaves for Clydes following merger announcement
Clyde & Co has announced that insurance partner Heather Gray has joined the firm's Toronto office from Canadian firm Gowlings.
Shipping e-briefing: who owns the cargo?; mitigating losses; collisions; and more weblink
Also: be specific in tripartite agreements; the right to rely on refund guarantees; and more.
US and offshore firms win top roles as Exor tries to win PartnerRe from Axis
Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison is advising investment company Exor as it announces new terms for its $6.8bn offer for Davis Polk client and reinsurer PartnerRe.
Osborne's phased introduction of insurance premium tax hike will reassure industry, says Eversheds
'Insurers will welcome phased approach to hiking insurance premium tax'
Life as a surety underwriter download
Ainhoa Alzola discusses what life is like as a surety underwriter, and more importantly, what a surety underwriter looks for when writing a bond.
DAC Beachcroft unveils new leadership team as Pollitt and Clegg secure mandates
DAC Beachcroft has named its new leadership team with insurance head David Pollitt and Leeds senior partner Virginia Clegg taking over as managing and senior partner respectively.
Stewarts Law secures £5m settlement for client in claim against Scott Allen's insurers
Stewarts Law has secured £5m in damages for its client MH who suffered serious head injuries which resulted in physical and mental difficulties following a road traffic accident.
Sullivan and Wachtell take the lead on Ace's $28.3bn purchase of insurer Chubb
Sullivan & Cromwell and Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz have advised on insurance company Ace's $28.3bn (£18.1bn) acquisition of rival Chubb Corporation.
Gibson Dunn and Weil take the lead on Towers Watson and Willis $18bn merger
Gibson Dunn & Crutcher and Weil Gotshal & Manges have won top roles on the merger of advisory and broking companies Towers Watson and Willis Group for $18bn (£11.45bn).
Kazakhstan introduces changes to obligatory insurance and Islamic finance laws download
Kazakhstan modifies insurance and Islamic finance rules.
Stewarts adds five instructions as Kennedys client Alton Towers pays out to crash victims
Alton Towers owner Merlin Entertainments has begun making interim compensation payments to victims injured in the rollercoaster crash on 2 June under the advice of Kennedys.
Insurers and outsourcing: responding to regulatory concerns download
Improvements are needed in due diligence and management
Disclosure of insurance details: one step backwards? download
In Senior v Rock UK Adventure Centres & Ors the High Court has ordered a defendant employer to disclose details of its employers' liability insurance policy.
Insurance activities in Luxembourg download
This brochure provides an overview of the insurance activities in Luxembourg.
Reinsurance in Luxembourg download
This brochure provides an overview of reinsurance activities in Luxembourg.
Who can be appointed as principal designer? (You may want to phone a friend...) download
Coe or Ovett? Oasis or Blur? Ketchup or brown sauce? All questions that lead to heated debate. And now there's a new question to add to the list – who should you appoint as your principal designer?
Bermuda catastrophe bond transactions download
With the creation of the Special Purpose Insurer vehicle Bermuda has become the dominant jurisdiction for the majority of all new cat-bond transactions.
Alton Towers turns to Kennedys as rollercoaster crash victims instruct Stewarts Law
Alton Towers owner Merlin Entertainments has turned to Kennedys for advice on the rollercoaster crash that left 16 people injured and the park closed for six days.
DAC Beachcroft insurance and property teams set for 'presidential' election battle
Control of DAC Beachcroft is set to remain in the hands of legacy Beachcroft partners as two teams embark on presidential-style election campaigns, pitting the firm's core insurance practice against its property team.
Hedging longevity risk: pension schemes and Guernsey incorporated cell companies download
Recently a market has developed for hedging longevity risk through the global reinsurance market.
Malice, perversity and politics – construing exclusions in the B Atlantic case weblink
B Atlantic provides a good example of the courts' approach to construing exclusions (with perhaps surprising outcomes) and in assessing whether a foreign court has acted perversely or by reason of political interference.
In-house interview: John Abramson, Travelers
With legislative changes for the insurance market coming this year, John Abramson is educating employees in preparation at industry giant Travelers.
Retail finance round-up: legal, regulatory and industry news download
Financial Ombudsman Service publishes annual review; Wonga aims for reinvention in new payday lending ads; Woolsey v Payne; and more.
Indemnity insurance – are you covered? download
Gateley offers a number of key points that need to be considered when looking to put an indemnity policy in place.
Back to basics: construction insurance – a glossary of terms download
Wragges has prepared this glossary of terms to assist your understanding of some of the more common terminology used in insurance policies that you may come across in the construction industry.
Foran Glennon gains SRA approval for London launch under ABS licence
US firm Foran Glennon Palandech Ponzi & Rudloff has received approval from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to launch a London office operating under an ABS licence.
Learning lessons from asbestos case download
Zurich v IEG – be aware of the difference in approach between Guernsey- and UK-based claims.
PII: reasonably fit for purpose? download
Remember that professional indemnity insurance policies will not cover fitness for purpose obligations.
The myth of the compensation culture download
There is a perception that anyone who has suffered a personal injury can seek compensation, but there needs to be someone at fault.
Hill Dickinson marine quartet split off to launch boutique
A team of Hill Dickinson lawyers, including two partners, have left to start their own firm under the name Waterside Solicitors.
Legal costs insurance in Ireland: de-risking litigation download
Court of Appeal confirms that ATE ('after the event') insurance is part of the Irish legal landscape.
In-house interview: Chris Newby, AIG
He's been AIG EMEA general counsel for only three years, but Chris Newby's already overseen one sponsorship deal, two rebrands and three panel reviews.
Insurance Act 2015: a new landscape? download
Addleshaws presents a visual guide to the new landscape of insurance law under the Insurance Act 2015 Act, focusing on key changes concerning business insurance law.
Kennedys launches in Russia through association with former Clydes lawyer
Kennedys has announced the launch of an office in Moscow, operating under the name Kennedys CIS Advocates.
Exclusive: Redundancy consultation at Plexus Law to see mass exits by legal and support staff
Plexus Law has launched its second large scale redundancy consultation in under a year, which is expected to affect the jobs of 80 legal secretaries and support staff and see up to 10 lawyers leaving the firm in May.
AIG reviews UK roster and picks 64 firms for first European panel
Insurance giant AIG has completed a review of its UK panel while at the same time establishing a European panel of 64 firms.
Security bosses don't trust cyber insurance products download
Mass scepticism greets insurance products intended to protect businesses from cyber-attacks.
Welcome clarification on joint names and subrogation download
Gard Marine v China: if a contract requires insurance the court will assume the parties have agreed to look to their insurers for indemnification.
A good claim can now be invalidated if the insurer is lied to weblink
The Court of Appeal has established a 'bright line rule' that an assured who tells a lie will forfeit the claim.
Plane crash compensation is 'imperfect redress' for families download
Airlines are responsible for up to $160k per person. In bigger claims, the airline can defend itself. Money is cold comfort for families, but at least it's an acknowledgement, says James Healy-Pratt.
Foreign investment in the Indian insurance sector – the mega-reform download
Foreign investment limit in the insurance sector has been increased from 26 per cent to 49 per cent, and other changes.
SARAH to the rescue – the Social Action, Responsibility & Heroism Act download
The aim of the act is to stop people being deterred from participating in socially useful activities due to worries about liability (although one peer said its text 'would barely muster a pass in GCSE legal studies').
US: user-based insurance – more regulation on the way download
The National Association of Insurance Commissioner's Center for Insurance Policy and Research (CIPR) recently released the findings of its study on telematics-supported usage-based insurance.
Insurance litigation: negative declarations and the meaning of 'product' download
Article includes practical points that may help insurers.
Light at the end of the indemnity tunnel weblink
Court of Appeal decision should make life easier for lenders and claimants seeking an indemnity from the Land Registry under Schedule 8.
Representations and warranties insurance in M&A transactions download
Negotiations over representations and warranties and the related indemnification in M&A transactions are often time-consuming and costly, even where the parties fully agree upon the purchase price.
Shipping: non-payment of hire – what can owners recover, and how? weblink
An owner should terminate the charter in circumstances where it can show the defaults are sufficiently serious to deprive it of the benefit of the charter.
US: New indexed universal life illustrations model heading for consensus download
Regulators and industry representatives who have been grappling with new rules concerning Indexed Universal Life Insurance (IUL) illustrations for the past year came together in person on 26 March.
Isle of Man introduces insurance special purpose vehicle download
The Isle of Man has introduced new insurance special purpose vehicle (ISPV) legislation which enhances the island's already attractive insurance business offering.
Willis Group appoints Travelers legal head as GC ending four month vacancy
Risk adviser Willis Group has appointed Travelers' senior vice president and general counsel Matthew Furman as global general counsel in its New York office.
US insurance giant Foran Glennon to launch in London through Locke Lord hires
US firm Foran Glennon Palandech Ponzi & Rudloff is planning to launch a London office through the hire of two Locke Lord lawyers, partner Gavin Coull and consultant Damian Cleary.
The £9m box-ticking blunder: the devil is in the detail download
An analysis of public body liability in the wake of a £9m Companies House administrative blunder.
Plexus loses 13 travel lawyers to Kennedys following group restructure
Plexus Law has lost a team of 13 lawyers from its travel law practice to insurance firm Kennedys, including senior partner and head of the practice Claire Mulligan and partner Justin Collins.
Insurance Act 2015: the most significant changes ever? weblink
Biggest changes to British commercial insurance law for at least 100 years.
Slater & Gordon set to hand over £700m for Quindell professional services arm
Slater & Gordon is poised to buy insurance outsourcer Quindell's professional services arm for around £700m overnight on Monday (30 March) before the exclusivity period on its acquisition right expires.
ACE group appoints Susan McDonald as Africa regional general counsel
Insurance company ACE group has appointed Susan McDonald to the role of regional general counsel for Eurasia and Africa as it continues to build up its management team in the region.
Finance litigation – lending: sue the right party; credit broker liability; and more download
Review of the latest cases and issues affecting the lending industry.
Treasury Committee: FCA has not "fully grasped" failings revealed in Davis report
The Treasury Committee has criticised the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for not addressing the failings identified by Clifford Chance partner Simon Davis in his report into a market leak last year.
Shipping: Extending time for performance? Consider the markets weblink
A useful reminder of the principles applied to calculate damages under English law.
Serbia: liberalising the insurance market and getting in line with the EU download
Significant changes have been made to the legislation relating to the insurance market.
A big win for creditors and insolvency practitioners download
MoJ extends insolvency LASPOA exemption.
The Insurance Act 2015 – the risky business of commercial insurance contracts weblink
The Insurance Act 2015 introduces key changes to commercial insurance contracts, covering the duty of disclosure, warranties and the remedies that insurers have for fraudulent claims.
Financial Regulatory Developments: weaknesses in Suspicious Activity Reports system; de-risking under fire; and more download
Latest update on regulatory moves in the UK, Europe and beyond.
£175k fine for travel insurer over security breach download
The ICO has served Staysure.co.uk, an online travel insurer, with a £175,000 penalty notice for a serious breach of the security principle of data protection law.
Parabis expands insurer relationships with RSA ABS partnership
Insurance giant RSA has launched an alternative business structure (ABS) to take its first steps into the legal market, teaming up with Parabis to obtain a licence.
Insurance regional highlights download
The insurance sector in South Eastern Europe has undergone considerable change in recent years.
Keoghs' LLPs: 19 per cent profit decline with 4 per cent drop in turnover to £54.9m
North West insurance firm Keoghs has reported a 19 per cent drop in its net profit for the 2013/14 financial year, coupled with a 4 per cent decline in turnover.
US: update on the revision of the Uniform Unclaimed Property Act inc. payroll cards, unclaimed shares in Apple and audit limits download
A quick update on some issues being addressed by the drafting committee of the Uniform Law Commission, including gift cards, using payroll cards as uncashed payroll, regulation of insurance benefis and statutes of limitation on audits.
Covington expands Californian presence with Los Angeles office
Covington & Burling is set to open an office in Los Angeles next week (9 March 2015) with a 15-strong lawyer team including two senior lateral hires from Pillsbury and O'Melveny & Myers.
Podcast: Attention contractors, developers and consultants! weblink
What contractors, developers and consultants need to know about the new Insurance Act 2015.
Marketform appoints new general counsel McKay from Aspen Re
Lloyd's of London underwriter Marketform has appointed Alastair McKay as its new general counsel.
Insurance – foreign investment rules in India download
New rules seek to provide a framework for foreign investment in the Indian insurance sector.
DAC Beachcroft Claims Solutions chief Bill Paton exits for RSA
DAC Beachcroft (DACB) Claims Limited chief executive Bill Paton is set to exit the firm at the end of March to join insurer RSA as UK and Western Europe claims director on 1 May.
PRIIPS regulation download
Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 November 2014 regards key information documents for packaged retail and insurance-based investment products.
After 21 years Municipal General goes into liquidation, with 20 Essex Street QC advising
Municipal General Reinsurance was finally placed into liquidation on 20 February, nearly 21 years after the appointment of liquidators and following the termination of the scheme of arrangement.
Shearman, Slaughters and SullCrom advise on Fairfax takeover of Brit
Shearman & Sterling, Slaughter and May and Sullivan & Cromwell (S&C) have played key advisory roles on today's (17 February) £1.22bn takeover bid by Fairfax Financial Holdings for insurance company Brit.
InVest – February 2015 download
This month's roundup of developments affecting banks, wealth managers, brokers and funds sees: the EU Commission and EIB launch a new advisory service on financial instruments and the Government response to the DECC consultation on new criminal offences for manipulating the energy market.
Karanovic & Nikolic partner set to speak at representation and warranty insurance seminar
Representation and warranty insurance and directors' and officers' insurance was the topic of a recent event organised by the Serbian Private Equity Association together with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce.
Portfolio insurance companies in the Cayman Islands download
The Cayman Islands legislature recently enacted The Insurance (Portfolio Insurance Companies) Regulations, 2015 and related sections of The Insurance (Amendment) Law, 2013.
Still no law penalising late payments by insurers download
The Commercial Court recently handed down another judgment in the long-running matter of Starlight Shipping Company v Allianz Marine and Aviation Versicherungs AG & Ors [2014].
RPC kicks off management consultancy business with Towers Watson hire
RPC has hired Towers Watson risk consulting and software chief Rory O'Brien to launch a management consultancy business, which will trade as RPC Consulting.
Eversheds appoints three new partners in banking, international trade and transport
Eversheds expands Switzerland team with the appointment of three new partners.
HFW elects Marcus Bowman as managing partner
Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW) partners have elected Marcus Bowman as managing partner effective 1 April, replacing George Eddings after just two years in the role.
BLM offers all London staff flexible working contracts
BLM is offering a flexible working programme for all its staff in London as the firm consolidates its two offices into one location.
Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) — ESMA publishes MAR advice; FCA publishes crowd funding review; and more download
Dentons has released the 6 February 2015 issue of its Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) publication.
Minter Ellison names head of insurance and corporate risk for Asia and Western Australia
Insurance specialist Will Harrison has joined the Minter Ellison in Perth as head of insurance and corporate risk: Asia and Western Australia.
Novae Group appoints RSA lawyer as first group general counsel
Insurance underwriter Novae Group has appointed Alexandra Moon as its first-ever group general counsel.
DAC Beachcroft departures stack up in Madrid
Longstanding DAC Beachcroft (DACB) Madrid lead partner Pablo Wesolowski has left the firm to join 11 former colleagues at Rousaud Costas Duran (RCD).
State aid: UK flood insurance scheme gets EC green light download
The European Commission has given state aid approval to a UK scheme designed to make sure that owners of properties at risk of flooding can obtain affordable insurance.
BLM senior partner Mike Brown re-elected to oversee international expansion strategy
BLM's 200 partners have unanimously reappointed senior partner Mike Brown to the role or a second three-year term.
HFW gears up for March managing partner election
Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW) managing partner George Eddings is set for a challenge to his leadership in March as his two-year tenure comes up for renewal.
Ince & Co named Onshore Law Firm of the Year at UK Captive Services Awards
Ince & Co's specialist captives insurance practice has been recognised by Captives Review, winning the Onshore Law Firm of the Year 2015 award.
Plevin v Paragon — non-disclosure of the amount of PPI commission paid to the lender rendered its relationship with the borrower unfair weblink
The Supreme Court has ruled that non-disclosure of the significant amount of commission earned by a lender created unfairness in the borrower's relationship with it.
Conyers Dill & Pearman advises AXIS Capital on its merger with PartnerRe
Conyers Dill & Pearman is advising AXIS Capital Holdings Ltd on its $11bn (£7.3bn) merger of equals with PartnerRe Ltd.
The entry into force of the Nairobi Convention on Wreck Removal: is it a big deal? weblink
The Nairobi Convention will come into force in April. It provides a strict liability regime for the removal of hazardous wrecks in Exclusive Economic Zones.
Addleshaw Goddard advises Miller Insurance Services on major insurance partnership deal
Addleshaw Goddard's professional practices team has advised on what it is calling one of the most significant professional partnership deals in the City.
The fat lady ain't sung yet… Who are the real losers in the ongoing Mariah Re ILS dispute? weblink
A claim brought by Mariah Re is one of few cat bonds to have been triggered, and almost as quickly went into dispute.
Cayman Islands portfolio insurance companies download
The long-awaited portfolio insurance company legislation is now in force.
Insurance and reinsurance
11 Stone Buildings has barristers and accredited mediators specialising in the resolution of insurance and reinsurance disputes.
Insurance business transfer schemes in Jersey download
This briefing provides an introduction to the factors that determine whether a Jersey insurance business transfer scheme is required and an outline of the procedure for the transfer of insurance business in Jersey.
Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) — Lloyd's gives sanctions guidance; Commission adopts Solvency 2 and CRR acts; and more download
Dentons has released the 16 January 2015 issue of its Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) publication.
Clyde & Co's James Burns: "I've always thought of management as a team sport"
It has been just over a year since James Burns took over as senior partner at Clyde & Co, succeeding Michael Payton who stood down to become chairman after 28 years at the helm.
DAC Beachcroft insurance head Pollitt on the firm's push into Latin America
Earlier this week DAC Beachcroft (DACB) announced it had signed an exclusive alliance with Madrid-based Muñoz Arribas Abogados in a further bid to boost its insurance and health practices in Spain and Latin America.
20 Essex Street's Raphael appointed as QC
20 Essex Street has announced that Thomas Raphael has been appointed as Queen's Counsel.
New California laws download
Governor Jerry Brown signed 930 bills during the 2014 session, the most in a single year since he took office in 2011. He also vetoed 143 bills, or about 13 per cent of the total that were sent to him.
Tan, Chee Meng
Deputy managing partner
Serbia: new Insurance Act download
The Serbian insurance industry is welcoming the new Insurance Act, which substantially overhauls regulation in this area.
Consultation paper on a risk-based capital framework for the insurance industry in Hong Kong download
The OCI has announced the publication by the Insurance Authority (IA) of a consultation paper on a risk-based capital framework for the insurance industry in Hong Kong (the Consultation Paper).
Kennedys follows through on promise of Scottish insurance launch
Kennedys has taken over a litigation boutique and hired a partner from McClure Naismith as part of a plan to rapidly grow a presence north of the border.
Debevoise, Skadden and Slaughters take key roles on XL Group's $4.2bn acquisition of Catlin
Debevoise & Plimpton, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom and Slaughter and May have played key advisory roles on the $4.2bn sale of insurance giant Catlin Group to XL Group.
Changes to social insurance laws download
As of 1 January members of supervisory boards have joined join the group of persons subject to mandatory retirement and disability pension insurance.
Luxembourg newsflash — 6 January 2015 download
The banking union package is based on two pillars, the single supervisory mechanism and the single resolution mechanism, while the single rule book is the foundation on which the banking union is built.
InSure — December 2014: EIOPA's consultations on Solvency II; FCA's strategic approach and more download
This month's round-up of developments affecting the insurance industry sees: EIOPA publish a series of consultations on Solvency II implementing technical standards and guidelines and much more.
Definition of the principle of utmost good faith download
Tthe Swiss Federal Act on Insurance Contracts imposes certain duties of information and disclosure on the parties to a contract.
Kennedys enters co-operation agreement with Chinese firm AnJie
Kennedys has formalised a long-term relationship with Chinese firm AnJie by entering a co-operation agreement with the Beijing-headquartered firm.
Schoenherr advises VIG on its first direct real estate acquisitions in Poland
Schoenherr has advised VIG Fund on its recent purchases of two top-tier commercial properties in Warsaw.
Global capital standard for insurers moves a step closer, but KPMG warns there is much still to do
Insurance groups need to respond to the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) consultation.
2014 London Super Lawyers recognises Ince & Co members
The 2014 issue of London Super Lawyers has named seven Ince & Co lawyers as 'Super Lawyers' and four as 'Rising Stars'.
California's Insurance Fraud Prevention Act: three unsettled issues the health sector should understand download
California's Insurance Frauds Prevention Act, Ins. Code §§ 1871 et seq. (IFPA), is an unusual false claims statute.
Fraudulent means and devices: honesty is the best policy download
Versloot Dredging BV & Or v HDI Gerling Industrie Versicherung AG & Ors considered whether the entire claim is forfeit if an Insured relies on fraudulent means or devices in pursuing a claim.
Clyde & Co announces 5 per cent growth in revenue at half-year
Clyde & Co has reported a 5.3 per rise in income at the half-year, bringing revenue for the first six months of 2014/15 to £178m.
Bucks ABS expected to generate £400,000 profit for local authority over five years
Buckinghamshire County Council has tasked its new alternative business structure (ABS) with generating profits of £400,000 over the next five years.
Unpicking the insurance stress test results — a concern or not? download
The headlines following the release of the latest European insurance stress test results made depressing reading. However, the actual position is more positive.
Graber, Dr Christoph K
Brunner, Dr Hans-Ulrich
Insurance and reinsurance
Prager Dreifuss has many years of experience in Swiss and international insurance and reinsurance law and is one of the leading providers of legal services in this field.
Hong Kong's first prison sentence under the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance download
The Hong Kong privacy commissioner for personal data (PCPD) announced last week that a former insurance agent has received a prison sentence in respect of offences under the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.
Stories of the year: March
March set up some of the defining stories of 2014, with Addleshaw Goddard kicking of its early election, and PwC and DWF declaring top 20 aspirations in their respective markets.
FCA admits being "under strain" as it names McDermott as new director
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has promoted lawyer and current head of enforcement Tracey McDermott as part of a structural overhaul after admitting its supervision function was "under strain".
Wragge set for key role in driverless cars initiative
Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co's automotive team will play a significant role in a driverless cars initiative.
DLA Piper recognised in Law360's global practice group rankings in eight areas of law
DLA Piper has announced that the firm has been recognised in Law360's global practice group rankings as a law firm with the largest practice group in eight specific areas of the law.
UK Counter Terrorism and Security Bill — does it affect ransom payments to pirates? weblink
Much will no doubt be written about the main provisions of the new Counter Terrorism and Security Bill.
Management liability: potential risk zones download
Lawsuits seeking compensation of damages caused to a company by its management are being filed with increasing frequency.
Insurance law reform in England download
English insurance law is changing. Following recommendations of the Law Commission, a Bill was introduced in the House of Lords on 17 July 2014 and will now be rushed through before the next election.
Baker Tilly's Fidler comments on Autumn Statement 2014's effect on employers
Lesley Fidler, associate director at Baker Tilly, has commented on the Autumn Statement 2014 and its impact on employers.
The 'Only Way is' Profits: High Court measures loss of profits in the wake of Sugar Hut blaze download
In Sugar Hut Group v AJ Insurance, the High Court was asked to consider the business interruption losses arising out of a fire at the Sugar Hut club in Essex.
InSure — November 2014: EU Council agrees its general approach to IMD2; and more download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the November 2014 issue of its InSure publication.
Parabis backer Duke Street injects £13m cash into firm
Private equity backed Parabis Group has received a further £13m cash injection from its investor Duke Street.
Dacheng advises Sunshine Insurance Group on Sheraton on the Park acquisition
A Dacheng team co-ordinated by senior partner Liu Xinde has advised Sunshine Insurance Group on PRC law issues related to the acquisition.
DLA Piper advises Ping An Insurance on $4.75bn H-share placing
The placing agreement was signed on 30 November 2014, pursuant to which Morgan Stanley will place an aggregate of 594,056,000 new H shares.
BLM breaks through £100m revenue barrier as Campbell Fitzpatrick merger goes live
BLM has added £4m to its top line with the completion of its merger with Belfast-headquartered Campbell Fitzpatrick Solicitors (CFS) on 1 December.
DAC Beachcroft and DWF bulk up with team hires in Bristol
DAC Beachcroft and DWF have both made team hires in Bristol, with the latter swooping on Greenwoods for a second time after Parabis closed its office in the city.
Financial Regulatory Developments: CJEU finds against UK on bonuses; Treasury extends market abuse sunset clauses; Treasury publishes BRRD legislation; and more download
Dentons has released the 28 November 2014 issue of its Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) publication.
Skadden takes Freshfields insurance partner Robert Stirling
Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom has taken Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer insurance partner Robert Stirling to join its global financial institutions group.
The in-house interview: Hyperion GC Will Bloomer on panels and acquisitions
Hyperion general counsel Will Bloomer provides a whistle-stop tour of the consolidating insurance market and explains why he doesn't believe in panels.
Riots revisited: making the mayor pay weblink
The Court of Appeal has reached its conclusions in Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co (Europe) Ltd & Anor v The Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime.
Sound the alarm: Milton Furniture Ltd v Brit Insurance Ltd weblink
Mr Justice Jay's judgment in Milton Furniture Ltd v Brit Insurance Ltd is a ringing reminder of the importance of an insured's compliance with policy provisions relating to security.
Double standards? A lesson in the meaning of 'business-like' manners weblink
Two recent cases have dealt with the obligation on (re)insurers to act in a business-like manner or to take business-like steps in the course of their claims handling or settlement.'
Brokers' conflicts of interest: the FCA is in a pugnacious mood weblink
The UK Financial Conduct Authority has turned its glare on brokers and perceives a potential conflict of interest among those who use 'integrated models' as a means to boost income.
Business interruption insurance: what duties does a broker owe its client? weblink
Eurokey Recycling Ltd v Giles Insurance Brokers Ltd has provided helpful guidelines regarding the duties of an insurance broker in relation to the placement of business interruption insurance.
Don't be left feeling the pain — physical and financial — from an uninsured dentist download
Statistics suggest that around one in every four of us suffers from some sort of anxiety before heading to the dentist.
Jackson reforms: a return to common sense? weblink
Post-Mitchell, there followed a number of first instance cases in which judges applied the Mitchell guidance to applications for relief from sanctions.
Advising a client to mind his own business: to do or not to do? weblink
In Wellesley Partners LLP v Withers the defendant solicitors were found to be liable for damages in excess of £1.6m arising out of the unauthorised amendment of one very brief clause in an LLP agreement.
Architects' net contribution: no longer a clause for concern? weblink
In West and another v Ian Finlay & Associates, the Court of Appeal reversed the finding of the court at first instance and held a net contribution clause to be valid and binding.
Enough said? The scope of duty owed by professionals weblink
The recent Court of Appeal decision in Mehjoo v Harben Barker [2014] EWCA Civ 358 provides guidance as to the limits of a professional's duty to his client.
Cyber issues for insurers weblink
The continued dependence on electronic and network-based systems means that all businesses, regardless of their size or area of operation are increasingly exposed to cyber risks.
Post-acquisition events and company valuations weblink
In Ageas (UK) Limited v Kwik-Fit (GB) Limited and AIG Europe Ltd, the High Court examined the legal authorities on measuring loss for breach of a warranty in a share and purchase agreement.
Insurance E-Brief — in brief weblink
The in-brief secton of Ince & Co's Insurance E-Brief provides updates on recent legal developments and significant cases.
Court of Appeal takes firm stance against use of a fraudulent device in an insurance claim download
The Court of Appeal in Versloot Dredging BV v HDI Gerling Industrie Versicherang AG has made it clear that where an insured uses a 'fraudulent device', it will forfeit the entire claim.
An after-the-event (ATE) insurance policy suffices as security for costs of appeal download
This was the finding in GSM Export (UK) Ltd (in Administration) and another v Revenue & Customs Commissioners, in which GSM Export appealed against a refusal of repayment of input tax.
Ogier BVI office recruits Andrew Wanambwa as dispute litigation partner
Wanambwa has experience advising major corporates, financial institutions and insolvency practitioners on a broad range of large commercial disputes.
Yerlan Turemuratov represents GRATA Law Firm at small-business support forum
Yerlan Turemuratov, GRATA representative in Uralsk and Aksai, represented GRATA at the Forum on Support to Small and Medium Businesses in Almaty.
Dacheng advises on Ping An-China Enterprise real-estate debt investment plan
Dacheng has advised Ping An Asset Management Co on the issuing of its investment plan, the Ping An-China Enterprise real-estate debt investment plan.
Infrastructure and public-private partnership (PPP)
The lawyers of Colibri Kazakhstan possess innovative experience in supporting infrastructure and industry projects in Kazakhstan since the moment of the development of PPP mechanisms in the country.
Our lawyers have excellent expertise in the transport industry.
Dispute resolution
The litigation team at Colibri Kazakhstan deals with all aspects of commercial dispute resolution cases, most of which result in success.
Allen & Overy and Linklaters win key roles on Aviva's £5.6bn merger with Friends Life
Allen & Overy and Linklaters have been instructed to advise insurance giants Aviva and Friends Life on their proposed £5.6bn merger.
Condurache, Diana
Managing associate
Focus: loans to enterprises by insurance companies — amendments to Regulation 36/2011 approved by IVASS download
Law Decree no. 91 of 2014 has added a new provision to paragraph 2 of article 114 of Legislative Decree no. 385 of 1 September 1993.
New reporting obligations for financial companies download
This newsflash provides information on the obligations under the BCL Regulation as amended by Regulation 2014/N17.
Banking, finance, secured lending, securitisation, capital markets and related
We have built a strong reputation in both domestic and cross-border finance transactions, working together with our own offices in other locations or with reputable firms.
Financial crime controls download
The FCA has published the results of two reviews into how firms manage their financial crime risks, together with proposed guidance on financial crime systems and controls.
Neil Hudgell Solicitors helps paralysed man receive compensation
Matt Tuff, a specialist solicitor, has helped a man who was left paralysed after being hit by a car to receive a seven-figure compensation settlement.
Group insurance covers — clarity regarding the scope of an insurer's subrogation rights download
On 14 November 2014, the English Court of Appeal handed down its judgment relating to a complex dispute under a civil liability insurance policy.
UK Automotive Newsletter — holiday pay test cases; the Consumer Protection (Amendment) Regulations 2014; and more download
This briefing from Dentons covers the latest legal and regulatory updates in the UK automotive industry.
Minter Ellison assists WICET in responding to adjudication applications
Minter Ellison has helped WICET respond to two of the largest adjudication applications in the history of the Building and Construction Industry Payments Act.
Asia Women in Business Law Awards 2015 recognise Rosita Lau and Su Yin Anand
Rosita Lau, Hong Kong-based partner at Ince & Co, has been named winner for 'Best in Shipping' at the Asia Women in Business Law Awards 2015.
What the US mid-terms mean for the insurance sector download
Every two years there is a shake-up of the state insurance commissioners. This year will be no different.
Reinsurance activities in Luxembourg download
Luxembourg offers interesting tax legislation for reinsurance businesses.
In-house interview: Direct Line Group's Humphrey Tomlinson
Direct Line Group's Humphrey Tomlinson has steered the insurance giant down a successful road to an IPO, and an ABS win
Badescu, Georgiana
Filipescu, Mugur
Senior partner
Voicu & Filipescu's specialised attorneys provide legal advice in all areas of insurance law to both corporate and insured individuals.
The power of a comma: how to make indemnity clauses enforceable download
A recent case is a good lesson for those involved with the drafting of acquisition indemnities to ensure the wording and grammatical construction is clear.
RPC posts 16 per cent rise in turnover at half-year
RPC has increased revenue by 16 per cent from £38.7m to £46m in the half-year period from 1 May to 31 October 2014.
Brisbane G20 summit — a new agenda for financial services download
The Brisbane summit provides an opportune moment for policymakers to reflect upon two key questions for regulatory reform.
Addleshaw Goddard loses insurance litigation chief Leedham to Mishcon
Addleshaw Goddard's insurance litigation head Richard Leedham is the latest partner to resign in a year characterised by high-profile exits from the firm.
Simmons adds Edwards Wildman partner in Hong Kong
Simmons & Simmons has picked up Edwards Wildman Palmer insurance partner Martin Lister in Hong Kong.
James Wilson set to step down as international senior partner at Ince & Co
Jan Heuvels will succeed Wilson as international senior partner, while Paul Herring takes on the new role of chairman.
Eversheds advises NHP on £477m disposal
Eversheds has advised NHP on its £477m acquisition by Formation Capital, Safanad and Court Cavendish.
DLA Piper represents Gulf Related in Abu Dhabi department store agreement
DLA Piper played a key role in an agreement between Gulf Related and Al Tayer Group that will see the opening of Macy's and Bloomingdale's at Al Maryah Central.
Conyers Dill & Pearman achieves eight top rankings in The Legal 500's 2015 edition
Conyers has been awarded eight top rankings in The Legal 500's 2015 edition. The firm's offices in Bermuda, the BVI, Dubai and Hong Kong all received a tier-one ranking.
Getting the deal done with representation and warranty insurance download
For most M&A transactions, one of the primary concerns for the buyer is understanding the risks it will be inheriting through the purchase of certain assets and/or shares.
7KBW barrister hands down judgment in the matter of the 'Longchamp'
On 24 October 2014, 7KBW barrister Stephen Hofmeyr QC, sitting as a deputy district judge, handed down judgment in the matter of the 'Longchamp'.
Commercial dispute resolution
20 Essex Street advises on all types of commercial disputes and has expertise in disputes with an international dimension.
Will the wait be worth it? The Third Parties (Rights against Insurers) Act 2010 download
Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co's engineering and construction experts consider the principal changes in the new Third Parties (Rights Against Insurers) Act 2010.
Bill of lading 'law and arbitration' clause incorporates charterparty court jurisdiction provision weblink
This dispute concerns a claim for cargo damage of around $1m under a bill of lading on the Congenbill 1994 standard form.
Eleven new governors could appoint new insurance commissioners in 2015 download
As a result of the 2014 mid-term elections, 11 new governors could appoint new insurance commissioners/directors/superintendents in 2015.
BLM launches new marine offering with Greenwoods team
BLM has launched a new marine insurance team with the addition of legacy Greenwoods partner Gemma Pearce and two other fee-earners from Parabis' defunct Bristol office.
InVest — government consults on fair and effective markets review recommendations; and more download
InVest features a round-up of developments affecting banks, wealth managers, brokers and funds.
InSure — final version of Solvency II Delegated Regulation; IMD 2 compromise proposals; and more download
InSure features a round-up of developments affecting the insurance industry.
DLA Piper named winner in Insurance Law Firm 2014 category at Legal 500 UK Awards
DLA Piper is celebrating success after having been named the winner in the Insurance Law Firm 2014 category at The Legal 500 UK Awards.
Kennedys chief executive Guy Stobart steps down
Kennedys chief executive officer Guy Stobart is to stand down from his role at the end of this year after five years in the role.
Financial Regulatory Developments — ECB publishes bank resilience results; BoE launches FICC markets review; and more download
Dentons has released the 31 October 2014 issue of its Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) publication.
Consumer finance update: proposed rulemaking under the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014 download
A number of agencies have approved a joint notice of the proposed rulemaking to amend regulations pertaining to loans secured by property located in special flood hazard areas.
Kennedys becomes latest top 50 firm to gain ABS licence
Kennedys is the latest top 50 firm to become an alternative business structure (ABS) after being awarded a licence this weekend.
DWF cuts 26 jobs in Liverpool
DWF has made 15 secretaries, six solicitors, four paralegals, and one analyst from its fraud, intelligence and motor teams redundant following a consultation that kicked off in June.
To be or not to be a 'consumer': a question for the court, not FOS download
The court has considered an application for judicial review of a decision made by the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) to entertain a complaint against the applicant.
Regional Steel: the continuing effort to avoid the cost of correcting the insured's work download
Regional Steel Corp v Liberty Surplus Ins Corp: when are, and are not, damages allegedly resulting from an insured's work insured 'property damage'?
Neil Hudgell Solicitors secures compensation for client who sustained serious head injuries
Neil Hudgell Solicitors has secured compensation of £1.8m for a man who was left with severe injuries when hit by an uninsured driver.
BLM and Keoghs and Simpson Marwick win spots on new Hastings Direct panel
BLM, Keoghs and Simpson Marwick have been appointed to insurance broker Hastings Direct's new slimline claims defendant panel.
What are brokers' duties when arranging business interruption cover? download
Mr Justice Blair has clarified the scope of brokers' duties in relation to business interruption cover in Eurokey Recycling Ltd v Giles Insurance Brokers.
ATE premiums and CFA success fees will soon be non-recoverable in insolvency proceedings download
This note is relevant to office holders who have, or may have, claims that, prior to April 2015, they ought — or wish — to bring against any third party.
Clyde & Co opens in Brisbane with three partners from Sparke Helmore
Clyde & Co has picked up three partners from Australian firm Sparke Helmore in Brisbane to open its fourth office in the country.
Legal 500 UK awards Addleshaw Goddard with 41 top rankings for 2014
The firm has reinforced its pre-eminent position in Leeds and Manchester, securing more Tier One rankings than any other law firm.
EIOPA launches new consultation on the solvency regime for IORPs download
The paper, which has been issued by EIOPA on its own initiative, considers how various aspects of the so-called 'holistic balance sheet' might work.
An end to the insolvency exemption download
The LASPO exemption for insolvency cases is due to come to an end in April 2015.
Revised institutional investor guidelines on share capital weblink
The guidelines are directed at premium-listed Main Market companies — although AIM companies are encouraged to adhere to the guidelines as best practice.
Insurance industry is challenged by digital future, says KPMG
'Transforming Insurance' — KPMG's latest report — highlights the sector's priorities and progress, particularly firms' digital maturity, to meet the digital challenge.
Review of certain legal amendments made in September 2014: industry and trade sector download
The following regions are discussed in this article: Azerbaijan; Kazakhstan; the Russian Federation; Uzbekistan; and Kyrgyzstan.
Parabis cuts 24 claimant fee earner roles in Croydon
Parabis has cut 24 fee earner roles from its Croydon-based claimant firm Cogent Law.
Cross-jurisdictional Ogier team advises Friends Life Group on sale of Lombard
Ogier has advised Friends Life Group on the sale of the entire share capital of its subsidiaries Lombard International Assurance SA and Insurance Development Holdings AG.
Minter Ellison is named 'Insurance Law Firm of the Year 2014' at AB F Insurance Awards
Minter Ellison has been named 'Insurance Law Firm of the Year 2014' at the AB F Insurance Awards in Sydney for the third consecutive year.
Ince & Co acts for the successful underwriters in 'fraudulent devices' ruling
The Court of Appeal has ruled in underwriters' favour as to the consequences of the use of a fraudulent device by an assured.
Court of appeal authoritatively confirms fraudulent devices rule weblink
The Court of Appeal has ruled in underwriters' favour regarding the use of a fraudulent device by an assured in connection with the presentation of an insurance claim.
Captive Review honours Conyers for its work in the captive insurance space
Conyers has been named as the Offshore Law Firm in the 2014 US Captive Services Awards and Bermuda has been awarded the Offshore Captive Domicile.
Parabis's Tim Roberts: "We're still lawyers really"
Until recently Tim Roberts resided very much in the shadows at Parabis, quietly masterminding the systems and processes that have created the volume powerhouse that the firm is today.
Doing Business in the United States download
Doing Business in the United States is an introductory guide for non-US businesses that may be interested in doing business in the US.
All is not lost if you're in an accident with an uninsured driver download
It can happen to anyone, at any time. Unfortunately, road traffic accidents are part and parcel of modern day-to-day life.
Renewables specialist Martin Sandgren joins Ince & Co's energy group in London
Ince & Co has announced the appointment of renewables specialist Martin Sandgren to its London energy group.
AGCM and IVASS: memorandum of understanding on consumer protection download
On 7 October 2014, the AGCM and the IVASS signed a memorandum of understanding concerning the consumer protection on the insurance market.
Financial Regulatory Developments — Council publishes unfinished business table; ESMA consults on EMIR measures; and more download
Dentons has released the 10 October 2014 issue of its Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) publication.
In-house profile: QBE general counsel Esther Felton
Esther Felton's vision as GC for insurer QBE was to create a legal function that works shoulder to shoulder with the business. Now a reality, her team's remit is extending and fast acquiring specialist expertise
Pillsbury unveils global security team to help clients with strategy and compliance needs
Pillsbury has assembled a new team to help clients with their global security strategy and compliance needs.
Doing Business in Australia download
This guide provides sound, practical advice on the relevant laws and regulations for foreign companies looking to invest in Australia.
YouView legal boss Vitale moves to comparethemarket.com owner BGL Group
YouView's general counsel Tony Vitale has joined insurance company BGL Group in a new role as head of legal.
Legal 500 UK directory recognises Conyers Dill & Pearman as top-tier law firm
Conyers Dill & Pearman has been recognised as a top-tier firm in the 2014 edition of The Legal 500 UK.
Compensation pay-outs for head and brain injuries: interim payments available when fault is admitted download
Recovery from a brain injury can take a long time. It is likely the individual seeking compensation will suffer losses in the form of lost earnings and incurring expenses.
Drug testing in the workplace: the key issues for employers and employees download
Research from four leading screening companies has shown that the number of UK employers that are drug-testing their workers has increased significantly.
Neil Hudgell Solicitors is shortlisted for 'Outstanding Case of the Year' award
Neil Hudgell Solicitors has been shortlisted for the 'Outstanding Case of the Year' award by the Eclipse Proclaim Personal Injury Awards.
7KBW wins Insurance Set of the Year accolade at Chambers and Partners Bar Awards dinner
At the Chambers and Partners Bar Awards dinner, which took place on 2 October 2014, 7KBW was awarded Insurance Set of the Year 2014.
The Legal 500 UK ranks Carey Olsen in tier one across 16 practice categories
The new release of The Legal 500 UK has ranked Carey Olsen in tier one across all of its 16 practice categories in the Channel Islands.
UAE employment law updates download
The Dubai Health Insurance Law No. 11 of 2013 obligates all employers in Dubai to provide their employees with compulsory healthcare insurance.
Starlight Shipping v Allianz Marine download
As an alternative to an anti-suit injunction, the Commercial Court confirms that an award of damages for breach of an English jurisdiction clause is compatible with EU law.
Recoverability of costs and the ECHR — an impending incompatibility? download
This article considers the current adjournment in the case of Coventry and others v Lawrence and another (No 2) and its potential effects on litigation funding.
Insolvency litigation briefing — directors will be responsible for breaches of accounting practice; and more download
Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co's insolvency litigation team brings you its monthly update on the cases and issues affecting the insolvency and fraud investigation industry.
Making a brain injury compensation claim: how to obtain adequate funding for rehabilitation and loss of earnings download
Brain injury, unlike physical injury, is not always easy to see, and thus the full impact of such an injury is not necessarily appreciated by others.
Financial Regulatory Developments — FSB reports on Cairns plenary; EBA consults on early intervention; and more download
Dentons has published the 26 September 2014 issue of its Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) publication.
Daily Business Review honours DLA Piper's Joshua Kaye at 2014 Rising Stars Awards
Joshua Kaye, co-chair of DLA Piper's US Healthcare practice, has been named to the Daily Business Review's 'Rising Stars' list.
Comcare licensees: push to lower barriers to entry to the federal WHS system download
Australia's federal government is proposing to make it easier for businesses to opt out of state- and territory-specific WHS laws and to join the federal WHS system.
Who's Who Legal guides recognise 16 offshore lawyers from Carey Olsen
Carey Olsen lawyers from the Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey have been recognised as leaders in their fields by this year's Who's Who Legal guides.
BLM merges with eight-partner Belfast firm to launch in Northern Ireland
BLM has announced it is to merge with Belfast firm Campbell Fitzpatrick Solicitors (CFS) on 30 November, adding eight partners and another 13 lawyers to its roster.
Weightmans beefs up Glasgow office with triple partner hire
Weightmans has embarked on a significant expansion of its Glasgow office, hiring three partners from Anderson Strathern and BTO Solicitors in the first wave of a recruitment drive.
Despite having WSIB coverage, worker permitted to sue 'physically demonstrative' executive officer who 'massaged' her neck download
Physically demonstrative managers beware: your company's workers compensation coverage does not necessarily protect you from lawsuits by employees.
Financial Regulatory Developments — Commission plans Level 2 programme; FCA publishes mobile payments review; and more download
Dentons has published the 19 September 2014 issue of its Financial Regulatory Developments (FReD) publication.
SRA confirms next phase of regulatory reform download
During the summer, the Solicitor's Regulation Authority (SRA) has been consulting on six specific aspects of regulatory reform.
Zaman QC, Mohammed
Clyde & Co formalises Riyadh association
Clyde & Co has obtained formal approval from the authorities in Saudi Arabia to launch a co-owned joint venture with its Riyadh alliance firm.
Li Jiquan
Zhao, Qilong
The maritime business department specialises in international shipping, port management, shipping management, maritime insurance claims and ship mortgages.
Wang, Zhong
Cai, Jingli
Civil and commercial litigation
As one of the earliest practice departments established in King & Capital, we are able to draw on some of the most talented legal minds in the country.
Pillsbury partner receives WesPay's Frank E Zima Award for Payments Advocacy
WesPay has announced that Pillsbury partner Deborah S Thoren-Peden is the recipient of the Frank E Zima Award for Payments Advocacy.
Benchmark Asia Pacific recommends Ince & Co as top dispute resolution firm
Benchmark Asia Pacific, which covers the litigation market, has ranked Ince & Co as one of the recommended dispute resolution firms in Asia.
Ilyashev & Partners secures four merger clearances from competition regulator
Ilyashev & Partners has obtained four merger clearances from Ukraine's competition regulator, the Antitrust Committee, for PZU, an international insurance group.
Corporate Insurance Trends 2014 — insurance update (Australia) download
Corporate Insurance Trends 2014 is a collection of articles highlighting some trends and key issues for financial lines insurers and their insureds in 2014.
Gateley is instructed in UK's biggest surety bond syndication deal
Gateley has been instructed by a surety syndicate in what the firm describes as the UK's largest-ever surety bond syndication deal.
Technology enabling vehicles to communicate is ahead of legal framework, says Eversheds
Eversheds partner Paul Pugh has commented on the latest advancements in automation technology.
Hogan Lovells, Slaughters and Bakers line up on €12bn longevity swap deal
A trio of firms including Hogan Lovells has advised on Reinsurance Group of America's (RGA) €12bn longevity swap with Delta Lloyd Levensverzekering.
Are Yorkshire people missing out on compensation for genuine injuries? download
Research has suggested people in the Yorkshire and Humberside region are the most reluctant in the UK to claim compensation for genuine personal injuries.
Panel reviews 2014: The chosen ones download
Which firms are cutting it in this era of slimline rosters, and who are the GC new brooms making clean sweeps? The Lawyer can reveal all
Professional indemnity: Misunderstanding PII
For more insurance news and analysis go to thelawyer/insurance
Surgeons and doctors 'likely to cause road accidents due to stress and tiredness' download
Analysis compiled by moneysupermarket.com has found nine of the 10 occupations that cause the most accidents on the road to be medical workers.
Hill Dickinson cuts 40 jobs in counter-fraud team
Hill Dickinson has cut 40 roles and made two redeployments to other parts of the firm following a 30-day consultation that kicked off on 21 July.
Shipping and transport
Our experienced shipping and transport team provides a world-class service to an international client base.
LTD insurance requirements coming soon for Ontario employers download
The Ontario government has proposed to amend the Insurance Act (Ontario) by requiring mandatory insurance of long-term disability (LTD) benefits provided by employers.
DLA Piper names Carl Buchholz as managing partner of Philadelphia office
DLA Piper has announced that Carl Buchholz has been named managing partner of the firm's Philadelphia's office. Buchholz succeeds Jim Brogan.
Gouriet, Geoff
Breslin, David
DAC Beachcroft cuts 62 fee-earner and support roles
DAC Beachcroft cut a total of 62 jobs across the business last month following a redundancy consultation that kicked off in May.
The team handles high-level complex insurance and reinsurance matters for major domestic and international insurers and reinsurers.
Dispute resolution
There are more than 170 lawyers working globally to provide the best possible solution for your business, well-protected interests and carefully managed cost control.
DLA Piper represents Fosun in investment in US insurer Ironshore
DLA Piper has represented Shanghai-based investment group Fosun International in its equity investment in US insurer Ironshore.
DLA Piper consultant Michael Gill set to chair Code Compliance Committee
DLA Piper consultant Michael Gill has been elected to chair the Code Compliance Committee.
DAC Beachcroft profits slump by 10 per cent
DAC Beachcroft has announced a 9.7 per cent drop in net profit from £31.7m to £28.6m for the 2013/14 financial year.
John Fisher
Partner, Forensic Services
7KBW shortlisted for Set of the Year for insurance, arbitration and shipping
7KBW has been shortlisted by Chambers and Partners for the 2014 Chambers Bar Awards as Set of the Year for insurance, international arbitration and shipping.
Sian Herbert
Partner, Forensic Services
We have the breadth of expertise and experience to lead the development of best practice, understand the potential pitfalls you face and know what works in practice.
Video: Global Economic Crime Survey 2014 — a snapshot downloadweblink
PwC's head of investigations looks at the results of the seventh Global Economic Crime Survey and assesses how fraud in the UK has changed over the last few years.
The changing face of fraud: how economic crime can affect your business download
PwC looks at the results of its seventh Global Economic Crime Survey and assesses how fraud in the UK has changed over the last few years.
Neil Hudgell Solicitors represents pair who tripped in sunken drain
Neil Hudgell Solicitors has represented two people who suffered injuries as a result of tripping in a sunken drain that had been left in an unsafe condition for nine months.
Lessons from Lehman download
The Pensions Regulator has reported that a settlement agreement had been reached in respect of the Lehman Brothers Pension Scheme.
Personal injury bulletin: costs and procedure download
This bulletin assesses numerous cases, including Collins v (1) Secretary of State for BIS (2) Stena Lane Irish Sea Ferries Ltd and Ahktar v Boland.
Insurance sector update: the ASEAN economic community download
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established on 8 August 1967 under the framework of the 'three pillars' of regional co-operation
Clyde & Co hires Singapore aviation team from Kennedys
Clyde & Co has hired a Singapore-based aviation team from Kennedys including legacy Gates & Partners big-hitter David Johnston.
Divorce statistics: divorces costing more even though legal fees have gone down download
A new report from Aviva has found that the average cost of divorcing for each couple has risen 57 per cent, from around £28,000 in 2006 to £43,900.
Restrictive covenant magic download
Many developers are seeking to develop land that is burdened by one or more historic restrictive covenants.
DLA Piper wins Law Firm of the Year accolade at Australian Insurance Industry Awards
DLA Piper has been named Law Firm of the Year at the Australian Insurance Industry Awards hosted by the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance.
BLM sets sights on £100m turnover for current financial year
BLM will be nudging the £100m turnover mark at the financial year-end, according to a "conservative" estimate by managing partner Mike Brown.
Our charity and social enterprise team works with more charities than any other law firm in the country.
Holiday claims
We have a focused team specialising in holiday claims — whether it is holiday illness or something more serious such as an accident.
Bailey-Gibbs, Nicola
Solicitor — team leader, personal injury, Leeds
Insurance Block Exemption — under review download
The European Commission has launched a consultation on the functioning and future of the Insurance Block Exemption Regulation (IBER).
Don't forget the 23 September 2014 deadline to ensure your business associate agreements comply with the Omnibus Final Rule download
Covered entities with business associate agreements that were entered on or before 25 January 2013 must revise their BAAs by 23 September 2014.
Amendments to the Civil Code of the Russian Federation — effective from 1 July 2014 download
The new amendments to the Russian Civil Code will only apply to legal relationships that emerge after 1 July 2014.
Princess of the Stars: typhoon warranties download
On 21 June 2008, the passenger cargo vessel Princess of the Stars was lost in the Philippines after sailing into Typhoon Frank.
Export control and sanctions update: EU restrictive measures against Russia download
On 31 July 2014, the Council of the European Union adopted Regulation (EU) No 833/2014, which implements Council Decision 2014/512/CFSP of 31 July 2014.
Oman — new treaty with Spain: social insurance update download
Oman's newly signed treaty with Spain reduces withholding tax rates and includes a new limitation on benefits clause to prevent treaty shopping.
Dacheng advises New China Life Insurance on real property investment
A Dacheng team has won the bid of serving as legal counsel for New China Life Insurance (NCI) on a large-scale purchase of real property in Xi'an and Taian.
Banking and insurance
Bär & Karrer has an established practice advising banks, securities dealers, insurance and reinsurance companies, and other financial institutions in Switzerland and around the world.
Double trouble for D&O insurers as the UK regulators extend the limitation period applicable to disciplinary investigations weblink
Recent legislative changes in the UK are likely to raise concerns for D&O insurers and their insureds.
Iken helps Ageas ensure effective service delivery
Ageas (UK), which provides insurance services to more than nine million policy holders, is the most recent in-house legal department to choose Iken.
US Bank v Indian Harbor: another blow to the restitution/disgorgement defence download
It is too early to administer last rites to the 'restitution/disgorgement defence', but a compelling opinionsuggests that its expanding use has been severely curtailed.
Circuit court split on ACA could affect employer penalties download
In conflicting opinions released on 22 July, two federal circuits split on whether ACA subsidies are available under a federally operated health insurance exchange.
Compensation for abestosis and mesothelioma: government criticised over mesothelioma review download
The Justice Select Committee has criticised the government for its approach to compensation for asbestos sufferers.
Former US Treasury Department sanctions official Brummond joins DLA Piper
DLA Piper has announced that David J Brummond has joined the firm's insurance and reinsurance practice as of-counsel in the Washington DC office.
Olympic Airlines — PPF entry rules amended weblink
The Court of Appeal has held that Olympic Airlines had not experienced an insolvency event for the purposes of section 121 of the Pensions Act 2004.
A diverse business: Guernsey's insurance sector download
This article summarises the legal framework underpinning Guernsey's successful and diverse insurance sector.
Insurance-linked securities download
These are investment instruments whose value is directly related to insurance risk and whose performance is therefore not correlated with other asset classes.
London's Gherkin building will be irresistible to sovereign wealth funds, says Eversheds
Eversheds has commented on news that London's iconic Gherkin is to be sold.
Eversheds product liability expert comments on the advent of driverless cars on UK roads
According to Eversheds, the advent of driverless cars on UK public roads will make accident diagnosis increasingly difficult.
Navigating your renewal: professional indemnity download
In the last of his two-part series, Mark Carver shows how the PI proposals will benefit insurers more than firms.
Smaller firms at risk from greater PII competition, The Lawyer report reveals
New entrants in the solicitors' professional indemnity insurance (PII) market are targeting UK top 50 firms, but smaller practices are finding it harder to find cover.
Irwin Mitchell and Esure join forces to launch IMe Law ABS
Irwin Mitchell has announced today that it will form ABS venture IMe Law with insurance company Esure.
Parabis reviews future of Bristol and Colchester offices, affecting 41 staff
Parabis has begun a consultation affecting some 41 staff over the future of its Bristol and Colchester offices.
A troubled market: where next for PI? download
Following his two-part series in June, Mark Carver discusses the impact of the SRA reforms on all firms.
Professional indemnity insurance – A survival guide
Navigating the renewals maze for PII has only got harder. We provide a guide to the sector's underwriters while brokers advise on the best line of action
RPC's next challenge
Culture will absorb management's attention now the corporate business is rooted
The importance of a demand — East Ayrshire Council v Zurich Insurance download
In a recent case, the Scottish Court of Session reiterated the importance of acting consistently with agreed procedures for making a demand under a performance bond.
You're getting sued for what? An E&O odyssey (part 13) download
A Montreal-based artist is suing the producer and broadcaster of 30 Vies — on the basis that footage of a graffiti tag in the opening credits constitutes copyright infringement.
Eversheds launches Pathway pension service with Aon Hewitt
Eversheds has announced the launch of Pathway: a service for pension schemes wishing to carry out a buy-in or buyout.
Ontario employers to bear WSIB costs of injured agency employees download
A new Ontario Bill will make employers liable for the WSIB costs of injured agency employees working for them.
Ogier Legal advises on $16bn longevity risk transfer transaction
The Prudential Insurance Company of America recently completed a large longevity risk transfer transaction, having reinsured longevity risk of the BT Pension Scheme.
You're getting sued for what? An E&O odyssey (part 11) download
Giving E&O 'clearance' advice is usually a mix of substantive legal analysis, practical risk assessment and instinct.
Updated legal and regulatory calendars for financial institutions download
With many legal and regulatory developments still to come in 2014, it is important for financial institutions to consider and understand these changes.
InSure — July 2014: FCA review into insurance price-comparison websites; Insurance Bill introduced; and more download
Addleshaw Goddard has published the July 2014 issue of its InSure publication.
Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co announces financial results
Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co has announced the results of its legacy firms Wragge & Co and Lawrence Graham for the financial year to 30 April 2014.
Croatia highlights — income tax law and compulsory health insurance: July 2014 download
This briefing deals with a repeal of the provisions of the Income Tax Law regarding the retroactive taxation of receipt from dividends and profit sharing.
Insurers to boost access to financing in Italy download
On 24 June 2014, Governmental Decree no. 91/2014 (the so-called 'Competitiveness Decree') was published in the Italian Official Gazette.
KPMG says big changes are ahead for banks' accounts following new standard on bad debts
KPMG has commented following the IASB's issuance of the fourth and final version of its new standard on financial instruments accounting — IFRS 9 Financial Instruments.
Be Global — July 2014: new gender equality reporting obligations in Australia; meaning of 'last wage' clarified in UAE; and more weblink
Be Global is DLA Piper's snapshot of key global employment law developments designed to help you identify legal hotspots across your global operations.
Insurance and reinsurance proper and business settlements and Thai floods weblink
Mr Justice Field, sitting in the Commercial Court, has had to consider the meaning of the phrase 'proper and business-like'.
Follow-the-settlements clauses revisited download
In autumn 2011, Thailand suffered severe floods. Among the properties damaged were shops and distribution centres owed by a subsidiary of Tesco.
Are you ready? The Insurance Bill and the Third Parties (Rights against Insurers) Act 2010 may soon become law download
The Insurance Bill, which makes potentially significant changes to the law relating to business insurance, was introduced into Parliament on 17 July 2014.
ACA subsidies in federal exchange threatened download
In Halbig v Burwell, the US court invalidated an IRS regulation that provides premium tax credit subsidies for individuals obtaining health insurance coverage through the federal exchange.
Neil Hudgell Solicitors wins landmark €1.75m for client after airport accident
Neil Hudgell Solicitors has won €1.75m for engineer Hendrik Donkers, who lost two limbs in an accident that took place as he went to service a tyre below an aircraft's nose.
Revenue hits five-year high at Kennedys up to £128.5m
Revenues have hit a five-year high at Kennedys climbing up 10 per cent at the latest year end from £117m to £128.5m.
FCA investigation will enforce that UK insurance is not a commodity, says Eversheds
Eversheds partner Jeremy Irving has commented on news that the FCA is launching an investigation into insurance price comparison websites.
Mesothelioma survival rate and compensation: deaths continue to rise download
New figures released by the Health and Safety Executive have indicated that the number of cancer deaths in the UK caused by asbestos exposure is continuing to rise.
Budget announcements signal that India is open for business, says Eversheds
Eversheds has commented on announcements regarding India's budget for growth.
Hill Dickinson puts 39 jobs into consultation
Hill Dickinson has placed 39 roles within its counter fraud group at risk of redundancy, with the positions now subject to a 30-day consultation period that began yesterday (21 July).
RPC reports first profit drop in five years, revenue up to £84.1m
RPC has reported a 3 per cent drop in net profit from £26.8m to £26m at the end of the latest financial year, alongside a 2.4 per cent rise in turnover from £82.1m to £84.1m.
Real-estate investment in Australia download
Australia offers a platform that allows new foreign investors to embrace the globalisation of real-estate capital with confidence.
Lock-up agreements: ABI publishes best-practice recommendations download
There has been a recent trend towards lock-up agreements being waived by the bank in whose favour they are given before the stated expiry date. The ABI has expressed concerns about the recent increased frequency of such waivers.
New Bermuda registrations are 'steadily increasing', says Conyers' Michael Frith
More insurance companies with a physical presence and long-term plans to grow are forming in Bermuda, according to Conyers Dill & Pearman.
Can hindsight be used when assessing losses in a breach of warranty claim? download
The High Court recently examined principles relevant to the permissibility of using hindsight to value a company for the purposes of a warranty claim.
Weightmans' John Schorah: Everyone in the firm has to focus on efficiency
Weightmans is moving from being a Liverpool insurance firm to a true national commercial player. It just doesn't like to make a fuss.
Top tips for financiers: dealing with a defaulting borrower download
The Dentons restructuring, insolvency and bankruptcy group considers the legal, commercial and practical issues.
DLA Piper represents Florida Blue in its agreement to sell OptaComp
DLA Piper has represented Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Florida (Florida Blue) in its agreement to sell affiliate OptaComp to AmTrust Financial Services.
Croatia: recent news highlights — increase in mobile operator prices and mass termination of subscription agreements; and more download
Karanovic & Nikolic discusses the recent news highlights coming out of Croatia.
Rector Report on reforming reserve financing transactions: much work remains — six developments download
The PBR Task Force held a conference call to discuss comments to the modified recommendations to the report issued by Rector & Associates regarding reserve financing transactions.
The Life Insurance Amendment Act 2014 download
The Life Insurance Amendment Act 2014 came into force last month and has introduced two important changes to Bermuda's Life Insurance Act 1978.
Property Update: underground energy resources; development; flood insurance for domestic properties; and more download
Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co's real-estate experts bring you the latest property law issues and provide action points to help you and your organisation.
European supervisory authorities funding proposal 'not unexpected', says Eversheds
Andrew Henderson has commented on news that the EU's markets, banking and insurance watchdogs could be funded from a direct levy on the sector.
Jonathan Watmough and the RPC learning curve
Last night RPC scooped the top gong at The Lawyer Awards, Law Firm of the Year. Here we revisit an interview with managing partner Jonathan Watmough in which he reflects on how the firm has shaken up its client list to generate growth
Mind the gap — unlocking investment in infrastructure download
One of the biggest economic challenges facing governments and developers around the world is how to meet the growing demand for infrastructure development.
How well is the life insurance industry keeping pace with rapidly changing technology? download
The insurance world has changed significantly, not just incrementally but fundamentally, as the digital revolution transforms the way we interact and do business.
Penningtons Manches pursues group action litigation claim for failed holiday development
Penningtons Manches lawyers have set their sights on the defendant's professional indemnity insurer.
Nightmare on D&O street — five pitfalls that can lead to significant damage to a company weblink
Ince & Co discusses five pitfalls where a lack of awareness and appropriate precaution can lead to significant damage to the company.
Cynamon, David J
Weightmans brings City veteran Mackie on board to build insurance team
Weightmans has hired Edwards Wildman Palmer partner Francis Mackie in a bid to transform its insurance practice.
The SRA proposals: will solicitors benefit? download
In the first of a two-part series, Mark Carver considers the SRA's proposed changes to the professional indemnity market.
Dacheng attorney appointed to Lawyers' Team of Insurance Association of China
Chen Feng, Dacheng senior partner and executive head of the Shanghai office, has been appointed to the Insurance Association of China Lawyers' Team.
Kennedys posts 10 per cent turnover rise to £128.5m
Kennedys has reported a 10 per cent increase in turnover to £128.5m for 2013/14 from £117m in 2012/13.
Luxembourg legal update — June 2014: market abuse; the theft of intangible assets; and more download
Arendt & Medernach has released the June 2014 issue of its Luxembourg legal update.
The new class action law in France and its impact on insurers download
A new French law (the Consumer Act) that took effect on 18 March 2014 allows consumers to bring class actions in France.
Choice of lawyer critical in health and safety investigations — further clarification now provided by the European court download
Insurers cannot fetter your right to instruct your lawyer of choice in the aftermath of an accident.
Draft Insurance Contracts Bill update download
In 2006, the Law Commission of England and Wales and the Scottish Law Commission commenced a review of insurance contract law.
A new insurance regulatory regime for Hong Kong download
Hong Kong has long been celebrated as a leading international financial centre. However, the regulation of its insurance intermediaries has for a significant time lagged behind.
Dacheng advises China Life on the formation of industry investment fund
Dacheng senior partner Yu Hui has won the bid to advise China Life, a life insurance company in China, on the formation of an industry investment fund.
What do dancing hamsters have to do with insurance fraud? download
Leroy Barnes was receiving disability insurance payments while showing off his dance moves as one the dancing hamsters in the Kia commercials.
Clydes launches fifth US office with Orange County base
Clyde & Co has hired two partners from US firm Keesal, Young & Logan to establish its fifth US office in Orange County, Southern California.
CGT, VAT, SDRT... now FTT (financial transaction tax)? download
Tax seems to spawn acronyms and we may, at least in a mainland European (if not the UK) context, soon have to get used to a new one: FTT, or financial transaction tax.
UK Automotive Newsletter: the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations; and more download
Dentons has published its UK Automotive Newsletter for June 2014.
ABI recommendation on lock-up arrangements weblink
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has published its recommended best practice in relation to lock-up agreements.
Clydes' revenue rises 8.5 per cent to £365.1m, predicted PEP at £600k
Clyde & Co has increased its revenues by 8.5 per cent from £336.6m to £365.1m for the 2013/14 year-end.
Age discrimination and insurance: no assurances when it comes to insurance? download
The issue of age discrimination and employee insurance is something employment tribunals may well need to focus on as the number of older workers continues to rise.
DAC Beachcroft reduces office space and puts 65 jobs at risk
DAC Beachcroft has put 65 jobs across the UK and Scotland into consultation that launched on 30 May and will vacate its Fountain Street office in Manchester as a result.
RPC appoints Boswall as new senior partner
RPC's partnership has elected commercial litigation partner Rupert Boswall as its new senior partner with immediate effect.
DWF faces loss of up to 37 jobs in Liverpool
DWF has told its Liverpool-based motor fraud team that a forthcoming restructure will involve placing several fee-earner and secretarial staff into a consultation that could result in the loss of up to 37 jobs.
We predict a riot — consequential losses can be recovered from the police download
The Court of Appeal has ruled that business interruption and other consequential losses can now be recovered from the police after London riots.
Re-reading the Riot Act (again): police liable for consequential losses under the Riot (Damages) Act 1886 download
As if a lecture at the Police Federation Conference from the home secretary wasn't enough, the police have also received the Court of Appeal's reading of the riot act.
Routes to financial redress against banks, investment advisers, insurers, mortgage advisers and product providers download
Susanne Muth discusses some pertinent and recurring themes encountered in the commercial and chancery area of practice.
Chambers USA 2014 recognises Pillsbury individual lawyers and practices
Pillsbury has announced that for 2014, Chambers USA has ranked 86 individual Pillsbury lawyers, with 12 partners recognised in two or more categories for a total of 98 individual lawyer rankings.
BDK forms emergency rapid response team following floods in Serbia and Bosnia
BDK has formed an emergency rapid response team following the devastating floods that hit Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
QBE makes first group GC change in two decades
Insurance group QBE has turned to Australian supermarket chain Woolworths for its new group general counsel, hiring Peter Horton to succeed incumbent Duncan Ramsay who is leaving the organisation after 21 years.
Foresight: thinking ahead — Spring 2014 weblink
Foresight is an easy-to-use legal calendar that outlines major cases, government policy and forthcoming legislation right through to 2017.
Investment Management Update: FCA thematic review of clarity fund charges; ABI guide to unit-linked funds; and more download
Macfarlanes has released the 22 May 2014 issue of its Investment Management Update.
QBE splits advisers into two in new-look roster
Insurance giant QBE has revamped its roster of external advisers for its European operations and created two distinct panels for the first time.
Weightmans promotes first non-lawyer partner after gaining ABS licence
Weightmans has announced the promotion of seven partners, including its first non-lawyer partner, marketing director Sarah-Jane Howitt.
Financial services expert Fiona Ghosh set to join Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard has announced that it has hired financial services expert and partner Fiona Ghosh from Eversheds.
New York Department of Financial Services proposes stricter standards in reviewing life insurance acquisitions download
The New York Department of Financial Services is proposing to extend stricter standards to acquisition deals across the life insurance industry.
Turnover stalls at Hill Dicks, up 0.4 per cent to £111.9m
Hill Dickinson has posted a 0.4 per cent increase in turnover to £111.9m for 2013/14 from £111.5m in the previous year.
Regulators in California and New York show an increased interest in cyber security download
Regulators in California and New York are concerned about the increased risk of cyber attacks on the security of personal information collected by regulated entities.
The great insurance landgrab
The consumer insurance market has seen a fierce tussle for territory. Have the mega-firms won or has the war just begun?
Research reveals unprecedented consolidation in the consumer insurance market
Unprecedented consolidation in the consumer insurance market has halved the number of key industry players in the UK200, The Lawyer's research has revealed.
Croatian health insurance contributions raised and equal opportunity legislation revised download
On 1 April 2014, amendments to the Contributions Act increasing the general rate for health insurance contributions from 13 per cent to 15 per cent came into force.
Legal expenses cover — can you choose your adviser? download
Businesses facing a regulatory investigation need access to specialist lawyers right away.
Clyde & Co raids Linklaters ally Webber Wentzel for dual South Africa launch
Clyde & Co has entered South Africa with a five-lawyer raid on Linkaters' ally Webber Wentzel's insurance and legal liability group.
Kennedys responds to HMRC with 30 per cent cash call to FSPs
Kennedys has called on its fixed-share partners (FSPs) to top up their capital contributions to 30 per cent of their salaries in response to HM Revenue & Customs' (HMRC) changes to partnership taxation.
BLM boss: insurance is transforming and this firm is going global
BLM's senior partner Mike Brown is intent on leading his insurance-focused firm into the big league.
InSure — April 2014: new legislation and consultations download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the new legislation and consultations section of its InSure publication for April 2014.
InSure — April 2014: regulatory developments download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the new regulatory developments section of its InSure publication for April 2014.
InSure — April 2014: general — the FCA Risk Outlook and Business Plan; Flood Re cover; and more download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the general section of its InSure publication for April 2014.
InSure — April 2014: enforcement download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the enforcement section of its InSure publication for April 2014.
InSure — April 2014: data protection download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the data protection section of its InSure publication for April 2014.
Second Law Commission consultation on Insurance Contracts Bill — May 2014 download
The Law Commission and the Scottish Law Commission have conducted another limited consultation regarding draft clauses from their proposed Insurance Contracts Bill.
Avoid potential FCA fines: ensure proper anti-bribery and corruption systems and controls are in place download
The FCA has fined Besso for failing to have proper controls in place to counter the risk that commissions it shared with third parties could be used for corrupt purposes.
Berrymans Lace Mawer scraps brand as HBM Sayers merger goes live
Berrymans Lace Mawer has scrapped its brand in favour of BLM as the insurance firm completes the takeover of Scottish firm HBM Sayers today.
Putative class action in the Southern District of New York challenges use of 'shadow insurance' download
A new putative class action suit alleges that the use of 'shadow insurance' transactions violates New York Insurance Law section 4226(a)(4).
Clyde & Co focuses on UK with nine-strong promotions round
Clyde & Co has made up five UK-based lawyers to partner as part of a nine-strong promotions round to take effect on Thursday (1 May).
Crawford & Co head of legal: Principle character
Taking the lead on compliance matters to stay one step ahead of the regulator 'scalp-hunters' is a priority for Chris Pinney at loss adjuster Crawford
Just a fishing trip for policy details or a valid disclosure request? weblink
What is an insured defendant obliged to disclose about their private insurance arrangements?
ILO names Hogan Lovells as Client Choice Firm Winner for Italy
Hogan Lovells has been named as the 2014 International Law Office (ILO) Client Choice Firm Winner for Italy.
The Ombudsman cometh — Financial Services Ombudsman in Jersey download
The appointment of a Financial Services Ombudsman in Jersey came a step closer on 1 April 2014 when the States of Jersey approved the Financial Services Ombudsman (Jersey) Law 201.
Legal 500 EMEA recognises Wierzbowski Eversheds in a number of fields
In Legalease's latest Legal 500 EMEA directory, Wierzbowski Eversheds has earned a number of recommendations.
ABI publishes best-practice approach to lock-ups download
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has published its recommended best-practice approach to lock-up agreements.
Eight firms line up against Osborne Clarke over £3.3m Savile compensation scheme
Eight firms including Slater & Gordon, Irwin Mitchell and Hodge Jones & Allen are gearing up to battle Osborne Clarke over claims for compensation from the £3.3m estate of former TV presenter Jimmy Savile.
Conyers advises on the licensing of Watford Re as a Class 4 insurer
Conyers Dill & Pearman has advised on the licensing by the Bermuda Monetary Authority of Watford Re, a multi-line Bermuda reinsurance company.
Binder Grösswang wins Austrian Law Firm of the Year recognition at IFLR awards
Binder Grösswang has been recognised as Austrian Law Firm of the Year 2014 at International Financial Law Review's (IFLR) annual European awards in London.
DLA Piper lawyers feature in 'Rising Stars' list
DLA Piper has announced that four lawyers have been named to Law360's 'Rising Stars' list.
Financial services newsletter — trade reporting obligations from 12 February 2014; standard form for EMIR reporting; and more download
Eversheds has released the latest version of its financial services newsletter.
Video: the impact of the 2014 election on US policy and sectors weblink
In this video interview, Washington DC public policy and regulation partner Mike Zolandz discusses how the 2014 mid-term election will affect US policy.
Conyers promotes six attorneys to role of partner or director
Conyers Dill & Pearman has promoted six attorneys to the role of partner or director.
New ABI guidance download
The ABI has issued guidance on lock-up agreements, in particular in response to concerns over the extent to which lock-ups are waived during the lock-up periods.
Standing alongside your insured — when an insurer will have a common interest download
In Marshall v Prescott, the NSW Court of Appeal considered the issue of common interest privilege and when insurers and insureds are likely to have a 'self-same' interest in proceedings.
Minter Ellison submission to the Financial System Inquiry download
We welcome the Financial System Inquiry (FSI) and the opportunity to offer detailed insights and recommendations to the inquiry via this written submission.
Happy ever after? Morgan Cole and Blake Lapthorn get hitched
Morgan Cole and Blake Lapthorn have finally decided that three's a crowd and, after months of flirting with Boyes Turner, gone ahead with a traditional two-way merger.
Mesothelioma Bill hasn't done enough download
Much has been written and said about the rights and wrongs of the new Mesothelioma Bill, passed by the government earlier this year.
Flooding and development — risks and tools download
This article is intended to offer developer clients an insight into the current state of play with flooding policy.
Hogan Lovells advises on VIF reinsurance of Mediterráneo Vida's life insurance portfolio
Hogan Lovells has advised SCOR on the VIF reinsurance of the individual life insurance business portfolio of Mediterráneo Vida, owned by Banco Sabadell.
Insurance and Reinsurance Newsletter: April 2014 — Italy: new regulations on complaints management; and more download
On 1 April 2014, the draft measure containing amendments to ISVAP regulation no. 24 on complaints handling was published on the IVASS website.
Financial reforms for the Shanghai (pilot) free-trade zone: slowly coming into focus download
The China (Shanghai) pilot free-trade zone was launched in September 2013 with the promise of significant reforms in a number of areas.
The definition of risk is constantly changing. You need lawyers who know your business and know how to mitigate your exposure.
Holiday accident claims
Our dedicated and highly experienced team of lawyers can help you pursue a claim at no financial risk to you wherever you are in the world.
Recent insurance cases — spring 2014 download
This briefing from Eversheds focuses on three recent insurance cases, including Frank McHugh v Shelbourne O'Brien Ltd Trading As the Stag's Head.
Senators make opening bid, introduce TRIA bill download
With the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act set to expire at the end of 2014 unless extended, senators have introduced a bill to extend it.
The travel law team specialises in providing fast, innovative and effective solutions for travel industry clients in this complex and ever-changing area of law.
Anderson, Christopher
Partner — Guernsey
Friedlaender, Konrad
Partner — Guernsey
HFW becomes first UK firm to relocate leader to Asia as senior partner moves to Singapore
Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW) senior partner Richard Crump has relocated permanently to Singapore in a move that underlines the firm's ambitious plans to grow its Asia practice.
Le Cras, Karen
Partner — Guernsey
Some comfort for accountants following the Court of Appeal decision in Mehjoo weblink
Accountants can draw some comfort following the recent Court of Appeal decision in Mehjoo v Harben Barker.
M&A Weekly Update: when is there a duty of good faith between contracting parties; prospectuses: acceptable languages; and more download
Two cases decided last year raised concerns that the English judiciary were becoming more open to implying a duty of good faith into commercial contracts.
Superstorm Sandy and Con Edison's power shutdown: lessons from Johnson Gallagher download
A recent Southern District of New York decision considered coverage for a policyholder's losses caused by ConEd's Bowling Green Network outage.
Chambers Global 2014 ranks Ince & Co as top-tier firm for global shipping litigation
Ince & Co (including Incisive Law) has been ranked by Chambers Global 2014 in 23 legal practice areas.
Allen & Overy members attend ABA meeting of insurance coverage lawyers
Joanna Page and Richard Smith of Allen & Overy recently attended the ABA's meeting of insurance coverage lawyers, which is held annually in Arizona in March.
At IBB Solicitors, our specialist team will help you to resolve your disputes quickly and easily — often without the need for court intervention.
Commercial dispute resolution
We see ourselves as both your legal and business partner and work with you to ensure that litigation doesn't become an unwelcome distraction from your daily operations.
Hogan Lovells is named overall Client Choice Firm Winner for Italy by ILO
Hogan Lovells has announced that it has been named as the 2014 International Law Office (ILO) Client Choice Firm Winner for Italy.
Do you need to be a registered (tax) financial adviser from 1 July 2014? download
The Tax Agent Services Act 2009 has been amended, heralding significant changes to the way financial planners are regulated.
CMA dispenses final remedies for private healthcare market weblink
The announcement by the Competition and Markets Authority (formerly the Competition Commission) is the culmination of a two-year investigation into the private healthcare market.
Accountability — April 2014: when can you bring a court claim that has already been the subject of a decision by the FOS? download
According to a Court of Appeal decision, only where the claim arises out of a completely different set of facts or where the complainant has rejected the FOS decision.
Slaughters prepares for FCA battle over insurance probe leaks
Slaughter and May has been instructed by a group of investors seeking compensation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), following leaked inaccurate reports of an investigation into the insurance markets.
Banking and finance
GRATA Law Firm's banking and finance group is a leading legal counsel in the areas of capital markets, project finance and infrastructure projects development and financial transactions
Dispute resolution and litigation
Our pre-eminent litigation practice in the Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey advises clients on the full spectrum of contentious, semi-contentious and advisory work.
At Carey Olsen, our market-leading insurance team offers clients a depth of experience that sets us apart from other offshore law firms.
Investment funds and private equity
We advise on all fund structures including open and closed-ended, limited partnerships, unit trusts and companies in the BVI, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey.
Allen & Overy advises Old Mutual on the sale of Skandia Germany and Skandia Austria
Allen & Overy has advised Old Mutual on the sale of Skandia Germany and Skandia Austria, part of Old Mutual Wealth, to a Cinven and Hannover Re acquisition vehicle.
Duties under a follow clause: lead underwriters left in the dark? download
The Commercial Court has held that a 'follow clause' had the effect of binding a company to a settlement agreed by Lloyd's syndicates under a separate insurance policy.
Insurance business transfer schemes in Jersey download
This briefing provides an introduction to the factors that determine whether a Jersey insurance business transfer scheme is required.
Changes to distance selling rules weblink
The Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 come into effect from 13 June 2014.
InSure — March 2014: 2014 Budget; the FCA's new competition role; and more download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the March 2014 edition of its InSure publication, which rounds up developments affecting the insurance industry.
Eversheds successfully appeals High Court tax decision for HCC
Eversheds has successfully appealed a High Court decision that had serious implications in relation to the scope of the duty of care owed by accountants to their clients.
Calderbank offers revisited weblink
A recent Court of Appeal decision suggests that it may not be necessary for a defendant to make a Part 36 offer to secure full costs protection at trial.
Another fine mess — Mitchell, CPR 3.10 and the service rules weblink
In Integral Petroleum SA v SCC-Finanz AG, late service of particulars of claim to an email address not authorised for service was treated as valid under CPR 3.10.
A round-up of some recent cases — March 2014 weblink
The issue of a claim form, and not the service of it, begins proceedings and gives the court jurisdiction to order costs of and incidental to those proceedings.
Genuine demands of PPI customers must be ascertained download
Insurance intermediaries should ask open and fair questions of customers to ensure they understand their genuine demands.
FCA investigation could lead to rethink of UK insurance market culture, says Eversheds
The Financial Conduct Authority is set to launch an investigation into 30 million insurance policies sold since the 1970s.
Finance Update — March 2014: boot camp — performance bond problems download
Performance bonds are widely used in a variety of commercial agreements from construction contracts to insolvency business sales.
Allen & Overy advises ICI Pension Fund on largest UK pension scheme insurance policy
Allen & Overy has advised the trustee of the ICI Pension Fund on the largest-ever bulk annuity insurance policy (or buy-in) arranged by a UK pension scheme.
Snakes and ladders: damages, loss of a chance and remoteness weblink
The claimant, Wellesley, retained Withers to draft an agreement with a Bahrain bank, Addax. Addax was to invest £2.5m or $5m in exchange for a share of the business.
Healthcare reform update: employers must begin reporting details of health coverage to IRS download
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act imposes significant new reporting requirements on employers providing self-insured group health coverage to their employees.
Is Berrymans kicking into action at last?
Last week's union with Scottish insurance outfit HBM Sayers was Berrymans Lace Mawer's (BLM) first merger since 1997 (17 March 2014). Is this the start of a new acquisitive era for the firm?
IASB moving towards an international accounting standard download
The IASB has brought the publication of an IFRS closer to realisation. But critical decisions remain to be addressed.
KPMG IAIG survey focuses on potential costs and benefits of global regulatory change
KPMG member firms have conducted a survey of Internationally Active Insurance Groups (IAIGs) on the possible costs and potential benefits of global regulatory change.
Minter Ellison launches eighth edition of its Insurance Contracts Act Handbook
Following a number of amendments to Australia's Insurance Contracts Act, Minter Ellison has launched the eighth edition of its Insurance Contracts Act Handbook.
An American policyholder in London: English choice-of-law clauses in US insurance policies download
There are many proponents of having complex insurance disputes resolved in London under English law.
Water, water everywhere: flood damage and leased properties — whose risk? weblink
As the flood waters recede the key question for those who own or occupy affected properties is who is responsible for fixing the damage?
Shamrock Shake: St Patrick's Day earthquake in Los Angeles is a reminder to check your property insurance policy download
The St Patrick's Day earthquake serves as a reminder to be informed about your current and future residential or commercial earthquake insurance coverage.
Morgan Cole and Blake Lapthorn to create £72m firm post July merger
Blake Lapthorn is set to merge with Morgan Cole on 1 July 2014 to create a firm with a combined turnover of £72m.
Wierzbowski Eversheds advises the Insurance Guarantee Fund on multilateral agreement
Wierzbowski Eversheds has advised the Insurance Guarantee Fund on a multilateral agreement on gathering and providing access to information in the Polish insurance industry.
Can you pay your litigation bills? You might be required to show proof... weblink
In a group action for damages for defects in breast implants, the claimants were concerned about the financial position of the lead defendant.
NCTM promotes four to salary partners
NCTM has announced the internal promotion of four professionals who have excelled in their various areas of the law in the last few years.
Six made up at HFW in reduced promotions round
Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW) has made up six to its partnership in a round of promotions that will be effective from 1 April.
Berrymans enters Scottish market with HBM Sayers merger
Berrymans Lace Mawer (BLM) and Scotland's HBM Sayers are to merge on 1 May to form a £100m risk and insurance firm.
Outer Temple Chambers' Gerard McDermott acts as leading counsel in cross-border case
Gerard McDermott QC of Outer Temple Chambers has acted as leading counsel for the claimants in a significant cross-border case.
Nabarro advises Hiscox on second return of capital in a year
The corporate team at Nabarro has advised Hiscox on a £200m return of capital to its shareholders.
FCA's intervention raises challenges for the insurance add-ons industry, says Eversheds
Chris Busby and Jeremy Irving from Eversheds have commented on news that the UK FCA is set to intervene in the insurance add-ons market.
Aerospace insurance lawyer Vanessa Leigh joins DLA Piper's aviation practice
DLA Piper has appointed aerospace insurance lawyer Vanessa Leigh as a legal director in its aviation practice.
Insurance policies: don't lose out through late notification download
Late notification can have disastrous consequences, with insurers potentially being entitled to refuse to pay the claim.
Law Commission consults on Insurance Contracts Bill — February 2014 download
The Law Commission is conducting a limited consultation on the first available draft clauses from its proposed Insurance Contracts Bill.
Schoenherr's insurance practice group advises many of Austria's and Europe's leading insurers on transactions in the insurance sector, as well as distribution structures, product design and all related regulatory and tax matters for life, non-life, and reinsurance business.
Dacheng advises real-estate subsidiary of Pingan Insurance on acquisition
Dacheng has acted as legal adviser for Shenzhen Pingan Real Estate Co on its acquisition of a logistics property project from LaSalle Investment Management Co.
Allianz launches legal business with new ABS licence
Allianz has been granted an ABS licence for the launch of ALP Law in conjunction with catastrophic injury firm Serious Law.
End of DB contracting out: 'protected persons' safe from statutory override weblink
The government has now confirmed that 'protected persons' will not be prejudiced by the statutory override contained in the Pensions Bill.
InCredit — March 2014: insurance download
The insurance section of the March edition of InCredit features a guide to CMCs and complaints handling and discusses the FCA's comment on the proposed PPI time limit.
Court of Appeal gets tough on solicitors acting for lenders — 28 February 2014 download
It is common in mortgage fraud for lenders to lose advances where their solicitors are innocently duped by fraudsters.
FAQs for entrepreneurs — when to talk to a lawyer and what questions to ask download
Riaz Karamali, a partner in Pillsbury's Silicon Valley and San Francisco offices who represents emerging growth companies, answers some common questions innovators face.
Policy and practice of equal importance for FCA compliance weblink
Andrew Northage considers another case in which the FCA took enforcement action against inadequate anti-bribery procedures — even where no bribery had occurred.
Forex: the next big scandal to hit banks after Libor manipulation? weblink
The last two years have seen Libor manipulation or rate fixing at the centre of a scandal that emerged in the US and crossed the Atlantic to the UK.
Accountants: the PII implication of providing legal services weblink
What sort of PII issues are likely to face practitioners contemplating accreditation and their insurers?
Philadelphia's Cozen O'Connor targets City insurance market with double hire
Philadelphia-based insurance firm Cozen O'Connor has refocused its London strategy with partner hires from Edwards Wildman Palmer and RPC.
Travel team at Penningtons Manches secures favourable judgment in High Court
Penningtons Manches has secured a favourable judgment for a British family following a High Court trial to determine who was responsible for a fatal road traffic accident in Portugal in 2010.
Insurance-linked securities: cat bond, cat fight weblink
In 2013, ILS products became more popular and, importantly, products which traditional P&C reinsurers started to actively engage with and underwrite.
InSure — February 2014: BIBA's budget statement, IMD2 amendments, Insurance Contracts Bill and more download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the February 2014 edition of InSure, which centres on developments affecting the insurance industry.
Top 10 tips — insurance requirements download
Gateley looks at some of the themes that commonly crop up in transactions when negotiating insurance provisions in finance documents.
International Law at Work — February 2014: UAE employment law update download
In the UAE, there are two separate jurisdictions that need to be considered. This update will focus on some recent developments in both jurisdictions.
What duties does a lead underwriter owe to following underwriters when settling a claim? download
The issue of what duties a lead underwriter owes to the following market when settling a claim was considered by the commercial court in the context of a 'follow clause'.
In K2 Investment, NY high court reverses itself, confirms well-established case law download
The New York Court of Appeals, in K2 Investment Group, LLC v American Guarantee & Liability Insurance Company, has vacated its own prior decision.
IRS releases final regulations on 'Pay or Play' download
On 10 February 2014, the IRS published long-awaited regulations on the employer shared responsibility provisions under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Co-insurance — interpretation of a follow clause download
In San Evans Maritime v Aigaion Insurance, the court held that the defendant following underwriter was required to follow a settlement reached by lead underwriters under a follow clause.
Wragge & Co advises Mobeus on its £6m investment in Entanet management buyout
The private equity team at Wragge & Co has advised Mobeus Equity Partners on a £6m investment in the management buyout of Entanet International.
New LLP tax rules download
HMRC has published updated guidance on the new 'salaried member' rules — the rules that will treat members of an LLP as an employee for tax purposes in certain circumstances.
APRA's new regime on risk management download
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) recently released a package of governance measures for banks, and general and life insurance companies.
'Firms must put the interests of customers first' warns the FCA as it hands down its largest ever retail conduct fine weblink
Failings by insurance intermediary HomeServe have resulted in the company being fined £30.6m, the largest amount ever imposed by the Financial Conduct Authority for the retail sector.
Hogan Lovells advises Qatar Insurance Company on acquisition of Antares Holdings
Hogan Lovells has advised Qatar Insurance Company on its acquisition of Antares Holdings, a Lloyd's specialist insurer and reinsurer.
European Finance Litigation Review — February 2014: litigation concerning banks' disclosure requirements and more download
This quarterly edition of the European Finance Litigation Review contains coverage of the most interesting cases and developments from across Allen & Overy's European network.
HomeServe: further insight into regulatory expectations of senior management download
The recently published FCA sanction against HomeServe Membership provides further insight into the regulator's expectations of senior management.
Hill Dickinson mulls second cash call in 12 months post HMRC tax change
Hill Dickinson is consulting on its second cash call in 12 months in response to HM Revenue & Customs' (HMRC) change to the partnership taxation rules, which will come into effect on 6 April.
Gazivoda, Jelena
Senior partner
Antitrust Matters — February 2014 download
DLA Piper has published the first edition of its global competition newsletter, Antitrust Matters.
Hogan Lovells appoints healthcare litigation partner Michael Maddigan to LA office
Hogan Lovells has continued the expansion of its Los Angeles office with the addition of healthcare litigation partner Michael Maddigan.
There may be circumstances when disclosure of a party's insurance arrangements can be ordered by the court download
A group of litigants has been granted an order for disclosure of a defendant's insurance arrangements in respect of the defendant's potential liability in the litigation.
Pillsbury partners Ericson and Galeno appear in BTI's Client Service All-Stars 2014 listing
Business consulting firm BTI has named Pillsbury partners Bruce Ericson and Maria Galeno to its Client Service All-Stars list.
2013 insurance industry year-end review and forecast for 2014 download
DLA Piper analyses some of the key commercial and regulatory developments of the past year and provides some prognostications regarding the coming year(s).
Ince & Co launches redundancy consultation with 10 fee-earners
Ince & Co has launched a redundancy consultation with 10 shipping and finance fee-earners and six secretarial staff.
Court construes in-transit loss clause in voyage charterparty — Trafigura Beheer BV v Navigazione Montanari Spa (Valle di Cordoba) weblink
The Commercial Court has recently considered the meaning of the expression 'in-transit loss' in a voyage charterparty.
Banking and finance
JPM's banking and finance clients include major banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions, as well as corporate local borrowers and lenders.
BTI Consulting Group names DLA Piper partners as 2014 Client Service All-Stars
DLA Piper has announced that James Brogan, Paul Hall, Joseph Kernen and Norman Leon have been recognised in a BTI Consulting Group report.
A bridge to Africa: Morocco is the place to be for companies and firms looking to gain a foothold in Africa download
Because of its undeniable political stability due to its monarchy, Morocco is uniquely positioned to play the geostrategic role of a regional power.
Berrymans picks up two partners from Greenwoods
Berrymans Lace Mawer (BLM) has picked up two property insurance partners and two fee-earners from Greenwoods, less than a year after the firm merged with Parabis.
Hogan Lovells advises on $128m aerospace sector acquisition of APPH
Hogan Lovells has advised Héroux-Devtek on the $128m acquisition of APPH and APPH Wichita (together APPH), subsidiaries of BBA Aviation.
Don't get caught in the net — the main issues surrounding net contribution clauses download
The purpose of a net contribution clause is to limit the liability of the person or persons responsible to an amount that would be just and equitable for them to pay.
Stephenson Harwood hires partner in marine and international trade practice
Stephenson Harwood has appointed Michael Kim as a partner in the marine and international trade practice.
InCredit — February 2014: insurance download
The insurance section of InCredit focuses on the ABI good-practice guide for mobile phone insurance providers and more.
District court finds that insurance premium excise tax does not apply to retrocession transactions download
The federal excise tax on insurance and reinsurance premiums does not apply to retrocession insurance transactions.
Bulletin — Winter 2014: Commercial & Chancery download
No5 Chambers has released the first edition of its Commercial & Chancery Bulletin for 2014.
Hogan Lovells partners named as 'All-Stars'
A number of Hogan Lovells partners have been listed as All-Stars in the 2014 BTI Client Services All-Star report.
Financial promotion: an indication of FCA's new approach to intervention download
The FCA has published a voluntary application for the imposition of a requirement by price comparison website MoneySuperMarket.com.
Pension risk — market update download
Last year was a ground-breaking year. The longevity swap market broke previous records with £8.9bn of liabilities being passed to providers.
Dr Stephan Heckenthaler and Dr Markus Uitz join Binder Grösswang as partners
Binder Grösswang has appointed attorneys Dr Stephan Heckenthaler and Dr Markus Uitz as partners in the firm, effective 1 February 2014.
Net debt more than doubles at RPC
Net debt at Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) has increased by £2.8m according to the firm's latest LLP filings, from £2.3m to £5.1m.
Parabis picks up Pannone affinity group head Jabbari
Former Pannone Connect2Law chief executive David Jabbari has joined Parabis to launch a regional network of firms.
Stay up to date with export controls download
Numerous recent developments in export controls highlight the importance of staying up to date from both a reputational and regulatory perspective.
Iran sanctions update: EU suspends certain sanctions for six months weblink
In this update, Ince & Co sets out the latest developments regarding the EU sanctions against Iran.
Insurance and Reinsurance Newsletter: Italy — January 2014 download
DLA Piper Italy has published the January 2014 issue of the Insurance and Reinsurance Newsletter.
Harrison, PPI and unfair relationship revisited download
The Court of Appeal has revisited the issue of unfair relationship in payment protection insurance (PPI) claims where the payment of commission was not disclosed.
Clyde & Co adds construction partner from RPC
Clyde & Co has bulked up its construction disputes team with the addition of longstanding RPC partner Richard Moody in London.
Healthy competition — OFT refers private healthcare market to CC for investigation weblink
The OFT can make such a reference if it has reasonable grounds for suspecting that competition for the supply or acquisition of goods or services is not working effectively.
Parabis partner Direct Line granted ABS licence
Insurance giant Direct Line Group (DLG) has become the latest new entrant to the legal services market, with the announcement today that the Solicitors Regulatory Association (SRA) has authorised it as an ABS.
Keoghs puts 41 jobs at risk
Bolton-headquartered insurance firm Keoghs has put 41 staff at risk of redundancy following a restructuring of its counter-fraud team.
Reforms to the insurance sector in India: the wait continues download
Lack of political consensus has led to yet another hiatus in the passage of the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill into law.
Nuclear energy policy update: key recommendations from the Conference on Nuclear Third-Party Liability and Insurance download
The Conference on Nuclear Third Party Liability and Insurance took place on 20–21 January 2014.
New year, new challenges — litigation and compliance weblink
Compliance will be the watchword for 2014 and beyond. Adhere to deadlines/court timetables and all should be fine.
The legal landscape — so that was 2013, what will 2014 bring? weblink
Twelve months is a long time. It is probably overstating it to say that the profession has seen unprecedented change, but it has been both dramatic and volatile.
InCredit — January 2014: insurance download
The insurance section of InCredit includes information on the Ministry of Justice's PPI bulletin.
The Bermuda Form — actual or alleged liability? download
Addleshaw Goddard reports on a Commercial Court judgment in relation to two preliminary issues arising in the context of AstraZeneca Insurance Co's claim against its excess reinsurers.
Furious firms threaten action over "botched" SRA insurance list
Law firms named for allegedly not obtaining indemnity insurance have attacked the profession's regulator – with some understood to be considering legal action – claiming the process was unfair and slapdash.
Review of 2013: a claims handling perspective weblink
This article examines some of the different types of claim or medico-legal query Mills & Reeve received in its Claims Handling Unit or out-of-hours service during 2013.
DAC Beachcroft launches in New York
DAC Beachcroft (DACB) has made its first move into the US through the launch of a representative office in New York.
DLA Piper adds three new member firms to its Africa group
DLA Piper's Africa group has expanded in northern, southern and eastern Africa with the addition of three new member firms.
Client briefing: flood insurance download
The government and UK insurers have agreed to develop a not-for-profit flood fund in the form of a mutual reinsurance company.
Insurance and the polar vortex: recovering losses from the big chill of 2014 download
The first two weeks of 2014 ushered in an extraordinary weather disaster affecting most of the US, causing property damage and business interruption.
KWM set to advise Medibank Private on scoping study into potential privatisation
KWM has secured a key role advising Medibank Private on the Australian federal government's scoping study into the potential privatisation of Medibank.
Insurance and Reinsurance Review of 2013 download
Taylor Wessing's Insurance and Reinsurance Review summarises the key case law developments in insurance and reinsurance throughout 2013.
JFSC guidance on Jersey insurance business transfer schemes download
The JFSC has published a guidance note relating to insurance business transfer schemes under the Insurance Business (Jersey) Law 1996.
Court gets in line with majority of jurisdictions on faulty products coverage download
A recent decision from an appellate court in Pennsylvania is good news for policyholders who manufacture products.
Bakers loses two partners to US rivals in Hong Kong
Baker & McKenzie has seen two of its Hong Kong partners leaving to join US rivals Dechert and Troutman Sanders respectively.
Popovici Nitu & Asociatii advises construction company on a new €60m syndicated loan
Popovici Nitu & Asociatii has advised Romanian construction company Hidroconstructia on a new €60m syndicated loan.
Broker firm fined £1.8m for failing to manage bribery and corruption risks download
The FCA has fined JLT Speciality £1,876,000 for failing to manage bribery and corruption risks created by overseas payments, in breach of Principle 3 of PRIN.
No express provision = no recovery for landlord — ensuring payment for insurance download
The Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) has held that the landlord of a flat let on a long residential lease could not recover the insurance premium from the tenant.
FSB recognises Bermuda, BVI and Cayman for strong adherence to regulatory standards download
In a report released last month, the FSB provided an update on its initiative to encourage global adherence to international standards.
Keoghs joins BLM, DAC Beachcroft and DWF on revamped Allianz claims panel
Allianz Insurance has appointed DAC Beachcroft, Berrymans Lace Mawer (BLM), DWF and Keoghs to its claims legal panel for England and Wales.
DLA Piper's Israel-related transactions in 2013 exceed aggregate value of $2bn
DLA Piper advised on more than 20 significant inbound and outbound US transactions that closed last year on behalf of Israeli institutional investors and companies.
Eversheds advises Virtusa on acquisition of TradeTech Consulting Scandinavia
Eversheds' Swedish office has advised Virtusa Corporation, which has acquired Swedish company TradeTech Consulting Scandinavia.
Goodman Derrick's technology group advises in relation to three fundraisings
During 2013, Goodman Derrick's technology group had lead roles in relation to three equity fundraisings for technology companies.
Sedgwick hires DLA Piper insurance litigator
DLA Piper insurance litigation partner David Murphy has left the firm to join US-firm Sedgwick in London.
New York state court allows policyholder to pay minimum deductible for flood loss download
This decision may prove valuable to policyholders in their disputes over deductibles.
ECJ endorses insured's freedom of choice weblink
The ECJ has ruled that insurers cannot restrict the freedom of choice of insured persons by insisting on their using panel law firms or the insurer's in-house staff.
KPMG International appoints Brian Daly as global insurance tax lead
KPMG International has appointed Brian Daly as global insurance tax lead. He also sits on the company's Global Financial Services leadership team.
Eversheds represents AB SEB Trygg Liv in Swedish Supreme Court dispute
Hans Forssell and Göran Johansson from Eversheds Stockholm represented claimants AB SEB Trygg Liv in a dispute in the Swedish Supreme Court.
Back to 2013 — Luxembourg newsflash download
Arendt and Medernach has released a short flashback intended to enable you to keep track of the main legal trends that marked 2013.
DAC Beachcroft names new Manchester head
DAC Beachcroft appointed professional negligence partner Ian McConkey as Manchester head from the 1 January following an uncontested election for the position.
Conyers announces relocation of Paul Smith to Cayman litigation practice
Conyers Dill & Pearman has announced that Paul Smith has relocated to the law firm's Cayman Islands office to further support its litigation practice.
SRA labelled "shambolic" over PII renewal process
Brokers have raised fresh concerns over the Solicitors Regulation Authority's (SRA) handling of the professional indemnity insurance (PII) renewal process after the regulator admitted it had lost track of some uninsured firms.
Allen & Overy advises on debt financing of water and power project in Kuwait
Allen & Overy has advised NEXI and a syndicate of commercial banks on the $1.43bn debt financing of the Az Zour North IWPP.
Astrazeneca v XL Insurance A3/2013/0824 download
Astrazeneca Insurance v XL Bermuda and Ace Bermuda was the first case in which the English courts had been asked to consider the proper interpretation of a 'Bermuda Form' policy.
Clifford Chance set to fight £130m negligence claim
Clifford Chance is facing a £130m negligence claim after being joined to a suit brought by JP Morgan against German transport provider BVG.
FIO report on the modernisation of insurance regulation download
The Department of the Treasury's Federal Insurance Office has published How to Modernize and Improve the System of Insurance Regulation in the United States.
NAIC 2013 Fall National Meeting — points of interest to insurance industry clients download
This client update highlights some of the developments from the Fall National Meeting held by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
2014 presents opportunities for prudent investors download
Corporates and investors have access to capital again and are more willing to consider growth by acquisition. The financial services sector has been particularly active.
Ghost of Christmas Past — directors' defence costs and the Bridgecorp litigation download
The Supreme Court of New Zealand has set aside the Court of Appeal's decision regarding the effect of statutory charges on the payment of defence costs by D&O insurers.
InSure — 12 December 2013 weblink
Addleshaw Goddard has released this month's round-up of developments affecting the insurance industry.
Ince & Co lawyers recognised in Best Lawyers in the UK
The third edition of Best Lawyers in the UK has recognised 21 Ince & Co lawyers, with firm representation in the commodities, insurance, litigation and shipping categories.
CC investigation: private motor insurance and MFNs download
E-commerce businesses should take a look at the discussion of MFN clauses in the Competition Commission's Provisional Findings Report in its private motor insurance investigation.
Debevoise and Linklaters help AIA forge Asia partnership with Citibank
Debevoise & Plimpton and Linklaters have played lead roles advising the $4bn (£2.4bn) landmark bancassurance partnership between AIA and Citibank in the Asia-Pacific region.
DWF adds 10 to partnership
DWF has made up ten new partners in its latest round of promotions, with the insurance group taking the bulk of promotions.
Minter Ellison advises IAG on acquisition of insurance underwriting businesses
Minter Ellison has advised IAG on its acquisition of the Australian and New Zealand insurance underwriting businesses of Wesfarmers.
Merger enables Mills & Reeve to increase its insolvency and recovery team
Mills & Reeve has merged with George Davies Solicitors, increasing its national insolvency and recovery team by 50 per cent.
InSure — November 2013: new legislation and consultations download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the November 2013 edition of InSure. This section focuses on new legislation and consultations.
InCredit — December 2013: insurance download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the December 2013 edition of InCredit. This section focuses on insurance.
DLA Piper advises liability adjuster Garwyn on its acquisition by Davies Group
DLA Piper has advised the shareholders of Garwyn Group Ltd, a specialist liability adjuster, on its acquisition by insurance claims service provider Davies Group Ltd.
InSure — November 2013: general update download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the November 2013 edition of InSure. This section is a general update.
InCredit — November 2013: insurance download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the November 2013 edition of InCredit. This section focuses on insurance.
InSure — November 2013: enforcement download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the November 2013 edition of InSure. This section focuses on enforcement.
InSure — November 2013: data protection download
Addleshaw Goddard has released the November 2013 edition of InSure. This section focuses on data protection.
Conyers Dill Pearman recognised as a top-tier firm by Legal 500 weblink
Conyers Dill & Pearman has been named among the leading law firms in Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands.
Rathbone Brothers Plc v Novae Corporate: underwriting judgment of Mr Justice Burton download
The court determined a number of issues about the nature and effect of a policy of professional liability insurance.
Ó hOisín, Colm
Senior counsel
Daly SC, Marcus F
Senior counsel
Survey on the sale of insurance policies in conjunction with non-insurance products download
IVASS has launched a survey on the sale of insurance policies (typically in the form of group policies) in conjunction with non-insurance products or services.
(Re)insurance Alert — Equitas Ltd and Another v Walsham Brothers & Co Ltd download
The Commercial Court has ruled on a number of key legal issues concerning the duties owed by Lloyd's brokers to remit funds promptly to clients and reinsurers.
Commercial Court clarifies the position on follow settlement clauses for retrocessionaires download
On 6 November 2013, the Commercial Court handed down its judgment in Tokio Marine Europe Insurance Ltd v Novae Corporate Underwriting Ltd.
TLT raids Irwin Mitchell in Manchester for 30-strong team including six partners
Irwin Mitchell has lost six partners and a team of 24 lawyers and support staff after being raided by TLT in Manchester.
Ince & Co's Asia insurance group wins Claims Legal Services Provider of the Year award
Ince & Co's insurance group in Asia has won the Claims Legal Services Provider of the Year award at the inaugural Claims Awards Asia.
KWM advises PAMC on formation of insurance asset-backed scheme
KWM has advised Pacific Asset Management Co (PAMC) on setting up an asset-backed scheme for a special funding project through raising insurance funds.
Hogan Lovells hires competition lawyer Mark Jones to its competition practice
Mark Jones will be joining Hogan Lovells' antitrust, competition and economic regulation (ACER) practice as a partner in the London office.
New York insurers' investments in firms engaged in Iranian energy sector activities treated as 'nonadmitted' download
New York has enacted Chapter 481 of the Laws of 2013, which adds a new section 1415 to the New York Insurance Law effective 11 February 2014.
Hill Dickinson optimistic as revenues rise 6 per cent at half year
Hill Dickinson has posted a 6 per cent rise in revenue for the first half of 2013/14 up from £51.9m to £54.9m.
Lyons Davidson makes 50 redundancies in wake of AA tie-up
Bristol-based firm Lyons Davidson expects to make 50 redundancies despite securing a number of recent high-profile alternative business structure (ABS) tie-ups.
DLA Piper represents Horizon Healthcare Services in dismissal of insurance lawsuit
DLA Piper has represented Horizon Healthcare Services in the dismissal of a suit by the Association of New Jersey Chiropractors and two individual chiropractors.
Future of Financial Advice series: opt-in and fee disclosure download
This update is targeted specifically at claims officers and underwriters of insurers of professionals required to comply with the FOFA reforms.
DAC Beachcroft issues £10m cash call and raises facility to £40m
DAC Beachcroft has issued a £10m cash call to the firm's LLP members while increasing its rolling credit facility to £40m as it pushes toward a revenue target of £200m for the 2013/14 year end.
DWF half year turnover swells by 57.5 per cent to £93.6m
DWF has continued its upward trajectory with revenue up 57.5 per cent at the half year, with growth largely driven by the February acquisitions of Fishburns and Cobbetts.
EU deal on Solvency II brings relief to insurance industry, says Eversheds
Partner and insurance expert Jeremy Irving welcomes greater clarity regarding Solvency II.
Ridha, Mowaffaq H
Morgan Cole offloads claims group to DAC Beachcroft and BLM
Cardiff-headquartered Morgan Cole is transferring its Bristol-based volume claims and catastrophic insurance teams, including five partners, to DAC Beachcroft while Berrymans Lace Mawer (BLM) has picked up a partner and seven staff from the firm.
Ridha, Ayad
Flood, Paul
Conyers' Chris Garrod discusses the rise of ILS in Global Reinsurance magazine
Chris Garrod of Conyers Dill & Pearman's Bermuda insurance practice has discussed the rise of insurance-linked securities (ILSs) in Global Reinsurance magazine.
Sunken vessel's owners commence court proceedings against insurers for indemnity download
In May 2006, the Alexandros T sank off the shore of South Africa; her owners commenced proceedings in the Commercial Court against the vessel's insurers for an indemnity.
Hogan Lovells advises on life insurance merger between Tokio Marine companies
Hogan Lovells has advised Tokio Marine & Nichido Financial Life Insurance Co on its absorption merger with another group company, Tokio Marine Nichido Life Insurance Co.
Constructive knowledge of insurers: online databases weblink
Insurers may find themselves effectively fixed with constructive knowledge of certain information available online and hence unable to rely on policy conditions to decline cover.
ATE insurance premiums must relate to the cost exposure they purport to cover download
One of the main Jackson reforms to affect civil litigation was the abolition of the recoverability of ATE insurance premiums and success fees in CFAs from the losing (paying) party.
Taylor Wessing appoints Mark Fraser as managing partner in Dubai
Taylor Wessing has announced that Mark Fraser has been appointed as managing partner, effective from 1 November 2013.
AA gains ABS licence through Bristol joint venture
The AA has become the latest high-street company to be granted an ABS licence by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) after launching a joint venture with Bristol-based Lyons Davidson.
The Liquidity Coverage Ratio proposal — questions and answers download
On 24 October 2013, the Federal Reserve released a proposed rule that would apply a Liquidity Coverage Ratio to certain US banking organisations.
New investment regulations for Thai insurers become effective download
New regulations have become effective that govern how life and non-life insurers in Thailand may conduct investment and engage in other business.
SRA confirms 153 uninsured firms face closure
More than 150 firms could face closure after being unable to get professional indemnity insurance (PII) on the open market.
Hiscox cuts claims panel from 45 to 13 firms
Hiscox has become the latest financial institution to cut its panel, with the insurer slashing its claims roster from 45 to 13.
DLA Piper named Law Firm of the Year for Insurance Law in JUVE manual
DLA Piper has been named Law Firm of the Year in Germany for Insurance Law in the JUVE manual Law Firms 2013/2014.
Clydes breaks new ground in China with Chongqing joint venture
Clyde & Co has received regulatory approval to establish a joint venture in Chongqing with domestic firm West Link Partnership, making it the first international commercial firm to have a presence in south west China.
Hill Dickinson expands in London with two-partner hire
Hill Dickinson has expanded its London reinsurance practice through the hire of a two partners from US-firm Riker Danzig Scherer Hyland & Perretti.
Ditchfield, Michael
Junior counsel
Harper Macleod's Glasgow office launches redundancy consultation
An unspecified number of jobs have been put at risk in Harper Macleod due to restructuring of its insurance department.
Hong Kong's insurance group appoints KWM partner as chairman
King & Wood Mallesons' Hong Kong partner Ronald Arculli has been appointed as the first chairman of the FWD Group, the insurance unit of Pacific Century Group owned by Hong Kong tycoon Richard Li.
Kennedys' Simpson & Marwick merger postponed
Kennedys' merger with Scottish firm Simpson & Marwick has been delayed because "aspects of the merger could not be finalised within the ambitious timetable", according to a statement today.
Future of Financial Advice series: ban on conflicted remuneration download
This update is intended as a general overview, targeted specifically at claims officers and underwriters of insurers of professionals required to comply with the FOFA reforms.
Slater & Gordon acquisition spree continues with industrial disease firm John Pickering
Slater & Gordon is to take over niche industrial disease firm John Pickering and Partners, the Australian firm's fourth acquisition since August.
Minter Ellison named Insurance Law Firm of the Year at AB F Insurance Awards
For the second year in a row, Minter Ellison was named Insurance Law Firm of the Year 2013 at the 11th annual AB F Insurance Awards in Sydney.
Revealed: A&O, Links and Olswang out after L&G cut panel from 19 to five
Allen & Overy, Linklaters and Olswang are among the firms to have missed out on Legal & General (L&G) panel places after the insurer cut its advisor roster from 19 to five, it has emerged.
The importance of understanding insurance indemnity arrangements weblink
Mills & Reeve has emphasised the need to read and understand insurance indemnity arrangements.
Ince & Co's shipping and corporate and commercial teams recommended as top tier
Legal 500 UK 2013 has recommended Ince & Co as a top-tier law firm in shipping and corporate and commercial.
Silent on the point: what are the landlord's repairing obligations? download
A court has held that a landlord is not responsible for repairs to the retained parts of a property where the lease does not contain an express repairing covenant relating to those parts.
Future of Financial Advice Series: best interests duty download
This update sets out the Future of Financial Advice's best interests duty.
Flood insurance — properties all at sea weblink
Insurers have resisted funding the contingency for high-risk properties, which has resulted in governmental persuasion through a series of pooling agreements with the ABI.
Financial institutions e-briefing: professional negligence/title rectification/mortgage fraud download
This financial institutions e-briefing from Eversheds looks at the current overhaul going on in the professional indemnity insurance market.
7KBW receives two awards at the Chambers UK Bar Awards 2013
7KBW's David Edwards QC has received the Insurance Silk of the Year award while the law firm won Insurance Set of the Year.
Minter Ellison's insurance practice is one of the largest in Australia and truly national.
Insurance and reinsurance
Our international insurance and reinsurance team is recognised as a leader in the field, bringing a long track record of great results.
Commercial Court rules 'no riot' for insurers or business download
The Commercial Court has ruled that consequential losses arising from riots cannot be recovered from the public purse.
Wildgen newsletter — September 2013 download
Luxembourg law firm Wildgen, Partners in Law, has released the September 2013 issue of its newsletter.
Hogan Lovells voted best European law firm at Reactions Global Awards
Hogan Lovells was voted the best European law firm at the Reactions Global Awards, which was held in New York on 25 September 2013.
Retired NFL players settle concussion litigation, but potential insurance implications to be determined download
The NFL and helmet manufacturer Riddell Inc faced lawsuits from thousands of former NFL players alleging that injuries sustained during their NFL careers resulted in neurological damage.
Victims' needs must come first
Claimant groups will need a lot of convincing about a new proposal for progressing mesothelioma cases
The ISO's endorsement revisions: clarification or increased confusion? download
The Insurance Services Office's 2013 additional insured endorsement revisions place heightened emphasis on contractual risk transfer language.
Hurricane season is here — is your insurance programme ready for the next storm? download
This briefing provides an overview of some insurance coverage-related issues facing commercial policyholders after a catastrophic storm.
Is faulty workmanship an occurrence under a CGL policy? West Virginia now says yes download
West Virginia is now among the majority of states that recognise defective construction causing bodily injury or property damage is an 'occurrence' under standard CGL policies.
Muddying the waters on policy-stacking law download
Some losses, notably pollution, landslides, asbestos exposure, and other similar losses often arise from progressive injury occurring over a period of years.
Superstorm Sandy: bad-faith claims download
A tool at the insured's disposal in pursuing insurance claims in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy.
Evans QC, Gareth
Fair presentation of the risk weblink
Insurers may still insist that consumers provide a fair presentation of the risk, but what is fair will be circumscribed by the scope of the new duty under CIDRA.
Clydes knocks BLP out of UK200 top 15 corporate table as revenues leap by a third
Clyde & Co increased its corporate turnover by a third during 2012/13, with the group generating revenues of £70.7m over the financial year.
Irwin Mitchell seeking new partnership in Spain
Irwin Mitchell is closing in on a deal with an unnamed Spanish firm which will determine the future of its Spanish subsidiary, Irwin Mitchell Abogados.
Keoghs makes triple partner hire
North West firm Keoghs has confirmed the appointment of three partners in Greater Manchester.
South Australia moves to prevent insurance 'loophole' for OHS fines download
After being given an A$200,000 criminal fine for safety breaches that led to the death of an employee, a company director avoided personally paying because he was indemnified under an insurance policy.
Keystone ends recruitment drive at 132 lawyers
Keystone Law has closed its 14-month recruitment drive with the addition of a final eight lawyers into its property, employment and insurance teams, bringing the total number to 132.
Solictors' insurance renewal — a new dawn or same again? weblink
This year, solicitors' insurance rarely seems to have been out of the legal news. This has largely been down to the changes to the market that will come into effect from 1 October 2013.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act toolbox download
This tool is designed to help covered entities and business associates determine what they need to address under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.
Ince & Co named as UK market leader in legal elite survey in Intelligent Insurer
Intelligent Insurer has named Ince & Co as an overall UK market leader in its annual legal elite survey 2013 for the insurance market.
Focus: 'home insurance' — new provisions concerning management of insurance relationships via the internet download
Life and non-life insurance companies must now arrange suitable areas in their websites reserved for each contracting party.
FSB applies key attributes to insurers download
The FSB has issued proposed guidance on the application of the key attributes of effective resolution regimes for financial institutions to non-bank financial institutions.
Pinsents boost insurance practice with Clydes hire
Pinsent Masons has hired Clyde & Co partner Manoj Vaghela along with legal director Chamika Hand in its insurance group.
PII implosion looms as underwriter Berliner exits market
Solicitors' professional indemnity insurance rates are set to rocket following the withdrawal of underwriter Berliner from the market, leading insurance brokers have warned.
New York insurance holding company law and regulation amendments 2013 download
New York has recently enacted and promulgated amendments to its insurance holding company laws and regulations and related laws.
Aviva's tough decisions on panel rejig
Aviva completes extensive panel rejig, assigning work by jurisdiction
Professional indemnity insurance: Toughing it out
As the renewal season for professional indemnity insurance approaches, insurers see the market hardening
Kennedys bulks up in LatAm with Colombia alliance
Kennedys has entered into an association with Bogota-based insurance litigation and arbitration boutique Botero Salazar Tobo´n & Abogados (BST).
Allen & Overy advises ING Group on the sale of its South Korean life insurance business
Allen & Overy has advised ING Group on the KRW1.84tn sale of ING Life Korea to private-equity firm MBK Partners.
The magic circle will disappear within a decade, industry leaders predict
Seven more transatlantic mergers, the end of the magic circle and the disappearance of 25 of the current top 100 by 2018 are just some of the wide-ranging predictions made in today's crystal ball-gazing issue of The Lawyer.
Kennedys to merge with Scottish firm Simpson Marwick
Kennedys has confirmed it is to merge with Scottish law firm Simpson & Marwick on 1 November.
CC misses out on Aviva panel place as review results revealed
Clifford Chance has missed out on a spot on Aviva's new group and UK panel, following a similarly unsuccessful pitch for the insurance giant's plc roster in April.
Horwich Farrelly appoints insurance chairman to board
Manchester-headquartered insurance firm Horwich Farrelly has appointed Allianz Global Assistance UK (AGA UK) chairman Mike Webb to its board in a bid to forge deeper relationships with the insurance industry.
Access to affordable flood cover weblink
Earlier this year we reported on the Statement of Principles, an agreement between the government and the ABI that ensured that homeowners and small businesses had access to affordable flood cover.
Retail customer: consumer by another name weblink
In Bate v Aviva Insurance UK Limited the court considered the rejection of a claim brought by an insurance industry loss assessor under a domestic buildings and contents insurance policy.
Code of conduct for brokers: a bumpy code ahead? weblink
Mills & Reeves looks at the proposed introduction of a code of conduct for brokers and what it will really mean for the brokers' market.
Mulling over the Consumer Insurance (Disclosure and Representations) Act 2012 weblink
The Consumer Insurance (Disclosure and Representations) Act 2012 (CIDRA) came into force in April 2013. It impacts on any insurer or broker dealing with consumer/personal insurance.
Multiple losses and multiple policies: who pays? download
The question of how to allocate multiple losses has recently come before the Supreme Court.
Aon steps into the breach after XL and AIG reduce PII exposure
Insurance broker Aon Risk Solutions has stepped into the breach following the news that XL Insurance and AIG intend to significantly reduce their market share in the solicitors professional indemnity (PII) market.
Asia: Corporate Newsletter — August 2013 download
The August 2013 issue of DLA Piper's Asia: Corporate Newsletter is available now.
RPC loses two senior partners from insurance practice
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) has lost two members of its insurance practice, including reinsurance chief Simon Kilgour and partner Jason Bright.
AIG to announce cost-cutting panel line-up within weeks
Insurance giant AIG is to reveal its new legal panel next month following a review of its Emea advisers.
Taylor Wessing announces relaunch of its shipping practice
Taylor Wessing has relaunched its shipping practice.
Supreme Court confirms order in which insurance losses should be prioritised weblink
Losses under a programme of excess liability insurance are sometimes prioritised in order to maximise the potential insurance recoveries under the programme.
'Hot fun in the summertime': insurance regulatory activity heats up download
The now iconic song of 1969 aptly describes the insurance regulatory activity we are seeing in the summer of 2013.
Key considerations for airline start-ups weblink
Starting an airline requires entrepreneurs with drive, motivation and vision to turn the idea into a viable reality.
Insurance disputes over the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire download
Pillsbury's Robert James shakes up accepted wisdom and puts to the torch a few cherished myths about the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire.
Insurance in the British Virgin Islands download
The Financial Services Commission recently reported that there are more than 2,301 entities licensed to carry on insurance business in or from within the BVI.
Can a statutory charge affect advancement of legal costs for an appeal? download
This article considers what the NSW Court of Appeal's decision on the operation of s 6 of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1946 may mean for advancement of legal costs on appeal.
'Princess of the Stars': Amlin Corporate Member Ltd & Others v Oriental Assurance Corporation download
At a trial of the action, Mr Justice Field held that there had been a breach of the typhoon warranty.
Luxembourg legal update — July 2013 download
The July 2013 issue of Arendt & Medernach's Luxembourg legal update is available now.
Professional indemnity special: Division sign
The collapse of several insurers won't worry the smart set, but it is likely to be a problem for smaller law firms
New interpretation of insurance code weblink
The PRC Supreme Court has recently issued the Second Judicial Interpretation of the PRC Insurance Code, which came into force on 8 June 2013.
Allen & Overy advises HB Reavis Group on sale of Bratislava office complex
Allen & Overy has advised HB Reavis Group on the sale of Apollo Business Center IV, a Class A office complex in Bratislava, to Ceská pojištovna.
ABI verdict on equity capital markets: not broken but room for improvement download
On 11 July 2013, the ABI published its report 'Encouraging Equity Investment' following a review of the processes for IPOs and secondary offerings.
Panel shortlists Taylor Wessing for 'Professional Service Provider of the Year'
Taylor Wessing has been shortlisted for 'Professional Service Provider of the Year' in the Worldwide Reinsurance Awards 2013.
DAC Beachcroft cuts five fee-earners from employment
DAC Beachcroft has cut five fee earning positions after restructuring its London employment and pensions team.
DLA Piper is highly ranked in a number of sectors by Gvardia magazine
DLA Piper in Ukraine has been highly ranked in a number of sectors by legal magazine Gvardia.
Direct Line applies for ABS licence to launch Parabis partnership
Directors win insurance tug of war with class action claimants download
A court has considered whether NSW legislation that creates a statutory charge over insurance moneys in favour of third-party claimants applies to advancement of defence costs under a D&O policy.
Coverage for insured property works — who pays when the insurer's contractor goes bust? download
Insurers and insureds do not bear the risk of a contractor becoming insolvent when undertaking insured repair work.
Interpreting and construing insurance policies: dewatering a pond is not as simple as it seems download
Vero Insurance Ltd v Australian Prestressing Services Pty Ltd reaffirms the importance of interpreting and construing insurance policies according to their own particular terms.
Rules for construction of insurance contracts — a useful list download
Insurers should take care in specifying situations in which endorsements and special conditions apply within their policies.
Insurance and Reinsurance Newsletter — July 2013: Italy download
DLA Piper has released the July 2013 edition of its Insurance and Reinsurance Newsletter: Italy.
Joining a competitor? The potential consequences of insurance brokers soliciting their former clients download
The Gentech case highlights the importance of using restrictive covenants in employee contracts.
CIRC establishes rules for investing insurance funds in financial derivatives download
The Chinese insurance regulator has established rules for investing insurance funds in financial derivatives.
DAC Beachcroft boosts London office with partner duo
DAC Beachcroft has strengthened its corporate insurance and health real estate teams with two partner hires in London.
A colossal collision — insurer emerges unscathed download
In Murray's Transport NSW Pty Ltd v CGU Insurance Ltd, insurers successfully relied on an exclusion clause to avoid a third-party claim under section 51(1) of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth).
Third parties wishing to proceed against an insurer under s6 must ensure they fall within the statutory limitation period download
Even where the event and the cover coincide, a third party wishing to proceed against an insurer under s6 must ensure that they fall within the statutory limitation period that would be imposed on any claim against the insured.
Crystal ball gazing — privilege and anticipation of litigation download
The court's reasons in Ensham Resources v Aioi Insurance Company are now, arguably, the leading decision on the issue of privilege and loss adjuster's reports.
Professional is as professional does: 'civil liability' and 'professional capacity' download
Kyriackou v ACE Insurance Ltd concerned the refusal of an insurer to indemnify an insured under a professional indemnity policy for his costs in defending ASIC proceedings.
Some are more equal than others: giving priority to insurance creditors under s562A download
As a (very) general rule, debts and claims rank equally in a company winding up. One of the exceptions to this rule applies where the company being wound up is an insurer.
The price of silence: indemnity on a party/party basis download
An insured's failure to seek the insurer's prior written consent to incur costs in connection with legal proceedings did not preclude the insured from being indemnified for those costs under the policy.
Remediation of contaminated land and 'claims made against the insured' download
The issue of whether contamination remediation costs are covered by an insurance contract was discussed in Hamcor Pty Ltd v Queensland.
Still interested in interest? Another case concerning section 57 ICA download
De Smeth v NSW Fire Brigades Superannuation Pty Ltd [2013] NSWSC 19 considered ICA s57 in the context of a total and permanent incapacity claim.
What is Consultation Paper 212 and how does it affect general insurance advisers? download
On 24 June 2013, ASIC released a consultation paper proposing changes to the training standards for financial product advisers
Insurance Contracts Amendment Act to herald a new regime of rights and obligations download
The Insurance Contracts Amendment Bill has now been passed by both Houses of Parliament.
What's unfair? — Insurance Contracts Amendment (Unfair Terms) Bill 2013 download
The Federal Government has released the Insurance Contracts Amendment (Unfair Terms) Bill 2013.
Insurance and reinsurance: 'perils of the seas' and fraudulent devices weblink
The decision in Versloot Dredging BV v. HDI Gerling and others (The DC Merwestone) is of considerable significance to marine insurers and non-marine insurers alike.
Allen & Overy advises Dai-ichi Life Insurance on PT Panin Life acquisition
Allen & Overy is advising the Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company on its IDR3.3tn acquisition of a 40 per cent stake in PT Panin Life of Indonesia.
BLM to open Lloyd's of London desk
Berrymans Lace Mawer LLP (BLM) is to open a desk in the Lloyd's of London building, its second office in the City.
Particular emphasis is on green field investments and mergers and acquisitions involving insurance and reinsurance companies, permitting/filling and regulatory advice.
Insurance recovery and advisory
We have recovered more than $6bn of insurance policy proceeds for our policyholder clients, and regularly help them obtain broad and appropriate insurance coverage.
Opinion: High price of cheap PI cover
SRA should soften consumer focus and clamp down on the unrated sector to secure PI future
US regulatory activity reflects steps toward more regulation and heightened scrutiny download
The past few weeks have seen a flurry of insurance regulatory activity at the federal, state and international level.
SRA considers credit ratings for professional indemnity insurers
The SRA has announced that it is considering the introduction of a financial rating criteria for professional indemnity insurance (PII) underwriters.
Will the Supreme Court's ruling in Teal spell the end for the hold harmless fiction? download
In an appeal from Teal Assurance v WE Berkeley Insurance, the Supreme Court has the opportunity to consider and perhaps jettison the hold harmless fiction.
ATE insurance: What's the damage?
After-the-event insurance has been a popular way of protecting claimants against a loss in litigation but its future is now in question
What the CIDR Act 2013 means for insurers and insureds weblink
As a result of the recent entry into force of the CIDR Act 2012, insurers and insureds will have to be aware of changes affecting the treatment of consumer complaints by the FOS.
Insurance fraud — gateway to information under the Data Protection Act weblink
Non-sensitive personal data must be processed in a way that complies with the eight data protection principles. There are additional requirements if the data is of a sensitive personal nature.
Mills & Reeve acquires nine-strong defendant insurance team from DLA Piper
Mills & Reeve acquires nine-strong defendant insurance team from DLA Piper.
Norton Rose Fulbright partner exits for Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance has hired Norton Rose Fulbright corporate insurance partner Ashley Prebble, who joins the magic circle firm's London practice.
Clydes launches fourth US base with Atlanta opening today
Clyde & Co has hired two partners from US firm Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Cires to launch its fourth US office in Atlanta.
1,300 firms at risk after Latvian insurer Balva forced to call in liquidators
Around 1,300 firms will be forced to find replacement professional indemnity insurance (PII) or be put at risk of being closed down after the Latvian authorities yesterday withdrew operating licences from domestic insurer Balva.
Mills & Reeve picks up DLA insurance team in Birmingham
Mills & Reeve is taking a nine-strong insurance team from DLA Piper headed by the firm's Birmingham insurance head Alan Jacobs.
Prudential Corporation Asia GC: Pru grit
Alice Chan, GC at Prudential Corporation Asia, has to keep a strong grip on a diverse and growing business, recently overseeing a major expansion in Thailand
Legal 500 US 2013 recommends Hogan Lovells in 35 practice areas
Hogan Lovells has been recommended by the Legal 500 US 2013 edition in 35 practice areas, including seven rankings in the Tier-1 category.
Opportunities to manage Chinese insurance assets download
PRC insurance companies are being encouraged to invest offshore in a number of countries, including Australia.
Are your insurance cancellation terms clear? weblink
BISL Ltd has given an undertaking relating to the cancellation terms in its insurance policies, after the Financial Services Authority found the terms to be unfair.
Second Circuit confirms excess insurance is triggered only upon actual payment of all underlying limits download
Federal Insurance Company has achieved an important victory in a long-standing insurance coverage litigation concerning the proper trigger of excess directors and officers insurance.
PI: Back-up to the future
Changes to the way solicitors insure themselves are kicking in this year. Our peer panel surveys the new landscape.
Ince & Co celebrates 20 years in Piraeus
Ince & Co is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the opening of its Piraeus office.
Mills & Reeve merges with George Davies
Mills & Reeve has announced that its merger with Manchester firm George Davies has completed.
Kennedys to merge with Gates and Partners this weekend
Kennedys will formally merge with aviation practice Gates & Partners this weekend (1 June).
Insurance giant Lockton looks to Towergate for next GC
US-based insurance giant Lockton has announced the hire of Towergate legal chief Sam Clark as its new general counsel.
DLA Piper receives individual lawyer and practice rankings in 2013 Chambers USA
DLA Piper has received 177 individual lawyer and 64 practice rankings in the latest annual Chambers USA.
Willis Global GC: Risk taker and breaker
Global GC Adam Rosman's role at insurance broker Willis demands that he not only defends the business against current risk but that he spies any potential on the horizon
Magazine survey votes Hogan Lovells as top insurance/reinsurance firm in London and EU
Reactions readers have voted Hogan Lovells as the top insurance and reinsurance law firm in the London market and in the EU.
Admiralty and maritime law
Admiralty and maritime law is one of the most ancient of all bodies of law, with legal practice in this area deeply intertwined with marine transportation, international trade, international clearing, insurance and other related fields.
E:gen — May 2013 issue weblink
The May 2013 issue of Winckworth Sherwood's E-gen publication is available now.
Weightmans records 6 per cent turnover growth for 2012/13
Weightmans has announced record revenue figures for the 2012/13 financial year, with turnover hitting £82m - up from £77.1m in 2011/12.
Aviva takes tough line in panel review
A&O joins Slaughters on Aviva's plc roster; insurer insisted on discounts
Awards of damages provide powerful ammunition for insurers download
Awards of damages in three recent cases provide powerful ammunition for insurers when seeking to reduce their claims exposure.
A solicitor should not be subject to a non-party costs order for failing to obtain ATE insurance download
The court's jurisdiction to make a NCPO against a solicitor who had acted under a CFA without the benefit of ATE insurance has been the subject of two recent Court of Appeal decisions.
Insurance giant Parabis on verge of £90m merger with Greenwoods
Defendant insurance firm Plexus Law, a subsidiary of Parabis, is to merge with Greenwoods to create a £90m firm.
Incoming Weightmans management: London tops the agenda
Weightmans' incoming management team has vowed to make its London office a priority as the firm refocuses for a post-Jackson world.
Mills & Reeve announces six new internal partner appointments
Mills & Reeve has announced six new internal partner appointments, which will take effect from 1 June 2013.
Bermuda insurance companies download
This memorandum has been prepared for the assistance of those who are considering the formation of an insurance company in Bermuda.
Will Supreme Court ruling affect businesses offering 'repair and replace' warranties? download
The Financial Services Authority (now replaced by the FCA) took action against Digital Satellite Warranty Cover Ltd to wind it up 'in the public interest'.
Jurisdiction update: Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Mauritius download
Conyers Dill & Pearman has released issue three of its Jurisdiction Update for 2013, covering Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands and Mauritius. Topics include insurance developments in Bermuda, a new 'approved manager' regime in the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands master funds and more.
Conyers is regularly involved in the largest, most innovative and complex corporate transactions involving companies in Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands and Mauritius.
MetLife hires Asia legal head from UBS
Insurer MetLife has appointed former UBS Asia-Pacific general counsel Kevin Wilkey as its new head of legal in Asia.
Vehicle incident manager FMG to launch ABS with NewLaw
Vehicle incident management group FMG has become the latest business to launch an ABS in a bid to offer legal services.
Insurance contract law review — update on current position download
With the Consumer Insurance (Disclosure & Representations) Act 2012 coming into effect on 6 April 2013, Hogan Lovells takes a closer look at its potential impacts.
Motor insurer Admiral enters legal market in face of referral fee ban
FTSE100 insurer Admiral has stepped into the legal sector via two ABS joint ventures, with Bristol-based claims specialist Lyons Davidson and Cardiff-based compensation firm Cordner Lewis.
RAC lays foundations for ABS move with Quindell deal
Motoring giant RAC has laid the foundations for a move into the legal market after agreeing a deal with the Quindell Portfolio estimated to be worth £500m annually.
Insurer Ageas launches ABS with Cardiff's NewLaw
Insurance group Ageas UK has become one of the first insurers to set up an ABS to provide legal advice.
UK Regulatory Update — Issue 6: roadmap to PRA and FCA interaction download
Taylor Wessing has released issue six of its UK Regulatory Update.
Lawyer rating publication recognises Ince & Co's Super Lawyers and Rising Stars
Thomson Reuters' Super Lawyers publication recognises Ince & Co.
Ince & Co achieves top rankings in Chambers Global 2013 edition
Ince & Co has been recognised in Chambers Global 2013: The World's Leading Lawyers for Business.
Chambers Global ranks Conyers as a Band 1 firm in global offshore
Conyers Dill & Pearman has been highly ranked in the 2013 edition of Chambers Global.
Chambers Global 2013 — DLA Piper full ranking summary download
DLA Piper has released a summary of all of the firm's rankings and editorial commentary in Chambers Global 2013.
Insurance e-brief — March 2013 download
Ince & Co has released its insurance e-brief for March 2013.
AIG mulls reverse auction in cost-cutting Emea panel review
AIG is considering a reverse auction for law firms pitching to win places on part of its legal panel amid a review of its Emea advisers.
Actual or alleged liability — the 'Bermuda Form' under English law download
Ramifications of the recent 'Bermuda Form' judgment will undoubtedly cause insureds concern.
Payment protection products update — January 2013 download
The FSA and OFT have published their final guidance and summary of responses on Payment Protection Products.
Insurance company Das acquires Bristol PI firm
Insurance expenses giant Das Group has completed its acquisition of Bristol personal injury firm CW Law.
Insurance and reinsurance
NCTM offers services to both Italian and foreign insurers, re-insurers and others doing business in Italy.
Key legislative proposals on establishment of the Independent Insurance Authority in Hong Kong download
The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has, on 26 October 2012, published legislative proposals on establishment of the Independent Insurance Authority (IIA).
Kremer, Max
Partner and head of the Moscow representative office
Ashurst, Davis Polk and Slaughters at the wheel for Esure IPO
Ashurst, US firm Davis Polk & Wardwell and Slaughter and May have won roles advising on the planned IPO of Esure.
Lawyers from Norton Rose and RPC help launch LGBT network
Insurance lawyers at Norton Rose and RPC are among the founding members of an LGBT network for the insurance industry.
Bowman Gilfillan offers insurance expertise in both the dispute resolution and corporate departments.
The blanket approach — green light given to 'catch-all' insurance notifications download
Blanket notification of claims is likely to be sufficient to trigger an insurance policy.
Insurance and reinsurance law
The lawyers within our Insurance and Reinsurance Law practice advise insurance and reinsurance companies as well as insurance intermediaries on all regulatory matters relevant to their businesses.
Chadbourne & Parke appoints four attorneys to counsel in New York and Washington DC
Chadbourne promotes four attorneys to counsel in New York and Washington DC.
English court confirms WTC losses arose from two events, not one download
The Commercial Court has confirmed the position that the insured losses caused by the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Centre arose out of two events and not one.
Comments sought on several issues concerning work-related injury insurance download
Opinions on Several Issues Concerning the Implementation of the Regulations on Work-related Injury Insurance (Consultation Draft) has been released to solicit public comments.
High and dry? Flooding and uninsured risks download
No workable solution has yet been found to the flood insurance question.
Just Costs, Simpson Millar and Vamco join growing ABS list
The latest round of ABS approvals has seen a motor claims specialist with an in-house law firm, a £15m national firm and a costs specialist all gain licences.
Insurance and reinsurance: new developments in the law of vicarious liability download
Liability insurers need to be aware of the US Supreme Court's decision in The Catholic Child Welfare Society and others v Various Claimants and the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools [2012] UKSC 56, which represents a further development in the law of vicarious liability.
Insurance e-brief: November 2012 download
The objective of this e-brief is to provide short and focused summaries of legal developments of interest to insurance professionals in the UK and elsewhere.
InSure: developments affecting the insurance industry — December 2012 download
This month's round-up of developments affecting the insurance industry.
InSure: round-up of developments affecting the insurance industry — November 2012 download
This month's round-up of developments affecting the insurance industry.
How do you apportion a claim under a liability policy? download
How do you apportion a claim under a liability policy? The answer, according to the Court of Appeal, is you don't.
DLA Piper advises on establishment of reinsurer
DLA Piper has represented Fosun International in its private equity investment in Peak Reinsurance Holdings Limited, a Bermuda reinsurer with operations in Asia.
Our insurance team specialises in advising on the establishment, regulatory compliance and business operations of insurance and reinsurance companies based in the Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey.
Central to our commercial insurance work is our investment in clients and the effort we put into understanding their needs and problems. We will strive to find you practical and business-like solutions, because litigation in any dispute should always be the last resort.
Insurance and reinsurance
Ince & Co has worked with the insurance and reinsurance markets for more than 100 years.
The Hong Kong Privacy Commissioner sets his eyes on the insurance industry download
In November a guidance note was issued by the Hong Kong Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data to provide the insurance industry with practical guidance on how to comply with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance Cap. 486 when collecting and using personal data of customers.
The Taylor Wessing insurance and reinsurance review of 2012 download
The TW Annual Insurance and Reinsurance Review summarises the key case law developments in insurance and reinsurance throughout the year.
CIRC relaxes restrictions on permitted investments by insurance companies download
The China Insurance Regulatory Commission (CIRC) issued the Circular on Issues relating to Investment of Insurance Funds in Equity and Real Estate on 16 July 2012
Client alert: new U.S. sanctions on Iran download
The United States has enacted a new round of sanctions on Iran targeting non-U.S. companies that are conducting business with Iran related to shipping, shipbuilding, insurance, and metals.
Corporate practice newswire: December 2012 download
An update on issues in corporate law, covering acquisition agreements, insurance-linked securities and the general economic climate in Europe.
Hill Dickinson acquires DLA's Sheffield and Manchester insurance hubs
DLA Piper is to offload its Manchester and Sheffield defendant insurance practices to Hill Dickinson.
DLA Piper to shut Glasgow and offload defendant insurance teams as redundancy talks continue
DLA Piper has confirmed that it will shut its Glasgow office in the coming months and is on the cusp of agreeing deals with takers for its defendant insurance practices following the conclusion of a collective consultation.
Ashurst joins local firms on Aviva's sale of Malaysian joint venture
Ashurst and a group of Malaysian firms have advised on the RM1.8bn (£373m) sale of Aviva's Malaysian joint venture CIMB-Aviva to Sun Life Financial and Khazanah.
Horwich Farrelly becomes latest ABS as latest licences announced
Manchester insurance litigation firm Horwich Farrelly has become the latest top 200 UK firm to gain an ABS licence.
Insurance and reinsurance review — January 2013 download
An overview of issues in insurance and reinsurance law, including the impact of Hurricane Sandy and shipping insurance news.
Clydes hires boost New Jersey base
Clyde & Co has expanded in the US with the addition of a three-strong team to its New Jersey office.
Linklaters and White & Case lead as Bupa buys Polish healthcare group
Linklaters and White & Case have landed the lead mandates as Bupa makes its first foray into the Polish healthcare market by acquiring the country's largest healthcare provider LuxMed Group from Mid Europa Partners for €400m (£326m).
Liverpool Victoria promotes general counsel to company secretary
Bournemouth-based insurance company Liverpool Victoria (LV) has promoted general counsel Rachel Small to group company secretary.
DAC Beachcroft in motor claims tie-up with Innovation Group
DAC Beachcroft has joined forces with business process services provider Innovation Group in a bid to boost its motor claims practice.
NAIC 2012 Fall national meeting download
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners held its 2012 Fall National Meeting from 29 November to 2 December 2012 in National Harbor, Maryland.
Potential insurance and reinsurance implications of Hurricane Sandy download
Hurricane Sandy wreaked havoc on the East Coast of the US. When it struck land, Sandy was approximately 950 miles wide.
Magic circle trio advises as HSBC sells stake in Chinese insurer
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has advised HSBC on the $9.4bn (£5.8bn) sale of its entire shareholding in China's Ping An Insurance Group to Thai conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Group, which was represented by Linklaters.
Ince & Co hits Clydes for corporate insurance partner
Ince & Co has appointed former Clyde & Co partner Richard Britain as head of its newly formed corporate insurance practice.
Ince & Co appoints new head of corporate insurance practice
Ince & Co has announced the appointment of corporate insurance partner Richard Britain, who joins the firm as head of our corporate insurance practice.
Quindell takes over all Accident Advice Helpline claims
Quindell Portfolio, has signed deals to acquire claims management company Accident Advice Helpline (AAH) and law firm The Compensation Lawyers (TCL).
RPC reshuffles media group into IP practice
RPC is to restructure its media practice into the intellectual property group following the exit of media head Jaron Lewis.
Lockton International general counsel exits for RPC
Lockton International general counsel Charlotte Taggart has left the broker for private practice, becoming a corporate insurance partner at RPC.
Kennedys gears up to recommend Scottish merger to partners
Insurance firm Kennedys is in early-stage tie-up talks with Scotland's Simpson & Marwick and is preparing to put the prospect of a merger to its partners.
Clydes' Manchester fraud head takes 17-strong team to Keoghs
Clyde & Co's Manchester fraud head Damian Ward is to take a team of 17 to Keoghs after quitting the firm in the summer.
Clydes moots second Saudi launch as firm posts half-year turnover hike
Clyde & Co is considering launching a second Saudi Arabia base in Jeddah, as it emerges that the firm has delayed transferring partner Ben Cowling to the country's capital Riyadh amid a logistical hitch.
Parabis marches north with launch in Scotland
Insurance firm Parabis has launched in Scotland with the hire of HBJ Claim Solutions litigation head Tony O'Malley.
DAC Beachcroft signs three-way Chilean merger
DAC Beachcroft and Chilean firms Seguros Lex and Amunategui y Cia are to join forces to create DAC Beachcroft Chile from today (1 November 2012).
Milbank continues hiring spree with addition of Norton Rose litigator
Norton Rose is the latest firm to be raided by Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy, with the US headquartered firm hiring financial disputes partner Charles Evans.
Mayer Brown exodus continues as reinsurance litigator heads to Locke Lord
Mayer Brown has seen another partner departure from its City base, with high-profile reinsurance litigator Ian McKenna leaving to join US rival Locke Lord.
RPC hires Asia COO from Goodwin Proctor to drive growth
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) has appointed a chief executive officer for its nascent Asia practice to lead the development of the regional base.
Clifford Chance and Norton Rose appointed to revamped LV panel
Clifford Chance and Norton Rose have made first-time appearances on the corporate legal panel of Bournemouth-based insurance group Liverpool Victoria (LV).
BLM opens insurance-focused office in Dublin
Berrymans Lace Mawer (BLM) has made its first office opening outside the UK with a base in Dublin.
Kirkland scoops role on first Chinese Icsid arbitration
Kirkland & Ellis has been instructed by Chinese insurer, Ping An Life Insurance Company, in a landmark arbitration case against the Kingdom of Belgium, believed to be the first such case to be filed by a Chinese company at the World Bank's International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (Icsid).
DWF plans further Scottish expansion
DWF managing partner Andrew Leaitherland has said the firm is on the lookout for further growth in Scotland.
UK FSA review of the client money rules for insurance intermediaries download
On 28 August 2012, the UK's Financial Services Authority published a consultation paper which includes proposals to amend the rules on how insurance firms deal with client money.
A&O, Linklaters and Slaughters lead as RBS floats Direct Line
Allen & Overy (A&O), Linklaters and Slaughter and May are advising as the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) plans to float Direct Line Insurance in one of the biggest IPOs of the year.
Norton Rose boosts City insurance disputes with CMS's O'Connell
CMS Cameron McKenna regulatory and disputes head Liam O'Connell is set to join Norton Rose as a partner in its insurance litigation practice.
Plexus among firms on London boroughs insurance panel
Five firms have won panel places to handle insurance litigation claims on behalf of a group of London boroughs.
Parabis set for expansion after SRA ABS approval
Insurance firm Parabis is set for a £50m cash injection after being granted an ABS licence by the SRA, allowing it to take private equity investment from Duke Street.
Travelers hires European legal chief from Flagstone Re
Travelers has hired a counsel from Flagstone Re as head of legal and compliance across its European businesses.
Gateley signs legal helpline deal with insurer ACE Group
Gateley has sealed a deal with global insurer ACE Group to create a legal advice service for businesses and senior directors and officers (D&O).
PII pressure drop
The ARP is on its way out and law firms are becoming more commercial, which should make renewals less fretful
Keystone Law vows to take on 50 lawyers as part of £25m-turnover plan
Keystone Law is aiming to more than double its turnover within three years to £25m by attracting 50 new lawyers to its ranks.
RPC reveals rises in turnover and PEP at end of expansive year
RPC has revealed a 10 per cent rise in turnover to £68m for the 2011-12 financial year, while net profit has climbed 9.5 per cent to £23m.
Event horizon
Lawyers and underwriters are getting battle-ready for the new ATE arena as Jackson LJ's litigation reforms approach
International expansion drives Holman Fenwick to 10 per cent growth
International expansion has boosted turnover at Holman Fenwick Willan (HFW) by 10 per cent with the firm posting turnover of £123.8m at the year-end, up from £112.5m in 2010-11.
DAC Beachcroft continues expansion with trio of laterals
DAC Beachcroft is continuing on the acquisition trail with the appointment of three partners, including Eversheds' local government practice head Judith Barnes.
Ashurst picks up Herbert Smith partners to bolster financial services
Herbert Smith corporate insurance duo Adam Levitt and Hammad Akhtar have quit the firm to join Ashurst.
DAC Beachcroft ramps up volume arm with Zurich hire
DAC Beachcroft is to boost its claims solutions group with the hire of Zurich Financial Services' European claims director Bill Paton.
US firm Goldberg Segalla hires ex-BLG reinsurance head for City launch
US firm Goldberg Segalla is to launch in London next month after hiring reinsurance heavyweight Clive O'Connell.
Spending wisely
Regulation is the overriding issue for in-house insurance lawyers. Our experts examine where they allocate legal spend in a rapidly changing environment
Private equity house takes stake in insurance firm Parabis
Acquisition-hungry firm Parabis Group is to take a cash injection from private equity house Duke Street.
Insurance giant QBE prepares for first-ever European legal panel
Australian insurer QBE is to launch a non-claims UK panel review and establish its first European panel.
Court of Appeal dismisses West Tankers dispute
The court can enforce an arbitration award if it is for a negative declaration, the Court of Appeal (CoA) has ruled in the much-anticipated West Tankers case.
Kennedys senior partner wins fourth term in charge
Kennedys has endorsed the reelection of senior partner Nick Thomas to a fourth consecutive term at the helm after he stood unopposed.
RSA hires Gallagher Heath GC for newly created litigation role
Global insurer RSA has appointed Will Bloomer to the newly created role of UK head of litigation.
Admiral moots ABS move in wake of referral fee ban
FTSE100 insurer Admiral is considering a move into the legal sector following the ban on personal injury referral fees by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) earlier this year.
Mills & Reeve adds Kennedys partner to insurance team
Mills & Reeve has made its fifth lateral hire this year with the appointment of insurance partner Paul Spibey.
Simmons makes sixth partner hire from BLP in a year
Simmons & Simmons has hired a corporate insurance partner from Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) – its sixth hire from the firm this year.
Hogan Lovells names successor to retiring insurance head Young
Hogan Lovells has appointed a new head of corporate and regulatory insurance to replace John Young, who retires in April 2012.
Webster Dixon wins legal expense insurance case
Legal expense insurers cannot use cost as the sole basis for refusing to underwrite fees for policyholders who use non-panel solicitors, the High Court has ruled.
DAC Beachcroft growth strategy: pump up the volume
The merger between Beachcroft and Davies Arnold Cooper (DAC)?has been overshadowed by Barlow Lyde & Gilbert's upcoming tie-up with Clyde & Co.
Chartis aims to bring down costs with European panel
Chartis, the property casualty insurance carrier of US insurance giant AIG, is to launch its first European panel in 2012 in an effort to streamline its legal spend.
Irwin Mitchell moves 81 staff to BPO outfit
Irwin Mitchell is to transfer 81 support staff to business process outsourcing (BPO) company OCS as it looks to streamline its cost base in preparation for converting to an alternative business structure (ABS).
Quadrant launches arbitration team as Steel J returns to bar
Quadrant Chambers is to launch an arbitration division with the appointment of retired High Court judge Sir David Steel.
BLG's pre-merger exits continue as insurance duo quit for Ince
Barlow Lyde & Gilbert insurance partners Simon Cooper and Kiran Soar have defected to Ince & Co ahead of the firm's merger with Clyde & Co.
Blackstone silk loses Supreme Court asbestos case
The Supreme Court has ruled that people in Scotland who have been affected by the asbestos related condition pleural plaques have the right to compensation.
Collyer Bristow 'risks collapse' over £50m liability dispute
Firm in bitter litigation with insurance broker Lockton
Lockton accuses Collyer Bristow of crying wolf over 'bankruptcy' fears
Collyer Bristow is in dispute with its insurance broker Lockton Companies International over whether the intermediary has placed adequate liability insurance to cover a potential £50m loss in a fast-approaching negligence battle.
DWF bolsters insurance practice with six new hires
North West firm DWF has made six new appointments to its London insurance and retail teams with hires from Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP), K&L Gates, Plexus Law, Vizyard Wyeth and Zurich - the insurance provider.
Easy as PII
The PI insurance market is in a transitional phase, with new entrants heralding better times for smaller practices and fewer firms ending up in the assigned risks pool. By Martin Hall
RBS Insurance appoints RSA lawyer as general counsel
RBS Insurance has appointed RSA Insurance group legal director Humphrey Tomlinson to the role of general counsel and company secretary.
Camerons' Bristol insurance team depleted by RPC raid
Four insurance and reinsurance partners are set to leave the Bristol office of CMS Cameron McKenna in a mass defection to Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC).
MoJ bans referral fees outright
Referral fees for personal injury cases will be subject to an outright ban, the Ministry of Justice said today.
Mayer Brown swoops on Debevoise for insurance partner
Global firm Mayer Brown has grown its corporate and securities practice and insurance industry group with the hire of Colin Scagell as a partner in London.
The Lawyer UK 200 preview: Insurance: Upstarts force pace of change
Volume houses are driving the delivery of legal services, says Katy Dowell
Bitter aftertaste
After-the-event insurance is changing, and it is the smaller cases that will suffer the most.
Lawyers back Jack Straw's bid to ban referral fees
Personal injury lawyers have applauded former justice secretary Jack Straw's calls to ban referral fees, saying the practice does not benefit law firms or their clients.
Clydes finalises merger with Canada's Nicholl Paskell-Mede
Clyde & Co has completed its merger with Canadian insurance firm Nicholl Paskell-Mede (NPM).
DAC and Beachcroft moot £175m merger
Davies Arnold Cooper (DAC) and Beachcroft are in merger talks to create a £175m insurance giant, The Lawyer can reveal.
Beachcroft favours insurance in six-strong promos round
Beachcroft has focused on its core domestic insurance practice in its latest round of partnership promotions, bringing six into the fold.
BLG chief exec: Clydes deal is no rescue merger
Potential merger would 'destroy the competition' in insurance sector
BLG and Clydes eye UK top 10 slot with potential merger
Barlow Lyde & Gilbert (BLG) is planning to merge with fellow insurance firm Clyde & Co, in a deal that would propel the combined entity into the UK top 10 by turnover.
Freshfields' PPI judicial review rejected by court
The High Court has dismissed a judicial review launched by the British Bankers' Association (BBA) against the FSA and Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) over the handling of payment protection insurance (PPI) claims.
Links and Norton Rose win spots on prudential panel
Linklaters and Norton Rose have clinched new spots on Prudential Group's global legal panel, in a move that formalises both firms' long-standing relationships with the financial services giant.
Clydes brings in Howden GC for professional indemnity offering
Clyde & Co has raided Lloyds of London broker Howden for its general counsel Simon Gildener.
Beachcroft wins mandate to handle Jubilee Insurance's motor claims
London insurer Jubilee Insurance has appointed Beachcroft to run off the claims for its motor insurance business.
Weightmans confirms acquisition of Vizards Wyeth's insurance practice
North West firm Weightmans has confirmed that its plan to acquire Vizards Wyeth's insurance team will go ahead.
ECJ rules that gender-based insurance pricing is unlawful
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has outlawed the practice of pricing insurance premiums based on gender.
Beachcroft consolidates volume brand into firm
Beachcroft is to phase out its ringfenced 'B2 from Beachcroft' brand and roll out the volume business across its real estate and employment practices.
Clyde & Co hires to build NY insurance unit
Clyde & Co has appointed partner Robert Ansehl to build a corporate insurance practice in its New York office.
Aviva names new general counsel
Kirsty Cooper has been appointed to the dual role of general counsel and company secretary at Aviva.
DAC targets Brazil with insurance firm link-up
Davies Arnold Cooper (DAC) is putting Latin America at the heart of its strategy with a formal association with São Paolo boutique insurance law firm JBO Advocacia.
Optima reprimanded by the SRA over Capita investment
SRA comes down on Optima-Capita deal despite leading counsel giving green light to investment strategy
Taylor Wessing hikes insurance practice
Taylor Wessing has hired litigation partner Susannah Wakefield from Bermuda firm Attride-Stirling & Woloniecki, where she was a counsel.
BLG and HBJ create firewall for liabilities of Halliwells arrivals
Incoming Halliwells staff ringfenced into sub-LLPs to protect against potential claims from legacy clients
Morgan Cole set to offer ATE insurance
Morgan Cole has signed a delegated authority deal to enable it to broker after-the-event (ATE) insurance to clients.
Prudential rejigs UK legal function
Prudential has launched a revamp of its UK legal team with the creation of a new head of legal role.
Kennedys' year-end turnover up by a third
Insurance and litigation firm Kennedys has reported a 31 per cent rise in turnover to £88.25m at the 2009-10 year-end.
Insurer QBE names new legal chief as incumbent joins MOP
Commercial insurer QBE has promoted Esther Felton to head of legal replacing Adrian Williams, who is set to join Irish firm Matheson Ormsby Prentice.
SRA vs insurers as assigned risks pool governance proves sticking point
Relations between the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and solicitors' professional indemnity insurers have soured in recent weeks, resulting in underwriters calling for a radical overhaul of the sector.
When in Rome
New Europe-wide regulations to harmonise non-contractual obligation laws have had the opposite affect, says Paula Jefferson and Sarah Wright
DAC brings in Manchester insurance chief
Davies Arnold Cooper (DAC) has named Edward Coulson as head of its Manchester insurance practice.
Path of redemption
Every time a defective product is recalled, the company responsible must follow a long, meticulous and costly process of expiation. By James Stanbury
Lovells to shut Chicago after Hogan merger goes live
Lovells is to close its seven-partner Chicago office after it underperformed for a number of years.
Sidley snares Pinsents' insurance chief for City practice
US firm Sidley Austin has hired two Pinsent Masons partners for its London insurance practice, including the head of Pinsents' insurance group.
Video Test 5: You Tube video
Debevoise & Plimpton and Slaughter and May have landed prize roles on Prudential's proposed $35.5bn (£23.9bn) purchase of American International Group's (AIG) Asian insurance business.
Video Test 6: You Tube Index video
Debevoise & Plimpton and Slaughter and May have landed prize roles on Prudential's proposed $35.5bn (£23.9bn) purchase of American International Group's (AIG) Asian insurance business.
Video Test 4: Black Video Player Index video
Debevoise & Plimpton and Slaughter and May have landed prize roles on Prudential's proposed $35.5bn (£23.9bn) purchase of American International Group's (AIG) Asian insurance business.
Video Test 3: Silver Video Player Index video
Debevoise & Plimpton and Slaughter and May have landed prize roles on Prudential's proposed $35.5bn (£23.9bn) purchase of American International Group's (AIG) Asian insurance business.
Video Test 2: Silver Video Player In Text video
Debevoise & Plimpton and Slaughter and May have landed prize roles on Prudential's proposed $35.5bn (£23.9bn) purchase of American International Group's (AIG) Asian insurance business.
Video Test 1: Black Video Player In Text video
Debevoise & Plimpton and Slaughter and May have landed prize roles on Prudential's proposed $35.5bn (£23.9bn) purchase of American International Group's (AIG) Asian insurance business.
Debevoise and Slaughters lead on Pru's $35bn AIG Asia deal
Debevoise & Plimpton and Slaughter and May have landed prize roles on Prudential's proposed $35.5bn (£23.9bn) purchase of American International Group's (AIG) Asian insurance business.
Cubism Law launches insurance group
Litigation specialist Cubism Law has started a dedicated insurance group with the hire of two new consultants.
Clydes launches New Jersey insurance practice
Clyde & Co has extended its US footprint with the launch of an office in New Jersey.
Insurance giant Prudential names new general counsel
Prudential has appointed its interim general counsel and company secretary Margaret Coltman to the role on a permanent basis.
Plexus acquisition reinforces QBE ties
Plexus Law has strengthened its links with insurance giant QBE by acquiring the insurance practice of Whitfield Hallam Goodall.
Keoghs appoints pre-litigation chief
Insurance firm Keoghs has hired Steve Thomas, formerly technical claims director for general insurance giant Zurich.
Bevan Brittan out in cold as Zurich revamps UK panel
Insurance giant Zurich has revamped its UK legal panel, with Bevan Brittan losing out while Beachcroft and Pinsent Masons have held on to their spots.
Plexus Law takes over insurance boutique
Professional indemnity firm Plexus Law has acquired insurance boutique Squire & Co.
Pinsents to provide ATE insurance
Pinsent Masons has signed a deal with legal expenses provider FirstAssist Legal Protection that will give the firm delegated authority to broker after-the-event (ATE) insurance.
Riot act
A riot at a detention centre has resulted in a clearer definition of 'damages' in public liability cases, says Richard Mattick
Firm endurance
A raft of changes are hitting the insurance market, but what do they all mean for law firms? Dan Cutts explains.
The bigger the better
Professional indemnity insurance in the coming year will likely be more of a headache for the smaller firms, but the bigger players should have an easier time of it, says Sandra Neilson-Moore
BLG insurance trio in Clydes switch
Clyde & Co has swooped on Barlow Lyde & Gilbert (BLG) to hire insurance partners Roger Doulton, Neil Beresford and Toby Rogers.
ING puts firms on notice for global panel
Dutch financial giant ING has launched a global panel review in the first appraisal of its key advisers in more than five years.
Insurance: Home guard
Can we expect a rash of major directors' and officers' claims to hit the UK? asks John Turnbull
Insurance: Standard bearers
The stormy economic conditions will prove a tough test for reforms intended to improve insurance contract certainty and overall standards. By Paul Wordley and Graham Denny
Kennedys takes eight from Hextalls
Insurance boutique Hextalls has lost a team of eight, including two partners, to Kennedys.
Resolution takeover prompts Pearl cuts
Insurance group Pearl is cutting back its legal function following its £5bn takeover of rival Resolution.
Insurers threaten hikes as negligence claims rise
Professional negligence claims against solicitors have rocketed, prompting underwriters to warn of a 10 per cent hike in solicitors' professional indemnity (PI) insurance rates.
Special reports: Banking and Shipping
The crisis among financial institutions has created a dearth of groundbreaking and unique work for banking and finance lawyers, much of it coming from the regulators.
Personal injury forum elects new chair
Boyes Turner partner Adrian Desmond has been elected as chairman of the Forum of Complex Injury Solicitors (Focis). He replaces Richard Vallance of Charles Russell, who has held the role since 2007.
Hill Dickinson celebrates Maersk's Liverpool relocation
Hill Dickinson celebrates Maersk's Liverpool relocation" /Maersk Line, the shipping company and division of the AP Moller-Maersk Group, announced last week that it will shift its UK headquarters from London to Liverpool later this year.
Professional Negligence Special Report: Event horizon
Regulators are looking afresh at the activities of professionals, and litigation is sure to follow. But how will these claims be paid for? asks Peter Smith.
Professional Negligence Special Report: Out for the count
A rise in claims against professionals generally follows a downturn – and accountants are no exception. Matt Andrews and Barnaby Winckler look at what could be in store.
Professional Negligence Special Report: The ex factor
A recent case provides useful guidance on when a law firm can and cannot act for a former client. Richard Harrison reports.
Weightmans scores plum health and education mandates
Weightmans has been appointed as legal adviser to two public sector bodies in the areas of education and health.
BLG provides swift results on Abbey Life divestment
Barlow Lyde & Gilbert (BLG) has picked up a choice mandate for reinsurer Abbey Life Assurance Company on a £1.5bn insurance portfolio sale to Pacific Life.
Advisers feeling the heat as blame game gets underway
The legal fallout from the economic crisis will be more severe for professional advisers than ever before, professional indemnity lawyers have warned.
Hill Dickinson expands into Singapore
Hill Dickinson is preparing to extend its international footprint with the launch of a Singapore office in March.
Morgan Cole snaps up insurance panel colleague CIP Solicitors
Thames Valley firm Morgan Cole has taken over Bristol-based insurance boutique CIP Solicitors, which has four partners and 75 staff.
Furley Page sets up shop in Lloyd's building
Canterbury-headquartered firm Furley Page has opened in London in a bid to capitalise on the insurance market.
Second coalminers tribunal gets under way
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) today launched a series of allegations of misconduct against six partners at Barnsley-based Raleys Solicitors in relation to their handling of compensation claims from sick coalminers.
Morgan Cole grows in Bristol with local merger
Thames Valley firm Morgan Cole has taken over Bristol-based insurance boutique CIP Solicitors, which has four partners and 75 staff.
Glut of law firms to face actions for negligence
Scores of law firms are in the firing line for professional negligence claims this year, The Lawyer's annual top cases survey reveals.
Opinion: Guilty firms should dig deep and repay miners
Octogenarian Mr Sheppard was pushed into the Manton Miners Welfare in his wheelchair. Frail, elderly and very sick he waited for an hour before springing into action. He leapt from his wheelchair and launched into a tirade against greedy solicitors. Mrs Beckett listened on; her resolve was quiet but equally firm.
Kennedys returns to DLA for fresh pickings
Kennedys returns to DLA for fresh pickings" /DLA Piper's Birmingham office has been hit by a second recruitment assault from insurance heavyweight Kennedys.
Beresfords' reputation left in tatters as miners compensation duo are struck off
Beresfords Solicitors partner Jim Beresford has been struck off along with his colleague Douglas Smith after all but three of 11 allegations of professional misconduct against them were upheld by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT).
Broker alliance offers hope to smaller firms
Legal broker Clarity Connections has teamed up with claims management company AIMS Services to offer up to 20,000 cases a month to small and medium-sized law firms.
Beresfords to launch 'legal supermarket'
Staff at Doncaster-based Beresfords Solicitors, which saw name partner Jim Beresford struck off yesterday, is considering launching Britain's first 'legal services supermarket'.
High cost of ATE claims pushes CFAs to brink of extinction
The conditional fee arrangement (CFA) model is at risk of collapse due to the high level of litigation relating to after-the-event (ATE) insurance premiums.
Class action is one big headache, says Which?
The only consumer body able to bring class actions in the UK has slammed the system for being costly, time-consuming and offering little reward.
Opinion: Insurers and third-party funders should work together
It may be thought that there is an uneasy relationship between after-the-event insurance and third-party funding, but my experiences have shown this is not the case.
'Conduct unbefitting' claim levelled as Beresfords tribunal is extended
The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal hearing against Jim Beresford of Doncaster-based Beresfords Solicitors has been adjourned due to the case proving more technical than expected.
Outward bound: Simon Gildener, Howden
Simon Gildener of insurance brokers Howden is an in-house legal chief with a difference – in what may prove a legal business model of the future, he's there to advise the company's clients as much as his own board.
Camerons´ insurance switch: timely change or risky business?
CMS Cameron McKenna has taken a leap of faith in its decision to relaunch its insurance practice with a focus on contentious work, as revealed by The Lawyer last week (3 November).
Norwich Union legal staff facing costs cull
Norwich Union is to radically overhaul the legal team of its life insurance business, slashing 20 per cent of its annual budget.
Aegon bolsters legal team with new GC role
Leading insurance group Aegon has created the new role of UK general counsel, hiring Shepherd & Wedderburn corporate partner Marian Glen (pictured) for the position.
Eversheds health team decamps to Beachcroft
Eversheds health team decamps to Beachcroft" /Beachcroft has taken an 11-lawyer clinical negligence team from Eversheds in a bid to become the leading healthcare practice in England and Wales.
DWF bags second Weightmans team in a month
Weightmans team in a month" /A seven-strong team is to leave Weightmans for DWF, joining six insurance partners that announced last month they were making an identical move.
Law ambiguous if client money gets lost in the crunch
Trawling through the Solicitors Account Rules (SAR) is not fun, even for a hardened managing partner, general counsel or director of risk. But that is exactly what most of them have been doing in the past few weeks in an attempt to deal with the possibility that the money held by law firms in client accounts could be unprotected in the event of a bank insolvency.
Kennedys takes eight from DLA's Brum office
Insurance firm Kennedys has raided DLA Piper's Birmingham office for eight fee-earners to ramp up its liability and professional negligence capabilities in the region.
Small firms suffer as legal insurers refuse to underwrite in current climate
Following five consecutive years of falling rates, lawyers have been shocked to find that professional indemnity (PI) insurance rates have doubled for the 2009 renewal season. Hardest hit are those already facing a myriad of economic challenges: small firms, sole practitioners and conveyancing practices.
Howden brokerage appoints to new GC role
Lloyds of London's broker, Howden, has appointed Simon Gildener as a client-facing general counsel.
Focus: Kennedys
Kennedys senior partner Nick Thomas has been quick off the mark to react to insurer clients' demands with a series of takeovers. And he predicts further consolidation to come in the sector
Professional negligence body sets up ATE scheme
The Professional Negligence Lawyers Association (PNLA) has launched the largest after-the-event (ATE) insurance group scheme outside of the personal injury sector.
AIG hands $20bn rescue mandate to Sullivan
US insurance giant AIG drafted in Sullivan & Cromwell to advise it on its $20bn (£11.23bn) lifeline from ;New ;York ;State regulators.
Davis Polk, Sullivan & Cromwell land key AIG roles
Sullivan & Cromwell land key AIG roles" /Davis Polk & Wardwell and Sullivan & Cromwell have landed lead roles on the US government $85bn bail out of AIG.
DWF raids Weightmans for six insurance partners
DWF has snared a six-partner insurance team from regional rival Weightmans for its fledgling London office.
Come to London, stay in London
The Court of Appeal precludes escape from narrow vacatur grounds available under the English Arbitration Act 1996
Reed Smith hires trio for Paris shipping practice
Reed Smith has bolstered its French arm with the hire of a three-lawyer shipping team from local Paris firm Bouloy Grellet & Godin.
Lovells, BLG miss out on ACE panel places
ACE European Group, the European arm of one of the world's largest insurers, has overlooked former favourite Lovells on its first formal legal panel.
Resolution GC quits in wake of Pearl takeover
Resolution general counsel Randal Barker has left the company following its takeover by Pearl Group.
Howard Kennedy and Douglas-Mann seal merger
Howard Kennedy has merged with personal injury boutique Douglas-Mann & Co with the aim of bolstering its client base.
Taylor Wessing taps Clydes for insurance hire
Taylor Wessing taps Clydes for insurance hire" /Taylor Wessing has hired Clyde & Co insurance litigation partner Anthony Menzies in a bid to become a bigger player in the insurance field.
Beachcroft lands £4m for injured football hopeful
Beachcroft has secured former Manchester United hopeful Ben Collett more than £4m in compensation after his football career was prematurely ended five years ago.
Zurich cracks down on exaggerated PI claims
Insurance giant Zurich is to establish a hitlist of personal injury (PI) firms in a bid to crack down on claimant practices that bring exaggerated costs orders against it.
Dentons hit by £300K negligence action
Denton Wilde Sapte is facing a £300,000 professional negligence claim from two Indian company directors.
Fladgate faces potential £10m payout as Izodia gets around to negligence action
Fladgate faces potential £10m payout as Izodia gets around to negligence action" /Fladgate may have to pay out in excess of £10m in damages if the negligence action brought against the firm by former dotcom company Izodia is successful.
A proposal for reform or non event?
The purpose of the Ministry of Justice reviewing the personal injury process was because the opinion from both insurers and lawyers alike was that the current process was cumbersome, complex and too costly.
Done and dusted?
With the High Court currently deliberating over the point at which employers – and their insurers – become liable for asbestos claims, the contract law rulebook could well be rewritten.
Not in our names
The Court of Appeal's recent ruling in Tyco v Rolls-Royce means parties to joint-names or composite insurance would do well to insist that the issue of waiver of subrogation is dealt with when contracts are being drawn up.
Heads in the sand
Claims that the insurance industry can somehow sidestep the meltdown of the US financial market are wide of the mark, say Linda Dakin-Grimm and Patty Quilizapa
Special report: Insurance
Insurers everywhere are bracing themselves for an upsurge in claims as the global economy slides into recession. And this when the UK insurance market is experiencing some fundamental changes relating to how it handles claims.
Mills & Reeve boosts insurance team
Mills & Reeve has continued its insurance recruitment spree, hiring Vizards Wyeth partner Nicolas Oldham for its London insurance team. The firm expects to make another lateral insurance hire by the end of the year. This follows the recent hire of professional indemnity partner Elisabeth Taylor from Halliwells in Manchester.
Eversheds, Slaughters in on $1bn Aviva outsourcing
Eversheds and Slaughter and May have bagged the lead roles on a $1bn (£502.3m) outsourcing deal for insurance company Aviva.
PI lawyers slate MoJ on claims reform
Personal injury (PI) lawyers have slammed the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) for its failure to implement far-reaching reform of the claims process.
Kennedys absorbs RPC's Tiverton insurance office
Kennedys absorbs RPC's Tiverton insurance office" /Kennedys has today (28 July) taken over the Tiverton office of its insurance rival Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) and plans to move the staff to Taunton.
PI lawyers slam MoJ's claims reforms
Personal injury (PI) lawyers have slammed the Ministry of Justice for its failure to implement far-reaching reform of the claims process.
RPC offloads Tiverton base to Kennedys
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) is to hand its Tiverton office to insurance rivals Kennedys as a going concern.
Professional negligence: mortgage fraud
In the field of professional liability, mortgage fraud and claims against professionals arising from it remain the topics of the moment.
Dickinson Dees becomes latest downturn victim with 70 redundancies planned
Dickinson Dees is the latest firm to launch redundancy talks, entering consultation with three of the four departments in its volume business.
Professional negligence: Troubled indemnity
Competition among insurers for legal firms' business has rarely been fiercer, but the pressure this is putting on underwriters' rates means some will soon have to walk away from the professional indemnity insurance market altogether, warns Steve Holland
Professional negligence: Getting well soon?
Changes to the way the medical profession is regulated are being brought in for good reasons – but concerns about how they will be implemented still remain.
Professional negligence: An uncivil action
A forthcoming Lords decision in the case of Moore Stephens v Stone & Rolls could well see auditors better protected from spurious claims.
Professional negligence
October will see the end of the solicitors' professional indemnity (PI) insurance season, when lawyers will again benefit from low insurance rates. Lawyers are being warned, though, of an imminent rating correction.
Pinsents, Wragges on super-ships project
Pinsent Masons and Wragge & Co have been handed mandates in a £3bn project to build two new aircraft carriers for the Royal Navy. The Ministry of Defence called on Wragges project partners Michael Whitehouse and Jane Pittaway, supported by IP partner Michael Luckman.
Current economic conditions in the shipping finance market
The shipping and ship finance markets have always seen strong cyclicality - but for once the current driver for change is not from the shipping market itself, but in the financial market with the banking liquidity crisis which originated in the US sub-prime housing market. So, what can an owner expect if it approaches its banks for finance for a ship right now? The most obvious message is that it is going to cost the owner more and it is unlikely to be able to borrow so much.
Spain's ship finance market: special rules on finance leases
Despite the international market's uncertainty and volatility, the ship finance market in Spain is still experiencing rapid and steady growth. This is largely due to growing interest in the field from banks that have been traditionally wary of the sector. These banks, which often restricted their participation in ship ...
Sea change
New rules governing the transportation of goods by sea have been drawn up by the UN. Graham Kershaw looks at what the new convention could mean for goods traders, carriers and shippers
Troutman eyes London insurance market
Atlanta-based Troutman Sanders is planning a move into the London insurance market following the firm's merger with US insurance boutique Ross Dixon & Bell. London managing partner Robert Bata has pledged to hire "aggressively" in the sector following the move.Troutman Sanders' three-partner City outfit does not currently have an insurance capability. ...
Davies Lavery spurns DWF for Kennedys
Insurance firm Davies Lavery knocked back a takeover bid from DWF in favour of a merger with Kennedys, The Lawyer can reveal.
Camerons recruits Jardine insurance guru
CMS Cameron McKenna has boosted its insurance offering by poaching the group legal adviser of insurance broker Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group.
Stephenson Harwood and Norton Rose scoop sharia insurance deal
Stephenson Harwood and Norton Rose have snared lead roles on the outsourcing of sharia-compliant insurance, believed to be the first deal of its kind.Norton Rose, led by partner Mike Rebeiro, advised Principle Insurance on the £90m outsourcing...
Class conscious
One of the areas most likely to see the introduction of new forms of collective claim is the field of antitrust damages claims. On 2 April the European Commission published a white paper setting out concrete proposals to make antitrust damages claims easier to bring. The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) also published its own recommendations to the UK Government on this topic at the end of last year. An important part of both proposals are changes designed to introduce more effective forms ...
Gift aid
Organ donation is in the spotlight as the effects of the Human Tissue Act start to appear. Julie Austin reports on how the law has changed since the Nationwide Retained Organs Group litigation
Personal injury
In May 2007, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) published a set of proposals aimed at radically overhauling the UK's personal injury (PI) system. It aimed to introduce a raft of measures designed to speed up the process with the aim of cutting costs and improving access to justice for both claimants and defendants.
The waiting game
The Ministry of Justice keeps delaying its response to proposals to change the personal injury system, causing massive disruption to law firms. Four lawyers from opposing sides share their concerns
Clinical Negligence
Clinical negligence is an emotive subject.
Mid-market results buoyed by insurance and litigation
A rebound in the insurance and litigation markets helped Davies Arnold Cooper (DAC), Nabarro and Weightmans cushion against a second-half market downturn.
HBJ Gately Wareing secures shipping merger
HBJ Gatelely Wareing is set to merge with niche shipping and transport firm Holmes Hardingham.
Brokers beware
Brokers must take notice of strict guidance from the FSA concerning their duty to the client. David Coupe and Rowena Grundy report.
Chamber of Shipping installs lawyer at top
Martin Watson, founding partner of Watson Farley & Williams, has been elected president of the UK Chamber of Shipping - the first lawyer to occupy this post. Watson has been a senior consultant at his firm since standing down as a partner eight years ago.
Dundee Uni broadens LLB offering
The University of Dundee is introducing a bachelor of law degree that enables students to gain dual-qualification in Scottish and English and Welsh law.
Insurance, a market that impacts on every aspect of life, is forever changing in the eyes of the law. Case law is constantly evolving, impacting on how insurers operate.
Time trials
The House of Lords decision on historical sexual abuse cases is unlikely to result in a torrent of claims being brought, says Kathy Perrin
Green gauge
With the UK facing potential action from Europe over failing to implement the Environmental Liability Directive, perhaps now is the time for action rather than consultation.
Berrymans Lace Mawer promotes six to partner
Berrymans Lace Mawer has promoted six new partners, one fewer than last year.
PI lawyers hit back at insurers' claims of rocketing costs
The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (Apil) has hit out at fresh claims of spiralling costs in the legal arena.
SIF to become insurance claims-handling provider
The Solicitors' Indemnity Fund (SIF) is to become an insurance claims-handling provider in an effort to keep insurance rates down.
Clydes lands CC shipping partner
Clifford Chance shipping partner Paul Turner has defected to Clyde & Co as the firm aims to refocus its shipping practice.
Insurers wade into Akzo row
Insurers have declared that underwriting non-European lawyers looking to run competition cases in the EU would be almost untenable due to the Akzo Nobel ruling.
Irwin Mitchell aiming for £150m turnover
Irwin Mitchell aiming for £150m turnover" / Irwin Mitchell managing partner Howard Culley has been re-elected in his 20th year in office and is predicting a 35 per cent rise in turnover to £150m by the end of the financial year.
RPC leads insurance charge to Bermuda
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) is sending a reconnaissance team to Bermuda to scout the possibility of launching on the island.
Slaughters leads in standard life offload
Standard Life has turned to long-term adviser Slaughter and May in a deal that will see the life insurance giant offload annuity liabilities worth £6.7bn to Canada Life.
Singapore lures West's insurance heavyweights
In September 2006 the prime minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong urged London's leading insurance figures to look east for investment opportunities. The insurance market has since responded with vigour and Lloyd's of London is thriving in the region.
Kennedys in insurance bid with launch in Singapore
Kennedys is set to launch a Singapore office in the summer with the aim of servicing its insurance clients.
Genworth set for rethink of European panel as new counsel takes the reins
Insurance giant Genworth Financial will be reviewing its European panel firms after merging the legal departments of its payment protection and mortgage insurance businesses.
An uncertain future
Personal injury lawyers now have another deadline. The Ministry of Justice has at last made a statement on the proposed claims process reforms for personal injury claims, following the consultation which closed in July last year.
TAG law firms settle with insurers
Manchester-based solicitors Rowe Cohen and a raft of other personal injury firms have come to a settlement in The Accident Group (TAG) litigation.
Clydes says US growth is 'urgent priority'
Clyde & Co's US insurance and reinsurance chief Michael Knoerzer has declared that expansion in the US is an urgent priority for the firm, which has hired a partner to boost its transatlantic presence.
Insurers threaten to sue over flood losses
UK insurers Norwich Union and Allianz are looking at whether they can sue water authorities for failing to prevent the floods this summer.
Keelys bolts on Burrells to London office
Keelys Solicitors has acquired insurance defendant specialist Burrells. The Lichfield-headquartered firm said Burrells would be merged with Keelys London. Burrells partners Derek Burrell and Eamonn Clifford will work directly with Keelys head of costs litigation Simon Murray. Burrells specialises in complex and high-value claims and recoveries for insurers. Keelys managing partner Daniel Keane said the acquisition would boost the firm's national presence.
MoJ reforms spark insurance revolution
Norwich Union and Royal & SunAlliance are reviewing their panels in anticipation of a Ministry of Justice overhaul of the PI claims system.
Catherine Regan: RGA International
With a role that encompasses Africa, Europe and Asia, RGA International's new global counsel Catherine Regan has a lot to get to grips with.
Ince & Co names next senior partner
Ince & Co's head of marine casualty James Wilson has been chosen to succeed Peter Rogan as the firm's senior partner in April.
BLG raids Hardwicke for PI barristers
Barlow Lyde & Gilbert (BLG) has hired three personal injury lawyers as part of its expansion of its casualty practice.
Kendall Freeman seals US merger as insurance market reaches saturation
London-based Kendall Freeman's merger with Boston firm Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge last Tuesday (30 October) has sparked speculation about which UK firm is next for a transatlantic merger.
BLG strengthens Singapore shipping team
Barlow Lyde & Gilbert (BLG) has raided shipping boutique Thomas Cooper for marine partner Drew James.
Kendall Freeman merges with US firm Edwards Angell
London-based Kendall Freeman is to merge with Boston-based US firm Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge.
Greenwoods launches in Manchester
Personal injury boutique Greenwoods is gearing up for aggressive growth after launching an office in Manchester.
Camerons reunites insurance group
CMS Cameron McKenna has rejoined one half of its insurance group to the other in its new City offices in Leadenhall Street.The team was separated when Camerons opened for business there in July 2006 in a bid to be closer to the insurance markets. The move fits in with the firm's new sector-focused strategy, in which insurance and reinsurance was a key practice area.
DLA Piper hires CC lawyer in Hong Kong
DLA Piper has hired Clifford Chance senior associate William Harrison as a partner in its Asian insurance practice.
RGA bags RiverStone counsel for global role
US reinsurance giant RGA International has hired RiverStone Management general counsel and company secretary Catherine Regan as international legal counsel.
Clydes swoops on LeBoeuf for NY insurance
Clyde & Co has recruited LeBoeuf Lamb Greene & MacRae partner Michael Knoerzer in New York to spearhead the firm's assault on the US insurance and reinsurance market.
In a bind
Insurers are finally being dragged into line with the rest of the business world, with a consultation paper on contract law set to shake up the industry. Richard Evans and Tom Watkinson report
Trouble at the top
The Companies Act has placed greater weight on directors' liability in shareholder claims. Anthony Menzies reports on how the D&O insurance market is set for a boon
Weather warning
Insurers stand to lose more than most if the predictions on climate change hold true. Ashley Prebble and Natalie Perkin report on the industry's response to the scientific evidence
Lovells, O'Melveny pave way for Prudential's South African tie-up
Lovells and O'Melveny & Myers have steered a landmark joint venture between UK insurance giant Prudential and its South African counterpart Discovery.
Addleshaws looks to insurance group litigation…
Addleshaw Goddard's insurance practice is linking up with its newly created class actions group as the firm repositions itself in expectation of an economic downturn.
Holman secures Dubai partner from Clydes
Michael Pilkington has joined Holman Fenwick & Willan's Dubai office as a partner.
Kennedys set to launch in Manchester
Insurance law firm Kennedys has announced plans to open an office in Manchester.
Anti-lawyer insurer report dubbed 'highly suspicious'
Lawyers have lashed out at research from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) that says that injury claims on motor policies take 90 days longer to settle if a lawyer is consulted.
Conveyancing and PI most negligent practice areas
Property and personal injury (PI) work spawned the highest number of negligence claims against solicitors in the first three quarters of 2007, according to professional indemnity insurance broker Lockton Professions.
CC sends London insurance lawyer to Hong Kong
Clifford Chance has continued its mobility strategy with the transfer of a senior associate from London to Hong Kong.
Davies Lavery in double partner swoop
Insurance specialist Davies Lavery has hired two insurance partners, including Halliwells London head of insurance, reinsurance and professional indemnity John Groome.
Pru hires Freshfields refusenik to unlock fund
Former Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer restructuring head Peter Bloxham has reappeared as a "policyholder advocate" at Prudential just as the insurance giant instructed Freshfields on a headline deal with troubled mutual Equitable Life.
Where's your tax at?
Cross-border insurance transactions are likely to throw up tax problems. Greg Sinfield and John Young look at how Zurich in particular is addressing the issue
All accord?
Insurers and reinsurers across the EU await the forthcoming Solvency II regime with bated breath. Martin Mankabady reports
Playing the claim
A forthcoming review of the whole personal injury claims system can help eradicate false claims and make the whole process more consensual. Lea Brocklebank reports
Zurich singles out six firms for global panel
Insurance giant Zurich has concluded its secretive review of global advisers, with six firms making it on to its preferred list.
Ince pleads innocence in discrimination case
Ince & Co has been hit with a sex and disability discrimination claim from a former reinsurance lawyer who left the firm last April.
BLG partner joins Primary Group
Insurance distribution company Primary Group has appointed Barlow Lyde & Gilbert (BLG) partner David Arthur as group corporate counsel. A partner in BLG's professional liability and commercial litigation team, Arthur joins Primary after 24 years at the firm – 20 of those as a partner. His experience includes acting for large accountants and insurance firms in litigation, including the BCCI and Barings cases. Primary is headquartered in Bermuda and has broking and underwriting capabilities.
CC insurance head boosts DLA Germany
DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary has secured German insurance capability for the first time with the hire of Clifford Chance insurance expert Herbert Palmberger.
DWS to fight on after raid by Chadbourne
Denton Wilde Sapte (DWS) will rebuild its London contentious insurance and reinsurance practice after losing its five-partner group to Chadbourne & Parke.
Spitzer probe hands Clydes work
Clyde & Co has picked up 10 mandates in London relating to the investigation launched by US Attorney General Eliot Spitzer into broker Marsh & McLennan (M&M). These include an instruction from Munich Re to look at the terms and conditions of its broking relationships.
RPC looks to Akin capture for insurance face-lift
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) is kick-starting a new insurance regulatory and brokers group with the hire of a partner from Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld.
WTC attack deemed to be two events
Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz last week secured a major victory over the World Trade Centre's insurers after a jury ruled that the 11 September attacks constituted two separate occurrences for insurance purposes.
DLA targets Aussie, Indian link-ups
Australian and Indian law firms have emerged as unlikely targets for DLA ahead of this Saturday's (4 December) vote on the merger with Chicago's Piper Rudnick.
Personal injury discount rate proposal agitates authorities
THE Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) have distanced themselves from recommendations made in the latest edition of the tables used to calculate personal injury compensation.
Beachcrofts head undertakes CII chairmanship
Beachcroft Wansbroughs senior partner Lord Hunt of Wirral is taking on a new role as chair of the Chartered Insurance Institute's (CII) professional standards board. Hunt will be in charge of the launch of the CII's new code of ethics and conduct, which is being designed to give a code of conduct for institute members and the industry as a whole. The institute is a professional organisation for those working in the financial services and insurance industries.
Robin Simon Llp
Tucked away in the heart of London's insurance hub, between the London Underwriting Centre and Lloyd's, is a niche firm with a global reach.
Richards Butler hires insurance ace for London
Richards Butler has bolstered its insurance and reinsurance group with the lateral hire of Hill Dickinson partner Chris Zavos, who joins as a partner in London. Zavos has expertise in the marine and energy insurance sectors. At Hill Dickinson, Zavos advised underwriters on coverage issues in a broad range of hull, cargo, energy, yacht, construction and liability issues.
Covering up
From a small Lloyd's syndicate to an international powerhouse in the space of a decade. Joanne Harris on how the Catlin Group achieved its rise to prominence
Eversheds lures Hill Dickinson key man
Eversheds has poached the head of claims management from Hill Dickinson, its biggest competitor in the high-volume business.
Top 20 firms see professional indemnity insurance rates drop
The cost of professional indemnity insurance cover for the top 20 UK law firms dropped by up to 10 per cent this year, according to research for The Lawyer.
DLA Group entices Polish firm Lukowicz into the fold
DLA's international association DLA Group is expanding its presence in Eastern Europe after securing its first Polish member.
Lupicinio Eversheds in double Spanish link-up
Eversheds' Spanish alliance partner Lupicinio Eversheds has tied up with two niche practices.
Zurich cost-cutting sees global review of advisers
Insurer Zurich has launched a global review of its external legal services in a move to rationalise its legal spend and will form its first official panel of preferred advisers as part of the process.
Barlows spearheads growth in Asia with Singapore launch
Barlow Lyde & Gilbert is opening an office in Singapore as part of its planned expansion in Asia.
It's that time of year again – the solicitors' professional indemnity renewal season, when managing partners and finance directors start recognising the difference between managing their third-highest overhead throughout the year, or leaving it to chance.
FSA warns insurers to control legal risk
The input of in-house legal teams at life insurers has come under the spotlight following warnings from the Financial Services Authority (FSA) that some companies are not exercising sufficient control over legal risk.
Norton Rose cements Admiral, QBE relationships
Norton Rose has consolidated its relationship with two of Europe's largest insurers. The firm scooped a key role on the initial public offering (IPO) of Admiral and associate Adrian Williams landed the general counsel role at QBE.
Legal Risk
Twelve months ago in Liverpool, a new kind of niche firm was born. Sue Mawdsley and Frank Maher left Weightman Vizards to set up a risk management consultancy called Legal Risk. They claim its principal aim is to save its clients money. "Our main focus is on helping firms save more than they spend. We saved one firm half a million pounds last year," says Maher.
Dream scheme
Solvent schemes of arrangement and other exit strategies are helping to keep London at the head of the insurance market, say Ian McKenna and Richard Gregorian
Blasts from the past
With the removal of barristers' immunity from negligence actions, a raft of claims was predicted. But as John Bennett reports, this has not transpired
SAC race
The development of public legislation relating to segregated accounts companies is proving beneficial to the insurance market in Bermuda. Neil Horner reports
James Chapman boosts catastrophic injury
Manchester insurance litigation firm James Chapman & Co has expanded its specialist catastrophic injury team with the appointment of partner Philip D'Netto. D'Netto, recently a partner with Ilford firm Edward Duthie Solicitors, specialises in advising insurance clients on catastrophic injury cases. He brings with him client Highway Insurance.
Irwin Mitchell names Knaggs as new Leeds leader
Irwin Mitchell's Leeds office has appointed a new managing partner.
Risk managers become popular choice for firms
Half of the UK's top 20 firms have responded to growing threats of negligence claims by appointing full-time risk managers.
Indemnity deadline pushes claim-cutting up the agenda
Risk management is now a full-time job at the UK's biggest law firms. Joanne Harris reports
Merriman White still open for business
In our article of 9 August 2004 about Merriman White, we reported that the firm was closed for business. We understand however that the firm has been taken over by two new partners: Andrew Crossley and Dominic Murphy, who have bought the practice from its former partners. Merriman White acts for the majority of its predecessor's clients and employs the vast majority of its support staff and fee-earners and, as before, will be a specialist practice in its core areas of commercial and ...
Kirkland rainmaker lands top job at Conseco
A leading corporate partner from Kirkland & Ellis has been appointed as president and chief executive of recovering US insurance giant Conseco.
Markel International in legal head first
Insurance group Markel International has appointed its first ever head of legal.
Careers: people
Davies Arnold Cooper has announced a trio of promotions and a new appointment at associate partner level. Janie Castle joins the commercial litigation team in London from Paul Hastings Janofsky & Walker, while Gillian Dada, Mark Shaya and Crispin Tomlinson have all been promoted to associate partner level in the product liability, insurance and property divisions. The promotions follow the recent announcement of five new equity partners at the firm.
Ranald Munro: Chubb Insurance Company of Europe
With multiple roles for Chubb Insurance, Ranald Munro can keep a watchful eye on all proceedings, from EU legislation to management plans. Joanne Harris reports
Allseas liable for DWS fees as P&I club Gard wins cap
Insurers have pulled out of providing legal expenses cover in an arbitration that has grossed the largest lawyers' fees – some £100m – in any case of its kind in English history.
Anglian Water to dictate firms to Willis
Anglian Water is set to impose a legal panel on its insurance claims handler Willis.
Profits up at Kendall Freeman
Niche insurance and litigation firm Kendall Freeman has reported a 44.3 per cent rise in profits in its first full year since the demise of DJ Freeman.
Corporate deals round-up
Clifford Chance (David Lewis) acted for Luxembourg steel producer Arcelor on acquiring a 33.75 per cent stake in Companhia Siderúrgica de Tubarão worth $579m (£311.8m), increasing Arcelor's overall holding in the company to 62 per cent. Vieira Rezende Barbosa e Guerreiros acted ...
Law Soc, The St Paul rekindle joint venture
The Law Society and insurance giant The St Paul have renewed their joint venture for at least another five years. They have collaborated since the abolition of the Solicitors Indemnity Fund in 2000. The St Paul has since become a leading professional indemnity player, insuring around 20 per cent of the solicitors' market. First revealed on www.thelawyer.com 29 June
EU money laundering directive under fire
The Council of the Bars and Law Societies of the European Union (CCBE) this week criticised the introduction of a third European money laundering directive.
Leo Abse & Cohen
Ian Hopkins, managing partner of South Wales law firm Leo Abse & Cohen (LAC), makes no bones about how the firm needed a shake-up two years ago. "We recognised that big changes were needed and went through an enormous cultural shift," he admits. "We were a sleeping giant, but we've woken up."
Free trade
Despite two years of a hard insurance market and rising professional indemnity premiums, Trevor Moss argues that law firms are better off in the open market than under SIF
Team goes to Gardner Carton as Lovells dumps Chicago litigation
Lovells is closing its niche commodities and securities litigation practice in Chicago, a move that will lead to the departure of litigation partner Timothy Carey and two associates.
My, my. The timing couldn't have been better. A week after Barry O'Brien's team at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer was thrown off the M&S bid, Law Society president Peter Williamson was giving delegates at The St Paul risk management conference an insight into the way the new conflicts rules were shaping up.
Norton Rose gifted Amlin corporate role
Norton Rose is the major beneficiary of FTSE 250 insurance company Amlin's first legal panel for non-insurance-related work. Linklaters will continue as its key corporate adviser, but Norton Rose will act on corporate and regulatory issues. Group general counsel James Healy-Pratt will focus on forming a legal panel for ...
Sidley scoops China Life class action
Sidley Austin Brown & Wood has beaten US rival Shearman & Sterling to win a mandate to defend China Life Insurance in a class action against the company.
Have-a-go Henriettas
A recent industry report has rubbished the idea of a compensation culture, but with businesses being put under increasing pressure from insurance premiums, who can identify where the real problems lie? Jon Robins reports
The St Paul launches 'Lifeboat' for LLPs
Professional indemnity insurer The St Paul is launching a new product especially for law firms that convert to limited-liability partnership (LLP) status.
Lovells splits group for asbestos onslaught
Lovells has split its contentious insurance, professional indemnity and environment group in preparation for an anticipated rise in asbestos claims.
Viruses poison client relationships
A new survey has revealed that UK law firms are losing clients as a result of computer viruses.
Hempsons secures £250K of withheld fees for NHS class action rape case
After months of stand-off, insurers last week agreed to pay out almost £250,000 in legal fees owed to Hempsons Solicitors, which defended the NHS against a large-scale class action funded partly by conditional fee arrangements (CFAs).
Herbert Smith frozen out of Standard Life demutualisation
Standard Life has finally held a beauty parade for its massive demutualisation, but it is understood that the mutual has not asked Herbert Smith's star corporate insurance team to pitch for the work.
Richards Butler sails off with Hill Taylor man
Hill Taylor Dickinson's maritime insurance department has been hit with the loss of another key partner, Chris Zavos, who is joining Richards Butler.
Fasken boosts London team with Osler hire
Canadian firm Fasken Martineau has bolstered its presence in London with the hire of Canadian Jim Lisson, formerly a partner with Osler Hoskin & Harcourt.
Careers: People
South West firm Bond Pearce has made three internal partner appointments: Bristol-based property litigator James Rees, Bristol-based insurance litigator Nathan Peacey and Southampton-based corporate finance specialist Sebastian Briggs.
Covering costs
Professional indemnity cover is continuing to rise to astronomic proportions. Lynne Abess reports on how partnerships are responding
Halliwells see revenue jump in record year
Halliwell Landau has posted its highest-ever turnover for the last financial year after revenue grew by 12.7 per cent to £40m.
Hill Taylor counts third maritime insurance partner loss
Hill Taylor Dickinson's maritime insurance department has been hit with the loss of another key partner, this time to Richards Butler.
World Trade Center leaseholder fails in bid to increase insurance pay-out
The titanic battle between two of the New York bar's trial heavyweights is nearing its end after a US federal jury rejected World Trade Center leaseholder Larry Silverstein's bid to effectively double his insurance payments from Swiss Re.
Bond Pearce ups the ante on South West with new premises
Bond Pearce has signed a deal to take 50,000 sq ft of space in a new Bristol development as the firm continues its attack on the South West market.
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain announces new senior partner
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain has appointed a new senior partner after the present incumbent stepped down after 12 years in the role.
Bond Pearce in clinical negligence expansion
Bond Pearce in clinical negligence expansion" /Bond Pearce has launched a claimant clinical negligence practice in Bristol as it continues to expand its insurance defence offering.
In-House Sector Focus: Brave new world
London's insurance market is having to adapt to survive. Jodi Bartle speaks to the top in-house lawyers working in the sector
Reaction time
The repercussions of 11 September are still being felt by the insurance industry, which is making some important changes. Marian Boyle reports
Exchange rate
The downgrading of many top reinsurance companies by ratings agencies has raised a number of serious questions. Simon Kilgour reports
Safe keeping
When the value of a company's intangible assets is sky high, insurance to cover any losses is essential. Matthew Hogg reports
Trouble for the top
The regulatory spotlight has now fallen on senior management in the insurance sector, which should beware of the FSA. By Nigel Davenport
Dechert departure spurs insurance withdrawal
Dechert's London office is pulling out of the insurance market following the departure of partner James Lewis to LeBoeuf Lamb Greene & MacRae. Lewis, who became a partner in the firm in 1992, is expected to leave Dechert at the end of this week. His departure follows that of Charles Brown, head of Dechert's City construction practice, who is moving to the London office of Philadelphia firm Duane Morris.
Lovells lands Pru Cannes instruction
Lovells has tightened its hold on key client Prudential, with the firm advising the insurance giant on a development project located in the heart of Cannes.
Hextalls scoops Mendes & Mount duo
London-based firm Hextalls is continuing to strengthen its US hold with the appointment of two partners in New York. Mendes & Mount partners Matthew Byrne and Lawrence Rose have joined Hextalls' reinsurance team, which is based on Wall Street. Byrne and Rose will represent domestic and international reinsurance companies in the US and London.
Simmons boosts China with Minter Ellison hire
Simmons & Simmons is continuing to ramp up its mainland China practice with the appointment of Minter Ellison's former managing partner to its Shanghai office.
Steptoe & Johnson acquires Oppenheimer's Brussels base
US firm Steptoe & Johnson has become the first firm to benefit from the dismantling of Oppenheimer Wolff & Donnelly's European network.
Ricksons to spin off its claimant insurance arm
North West firm Ricksons is poised to dispose of its claimant insurance arm Axis Solicitors, as part of the firm's strategic shift towards corporate and commercial work.
Hextalls in defensive move with Beachcrofts hire
Hextalls is continuing its attack on the London market, with the hire of Beachcroft Wansbroughs insurance litigation partner Dominic Dennis-Browne to head the firm's professional indemnity department. Dennis-Browne specialises in defending claims against a number of professions, including solicitors, with particular expertise in claims involving dishonesty. The hire comes just two weeks after the firm took on Druces & Atlee partner Stephen Kingsley to head commercial property.
Hextalls raids Beachcrofts for new professional indemnity head
Hextalls is continuing its attack on the London market, with the hire of Beachcroft Wansbrough's insurance litigation partner Dominic Dennis-Browne to head the firm's professional indemnity department.
Millions wasted as SFO witness in money laundering case is rejected
The Serious Fraud Office's (SFO) use of a former solicitor – described by a judge as a "liar" and a "thief" – as a leading witness in its prosecution of an $11.5m (£6.1m) money laundering scam has led to the collapse of the case, which cost millions of taxpayers' money. The case concerned the alleged laundering of proceeds from a fraudulent high-yield investment scheme through the client accounts of several law firms, including the now defunct Swepstone Walsh.
…as SFO drops £10m action
After racking up at least £10m in legal fees, the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has abandoned a case after being told of a crucial legal point that lawyers argue it should have been aware of from the outset.
Scottish Re scores Royal & SunAlliance heavyweight
The UK arm of Bermuda-based life reinsurer Scottish Re has appointed George Scott as its first ever in-house lawyer.
Manjit Katoara: Letsure
Insurance company Letsure's in-house legal team is unique in acting for clients outside the company. By Steve Hoare
Four New Square swoops for 2 Temple silk
2 Temple Gardens has lost a second silk to professional negligence set Four New Square. Jeremy Stuart Smith QC, an insurance and products liability specialist who acted for claimants in the MMR litigation, joined Justin Fenwick QC's set last week. It follows the arrival last July of 2 Temple's Graham Eklund QC, a professional negligence silk, and product liability expert David Turner.
Camerons insurance ace quits for GE ERC
CMS Cameron McKenna is losing high-profile and highly-rated insurance and reinsurance partner Mark Elborne to an in-house position at US conglomerate GE.
Camerons wins in bittersweet partner loss
CMS Cameron McKenna is losing a partner but potentially gaining more work as one of its lawyers joins the insurance and reinsurance division of US conglomerate GE.
Martineaus pensions chief quits for Pinsents
Martineau Johnson's head of pensions Simon Laight has quit the firm to join Pinsents' Birmingham office.
Steptoe scoops CC lawyer for insurance push
Steptoe & Johnson is branching out into the UK insurance and reinsurance market after setting up a new practice with the hire of a former Clifford Chance senior associate.
Bingham gears up for bondholder battle in Parmalat scandal
Bingham McCutchen has been drafted into to fight for bondholders in the ever-worsening financial crisis surrounding Italian food group Parmalat.
Five-partner team snubs DLA Dutch merger
Five partners of Dutch firm SchutGrosheide are launching their own practice, after disagreeing with the firm's decision to merge with DLA.
Master of the Rolls sticks up for accident victims
The Master of the Rolls has attacked the UK's record on looking after accident victims. Lord Phillips of Worth Matravers (left) asked the Government to back the rehabilitation of those affected in its plans to deal with the spiralling costs of employers' liability insurance. He told delegates at the Forum of Insurance Lawyers annual conference ...
Field Seymour lures partner from Dentons
Reading firm Field Seymour Parkes has broken into the insurance and reinsurance market with the hire of Denton Wilde Sapte partner James Pilgrim-Morris.
Field Seymour Parkes hires Dentons partner
Pilgrim-Morris is an insurance litigator, with particular expertise in Lloyd's work, reinsurance and product liability disputes. Although Field Seymour already has a commercial litigation capability, this is the firsttime it has been able to offer ins...
Picking the Rock
The benefits of EU membership, a flexible tax system and grass roots support is seeing the insurance industry flourish in Gibraltar. Brendan Murphy and Nick Keeling report
The Bermuda angle
Benjamin Dyer reports on financing alternatives for Bermuda captives
Brit finalises first formal legal panel
Brit Insurance, the UK insurance subsidiary of Brit Insurance Holdings, has created its first formal legal panel.
Brit Insurance completes first legal panel
Brit Insurance, the UK insurance subsidiary of Brit Insurance Holdings, has created its first formal legal panel. Many of Brit's previous advisers have lost out in the review, which has formalised a smaller number of law firm relationships. The full review of service providers kicked off in April and formed part of Brit's strategic development of claims handling processes.
BLM takes on Jacksons' insurance arm
The seven-partner insurance department of North-East firm Jacksons, which this year announced it was splitting in two, has found a new home with Berrymans Lace Mawer (BLM).
The main event
What is the difference between an 'event' and an 'occurrence'? Charles Bending reports on recent insurance cases that have tried to clear up the debate
Liar liar
Should fraudulent insureds lose the legitimate part of their claim or just the inflated part? Alison Hart reports on the diminishing duty of good faith within the insurance market
The middle man
In response to the Insurance Mediation Directive, the FSA is slapping yet more regulations on insurance intermediaries. Maria Ross discusses the implications
Kendall Freeman wins Victoria Seguros work
A recommendation from the magic circle has awarded Kendall Freeman a new client in the guise of Germany's Ergo Group subsidiary Victoria Seguros.
Insurance litigation firms reap the benefits with profit hikes
The top five insurance firms have all enjoyed massive profit hikes this year as their clients become increasingly litigious in today's hardened market.Kennedys, the best performer, saw profits per equity partner rise by 25 per cent, Beachcroft Wansbroughs profits went up 18 per cent and Reynolds Porter Chamberlain's went up 10 per cent, while Barlow Lyde & Gilbert and Clyde & Co's both saw an 8 per cent increase.Kennedys chief executive Ric Martin said: "There's a link ...
Premiums to soar as post-SIF honeymoon ends
After three years of cheap cover on the open market, law firms this year will pay more for their primary-level insurance than they did in the year that the Solicitors Indemnity Fund (SIF) collapsed.
Legacy Biddle partners to quit Pinsents after strategy review
Pinsents is saying goodbye to three partners and four assistants, originally from its 2001 London merger partner Biddle, following strategy and performance reviews.
The Accident Group's (TAG) founder Mark Langford is not known for his personal touch. Earlier in the year, an attempt at an interview with The Lawyer had to be called off after he became indisposed at the last moment. Not a problem, his PR guy said, we'll just send in his QC and you can attribute his words to the boss. Call us fussy, we replied, but it is a journalistic convention that the subject of a profile be in attendance for his own interview. So it's not surprising to learn that ...
Lovells against pro-consumer product liability directive
Lovells has completed a ground-breaking study of product liability law for the European Commission. The City firm has recommended that the commission drops plans laid out in its 1999 green paper for radical reform of the product liability directive.
Russell Jones & Walker says New Claims Direct is no TAG
Russell Jones & Walker (RJW) has sought to distance its New Claims Direct service from that of The Accident Group (TAG), which collapsed last week, as well as from the old Claims Direct service, which RJW purchased in February 2003.
4 Essex Court boosts commercial by four
The chambers of 4 Pump Court has been hit by the loss of three tenants, including respected commercial specialist Lindsay Boswell QC, to shipping and commercial chambers 4 Essex Court, which has also hired the eminent Littleton Chambers silk Julian Malins QC.
Jacksons to split in two within months
North East firm Jacksons has announced that it is splitting its core areas of business into two new firms, with effect from 1 September.
Brick Court wins barrister from 2 Temple Gardens
Brick Court Chambers has recruited Tim Lord from 2 Temple Gardens. Lord has focused on personal injury and insurance work in the past, but has been signed to assist Brick Court with its banking and financial services work. He spent 10 years at 2 Temple Gardens after qualifying at Slaughter and May.
Minters raids Phillips Fox in Adelaide
Minter Ellison has rocked the Adelaide office of Phillips Fox by poaching almost 25 per cent of its lawyers.
Axa warns panel firms as it starts cost-cutting review
Sixteen law firms on tenterhooks as insurance giant set to chop panel places; no chance to retender
Weathering the winter
When Sandra Basaran was hired by Winterthur Life, she got more than she bargained for. Husnara Begum reports
Hang the DJ
There are no regrets for DJ Freeman's David Kendall and Laurence Harris as Kendall Freeman is born. Emma Vere-Jones investigates
Ince and Weil Gotshal set for insurance litigation face-off
Ince & Co and Weil Gotshal & Manges could end up suing each other as a result of a complex film finance litigation suit.
Big ideas
Following a period of aggressive expansion via numerous acquisitions, insurance outsourcer Rubicon is also trying to cut its legal costs. Husnara Begum investigates
Speak no evil
Enthusiastic one minute and prickly the next, Davies Arnold Cooper's Daniel Gowan doesn't like to talk about the past. Julia Cahill reports
Lloyd's of London Names are a dying breed at the oldest insurance market in the world. Down from 35,000 to just 2,490 unlimited liability Names today, individual investors are regarded as an anachronistic throwback needing to be helped into extinction by reform-hungry corporate investors.Sax Riley, the chairman of Lloyd's, has called for members to vote in favour of seeking to update the 1982 act of Parliament that governs the insurance market. An extraordinary meeting ...
Claims Direct has come crashing down to earth. As with all good tragic characters, fatal and inescapable flaws have caused this one-time darling of the London Stock Exchange to self-destruct. Investors' rocky love affair with the personal injury (PI) revolutionary/ambulance-chasing scumbag (depending on your point of view) finally came to an acrimonious end earlier this month.Claims Direct, whose shares had traded for as much as £3.60, called in the administrators when ...
Reluctant hero
DJ Freeman's new head of corporate Richard Spiller doesn't know why he landed the role, but Kathryn Hobbs is sure he is the right man for the job
Summer is finally here, bringing Wimbledon, ice-creams and unsightly upper arms to the fore. For law firms it also signals the start of the professional indemnity (PI) renewal season. Firms have until the end of August to sort out their PI arrangements, so how does the land lie this year?The PI open market has been in effect for two years since the demise of the Solicitors' Indemnity Fund (SIF) in 2000. Last year the open market generated around £160m in premium income, compared ...
It's that time of year again. The results of a year-long endeavour are awaited and while jubilation awaits the winners, heartache and a 'maybe-next-year' mentality beckons to the losers. Eurovision has been and gone, but The Lawyer Awards - the definitive reckoning of law firm performance - still have to be decided.Insurance firms do not have their own awards category, preferring to enter for litigation or corporate team of the year. So, for one column only, and ...
Law firms and their insurance clients are strange bedfellows. While insurers claim that their lawyers do not work quickly, efficiently and certainly not cheaply enough, lawyers argue that their clients do not understand the vagaries of handling a claim. It is therefore a market with raised eyebrows that monitors the progress of new technology risk insurer Click for Cover and its strategic partner Hammond Suddards Edge.Click is an underwriting agency for a number of Lloyd's of ...
The insurance industry has become the latest bunny to be stunned by the oncoming headlights of the Financial Services Authority (FSA) and its cavalcade of regulators. Since assuming its full powers at the end of November 2001, the FSA has publicly avowed to ramp up regulation of the UK's insurance industry.Regulatory costs are anticipated to rise 10 per cent this year, with the same again the next, as FSA resources are redirected towards the insurance market and away from ...
Risk drive
Title insurers may not be the most popular US import among UK lawyers, but First Title's legal and underwriting director Philip Oldcorn believes there is room for all. Helen Power reports
In a costs hearing last week, Amelans successfully rebuffed an argument which stated that an after the event (ATE) insurance policy provided by Temple Legal Protection should be regarded as a credit arrangement. It was the third in a series of similar cases involving Amelans and Temple and the latest attempt to find a loophole sufficiently large for defendant insurers to squeeze through.The costs hearing was nothing unusual. The legal arguments were inventive and well made, with ...
Fit for the job
Robin Spencer isn't the type of man to give himself an easy ride - sorting out the Equitable debacle for work, and for fun running across the Sahara
If Lovells has its way at the High Court, this week should see the conclusion of Equitable Life's att-empts to steer a course for the less troubled waters of a compromise scheme of arrangement. Its progress has not always been smooth. A number of disgruntled former and current policyholders have attempted to run the scheme aground with threats of litigation. But, with Lovells at the rudder, Equitable seems set to achieve the outcome it needs.The mutual, although never far ...
Alive and kicking
Canada Life UK may have been lying low for a while but the acquisitive company is ever on the lookout for that perfect purchase. Naomi Rovnick discovers it is still a client to watch
Camerons breaks new ground as Lords finds broker negligent
CMS Cameron McKenna has scored an insurance victory over Clifford Chance in the House of Lords. A ruling this week upheld the 1999 Court of Appeal decision that reinsurance brokers Johnson & Higgins (J&H) were negligent in their dealings with Aneco Reinsurance. The result marks the first successful claim of its type against ...
Prudential chooses 'better legal service' from Elliott Duffy Garrett
Life insurance giant Prudential has appointed Belfast firm Elliott Duffy Garrett as its main adviser for property investment work in Northern Ireland.
Legal insurers list dwindles two years after SIF's demise
Eight insurers opt to leave the Law Society's minimum terms list despite premium hike of fifteen per cent
Under cover
Following the demise of SIF, Aon Claims Solutions decided to second private practice lawyers rather than have its own in-house team. Fiona Callister finds out how the scheme is going
Weighed down
Weightmans has been axed from two panels, lost its retail and leisure team and seen merger talks collapse, but senior partner Ian Evans is fighting on
Going great Gunns
Once you get past the complex structure of St Paul's international empire, it is a client that would be a feather in any firm's cap. Fiona Callister finds out that a communication specialist is what's needed
Treat me right
Skandia Life head of legal Ken Morrison won't take any sloppiness from laws firms. Fiona Callister talks to a man for whom impeccable customer service is a given
Herbert Smith lands on its feet
Herbert Smith has come out on top in the current Independent Insurance collapse.
Berrymans and Druces & Attlee sign formal alliance agreement
Regional insurance firm Berrymans Lace Mawer has signed a commercial agreement with 14-partner City firm Druces & Attlee in a bid to provide its clients with a wider portfolio of legal services.`The formal agreement is the first of its kind for Berrymans, which lost more than half of its Liverpool-based commercial department to rival North West firm Brabner Holden Banks Wilson seven months ...
Buchanans targets insurance with Denton Wilde partner hire
Pittsburgh firm Buchanan Ingersoll is taking on a partner from Denton Wilde Sapte to spearhead a move into insurance work.
CC hires insurance ace from CGNU
Clifford Chance has recruited Ian MacDonald, group legal counsel at CGNU, to its global financial institutions group.
The social worker
LeBoeuf's James Johnson loves the London life but after six years he is looking forward to returning to New York, despite the different working style
The butcher boy
Hextall Erskine senior partner John Bundy fell into law by accident. But the chance stops there- purposefulness has been his driving force ever since
Berrymans prepares for South West merger with Cartwrights
Insurance firm Berrymans Lace Mawer is set to merge with Bristol-based firm Cartwrights.
Nick Carter: Capital One
After testing the water in the UK, Capital One is expanding into Europe. Brendan Malkin meets Nick Carter, the man charhed with overseeing the move and building up the in-house team.
DJ Freeman appoints new senior partner
DJ Freeman has appointed corporate insurance specialist Toby Greenbury to the role of senior partner following an equity vote last week. He will take over from litigator Colin Joseph in May.
In the line of fire
When Vanni Treves takes over as chairman of Equitable Life, his life promises to be anything but. Can he turn the tables on the headline writers?
Blanket security
Financial Security Assurance provides insurance only for those companies that it believes do not actually need it. Vanessa Pawsey talks to assitant general counsel David Ridl about his favourite type of deal
Cozens beefs up City insurance capability
Philadelphia firm Cozen and O'Connor is hiring its first two UK-qualified insurance partners to boost its fledgling London office.
DAC loses top insurance partner to client
Davies Arnold Cooper (DAC) is losing an insurance and reinsurance partner to one of its clients, Jardine Lloyd Thompson.
Stephenson Harwood hires insurance head
Stephenson Harwood is bolstering its insurance/reinsurance practice by securing a new head from Barlow Lyde & Gilbert.
Brockbank and Hiscox unite to cut £20m legal spend at Lloyd's
Lloyd's syndicates Brockbank and Hiscox are setting a new precedent in the insurance market by teaming up for the purchasing of legal services.
Suspended firms back on Axa panel
Berrymans Lace Mawer and Kennedys are returning to Axa's panel after the insurer finally lifted a six-month suspension on the two firms.
Aon borrows 30 lawyers to slash in-house costs
Insurance giant Aon is setting up a 30-strong in-house legal department to be staffed entirely by lawyers on secondment from panel firms.
Iron Trades
When insurer Iron Trades decided to restructure its panel last year, it knew it was not going to be a simple operation. After all, when you have no in-house department and you outsource to more than 50 firms, any shake-up has the potential to become very messy indeed.
Nick Rochez
Dearbail Jordan meets Nick Rochez, Davies Arnold Cooper's senior insurance litigation partner, who caused a stir by going to US firm Leboeuf Lamb Greene & MacRae
Simon Twigden
Simon Twigden, the head of Addleshaw Booth & Co's London office, has big plans for the firm. Abigail Townsend talks to the man who has his work cut out for him.
Peter Schwartz
Sean Farrell talks to Peter Schwartz, a man who is determined to take a sense of humour with him to Baker & McKenzie - as well as all his clients
John Startin
Ryan Dunleavy finds that Hextall Erskine's John Startin laughs in the face of law firm panel cuts - he has a cunning plan up his sleeve.
On the bench
Peter Leaver QC has joined Graham Kelly and Glenn Hoddle on the bench. John-Paul Flintoff discovers that the latest member of football's ruling elite to be sent off still feels mightily aggrieved - and perhaps for good reason
Nick Sinfield
Last week, The Lawyer revealed details of the massive restructure at Davis Arnold Cooper. Now at the helm, with new title of managing director, Nick Sinfield is preparing to steer the firm on a new course. Sean Farrell reports