In defending personal injury suits arising in the insurance practice area, Cotten Schmidt attorneys have found that there is no substitute for personal commitment to prompt, on-the-scene investigation through witness interviews and a timely recommendation for the involvement of appropriate expert witnesses. These early critical efforts provide insurance professionals with a concrete basis for early reserve evaluation and cost-effective decision making - ultimately supporting the resolution of dangerous, high-exposure, claims - whether through early settlement or the decision to pursue trial.
Cotten Schmidt attorneys who handle insurance defense cases and insurance coverage matters have extensive experience in extra-contractual or "bad faith" claims, first- and third-party coverage matters, and declaratory judgment actions. These attorneys are well-tested and experienced in addressing claims handling issues, and providing insurers advice regarding first- and third-party insurance policy coverage questions, including those questions arising under commercial and personal lines insurance, homeowners insurance, personal and commercial automobile insurance, transportation/trucking insurance, comprehensive general liability insurance, commercial property insurance, professional medical liability insurance, excess and umbrella policies.
Cotten Schmidt attorneys have been directly involved in appellate decisions addressing substantive coverage issues and issues involving the legal standards upon which expert testimony is properly admitted as evidence in civil trials. Cotten Schmidt attorneys practicing in the insurance defense and insurance coverage area also have extensive experience in handling and conducting alternative dispute resolution proceedings to successfully resolve insurance conflicts.
