Insurance Defense/Coverage
Insurance coverage disputes demand prompt, objective analysis — and our attorneys have been serving as coverage counsel for over thirty years. We bring a thorough understanding of policy language, New Mexico law, and the practical realities insurers and insureds face when coverage questions arise. Our coverage counsel services include:
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Assisting clients in making coverage determinations
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Preparing coverage opinions
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Drafting reservation of rights letters
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Filing and defending declaratory judgment actions
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Monitoring underlying litigation and coordinating with defense counsel
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Participating in mediations and facilitating settlements
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Defending and prosecuting bad faith actions
We are experienced across a broad range of policy types, including:
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Comprehensive General Liability (CGL)
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Commercial Lines
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Property Insurance and All-Risk Policies
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Umbrella and Excess Coverage
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Employer Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI)
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Commercial and Personal Auto Policies
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Directors & Officers (D&O) Coverage
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Inland Marine Policies
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Environmental Impairment Liability (EIL)
New Mexico presents unique coverage challenges, and our deep familiarity with state law gives our clients a significant advantage. We have researched and litigated a wide range of complex coverage issues, including the definition of an "occurrence," when property damage triggers coverage, how New Mexico's anti-indemnity statutes affect underlying contracts, the economic loss doctrine, permissive users under commercial auto policies, and environmental pollution claims. We are particularly well-versed in coverage disputes arising from construction defect claims — an increasingly significant area of litigation in New Mexico.
Our team has the resources, experience, and legal knowledge to analyze coverage issues, render coverage opinions, and litigate on behalf of either the insurer or the insured.