Next Generation Partners

Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Insurance

Bersay launched its practice, focusing on the insurance aspects of industrial and real estate projects, in June 2023 with the arrival of Xavier Marchand and his team from Franklin.
Franck Poindessault‘s team at Watson Farley & Williams LLP continues to be active in insurance litigation, with an emphasis on representing clients in the financial sector.

Insurance in France

Clyde & Co LLP

Clyde & Co LLP remains the first port of call for a host of major French and international insurers and reinsurers, fielding a comprehensive insurance practice which spans D&O liability, professional liability, W&I insurance, political risks, industrial risks, data security and fraud matters. Core areas of expertise include cyber risk, with practice co-head David Méheut, a specialist arbitrator and mediator, skilled in representing clients in cases relating to large-scale cyber attacks, and marine insurance, where co-head Rozenn Lopin is a key name. Gildas Rostain, whose extensive experience covers industrial risk-related disputes, among other areas, and Olga Jefremova, an expert in marine and non-marine litigation.

Responsables de la pratique:

David Méheut; Rozenn Lopin


Autres avocats clés:

Gildas Rostain; Olga Jefremova; Régine Guedj


Les références

‘Technical ability and responsiveness.’

‘Responsive and pragmatic.’

‘David Méheut never gives up in disputes.’

Principaux clients

Chubb


Liberty


Zurich


DLA Piper

DLA Piper's insurance team handles the full spectrum of litigation, transactional and regulatory matters for an enviable roster of insurers and reinsurers, with an impressive track record in cross-border matters. On the contentious side, the practice covers claims across all major lines of business, but is particularly well regarded for its expertise in cases in the aviation sector, where Vonnick Le Guillou is a standout name. Luc Bigel specialises in regulatory law and financial lines litigation, while Hamza Akli is an expert in regulatory issues and the distribution of insurance products, and Alexis André is active in product liability and industrial risk disputes.

Responsables de la pratique:

Vonnick Le Guillou; Luc Bigel


Autres avocats clés:

Hamza Akli; Alexis André


Les références

‘Luc Bigel has a very good understanding of the issues involved in his cases. He knows how to identify the difficulties that could be encountered and always seeks to provide a perspective that enables decision making.’

‘Pragmatic, commercial and used to dealing with the London insurer market. Happy to provide ad hoc advice without charging.’

‘I have complete confidence in Vonnick Le Guillou’s advice. She is willing to accommodate meetings at short notice to discuss claims. She has a good handle on claims that she may not necessarily have day-to-day involvement with. This is not the case with all partners at other firms.’

Principaux clients

Allianz Group


AXA Group


Global Aerospace


Generali


AIG


MS Amlin Insurance SE


La Réunion Aérienne


RSA


Zurich Insurance PLC


Chubb


Aon


Sogelife


Marsh


Munich Re


MIC Insurance Company SA


Beazley Insurance Solutions Limited


Odyssey Re


MAIF


AXA Climate


Oney Insurance


Wakam


CNP Assurances


Crédit Suisse


Starstone


Swiss Re


FM Insurance Europe SA


Lombard International Assurances


Euclid Transactional


Transact


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Axa Climate on contractual, reinsurance & ESG matters, notably in the field of parametric insurance.
  • Advising Swiss Re on a range of Covid 19-related claims and litigation.
  • Advised Compre Group on the acquisition of medical malpractice insurance portfolios covering French risks and the restructuring of the related reinsurance scheme, as well as putting in place third-party management delegation schemes.

Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. is widely recognised for the breadth of its insurance offering, with experience in contentious matters, M&A, regulatory issues and the distribution of insurance products, but is best known for its expertise in high-stakes litigation, including handling mass litigation regarding compensation for losses due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The team advises an impressive portfolio of leading French insurers on civil and professional liability, financial, industrial risk and life insurance matters. Richard Ghueldre, a key name for both disputes and regulatory and compliance advice, and Capucine Bernier, who is well versed in non-life and life insurance cases, lead the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Richard Ghueldre; Capucine Bernier


Autres avocats clés:

Charles-Eric Delamare-Deboutteville; Sophie Creusvaux; Julie Brulé


Les références

‘Dynamic team of experts in their field. They challenge their clients to explore all options.’

‘I worked with Richard Ghueldre and Capucine Bernier. They are the rare kind of lawyers who have in-depth knowledge of insurance beyond litigation.’

‘Capucine Bernier demonstrates exceptional talent for understanding the issues at stake. She has great negotiation skills which is very valuable in the management of high-stakes files. She has a perfect command of both the construction sector and the insurance sector, which is essential and makes her indispensable.’

‘Richard Ghueldre stands out for his competence, availability, seriousness, creativity, reliability, politeness and sophistication.’

‘This team is a leader in insurance law and litigation.’

‘Capucine Bernier stands out for her technical skill, her rigour and her pragmatism.’

‘Gide’s level of expertise in insurance law is among the best on the market. Beyond the quality of advice, the Gide brand is a real plus in legal cases.’

‘Capucine Bernier is one of the rare lawyers who combines a very high level of expertise with real advice. While many lawyers are content to review the law, Capucine systematically seeks to provide a pragmatic solution by taking into account the requirements of her clients.’

Principaux clients

AXA France IARD


France Assureurs (FA)


Meandre


Principaux dossiers


  • Assisting architectural firm Meandre and its insurer in connection with a fire at a school undergoing construction work in Montfermeil.
  • Assisting one of the world’s leading energy producers in setting up distribution schemes for insurance products, particularly in relation to the change in the French regulations on telephone canvassing.
  • Assisting the French Federation of Insurance Companies with regulatory changes applicable to the insurance sector.

HFW

With wide-ranging expertise in industrial risks, product liability, professional indemnity and public liability insurance, HFW is highly active in representing major insurance companies in litigation – most recently including a number of business interruption claims relating to the Covid-10 pandemic – as well advising on regulatory, distribution and compliance matters. The team is well-equipped to handle cross-border cases, with members who are qualified in France, England and Wales, and Germany. Pauline Arroyo has a broad practice, with notable strength in product liability. Litigation specialists Olivier Purcell, Guillaume Brajeux (an expert in industrial risks) and Iris Vögeding (who also advises on regulatory issues) are also noted.

Responsables de la pratique:

Pauline Arroyo


Autres avocats clés:

Olivier Purcell; Guillaume Brajeux; Iris Vögeding


Les références

‘HFW is without a doubt the best law firm in Paris for civil liability and insurance law disputes. The team is excellent, the services and deliverables are of very high quality, and the invoicing is completely correct. The establishment of partner/associate pairs allows for seamless availability. On a scale of 1 to 10, my rating is 15.’

‘Our cooperation with HFW is highly professional, and the whole team is very collaborative and responsive. Furthermore, the team has in-depth knowledge of the details of German law and is therefore a great sparring partner, particularly because their advice is creative and thoughtful.’

‘Iris Vögeding deserves special mention. Iris is an extremely thorough lawyer who always has a feel for the relevant points of a case. Her reasoning is always well-thought-out, and it is impressive that Iris has outstanding expertise in German law, even though she practises in France. Besides, she has a highly creative mind and is an outstanding strategist in terms of litigation. Iris is responsive, and her friendly nature makes her a pleasure to work with.’

Principaux clients

AXA France


AXA XL


MMA


MAAF


GMF


Generali


Helvetia


Hiscox


Zurich


ADVANT Altana

ADVANT Altana advises a diverse client portfolio of insurers, reinsurers and international brokers on a wide range of contractual, distribution, corporate, regulatory and litigation matters in the insurance sphere. In particular, the team has a strong record in insurance-related M&A, including acting for key players in the French market on cross-border transactions. Gilles Gaillard is a key name for transactional work, Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy focuses on litigation (including cyber risk and product liability claims) and Frédéric Manin advises insurance companies on competition matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Gilles Gaillard; Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy; Frédéric Manin


Autres avocats clés:

Benjamin Dors


Les références

‘Experienced and committed team.’

‘Perfect knowledge of the specificities of insurance and its regulation. A responsive service and constant support.’

‘Gilles Gaillard is pragmatic and provides solutions.’

Principaux clients

AEMA GROUPE (MACIF/AESIO)


AG2R LA MONDIALE


AIG


APPN


AXA


BNPP-CARDIF


CARDIF LUX


COVEA (MAAF ASSURANCES, MUTUELLES DU MANS ASSURANCES – MMA, GMF)


CNOSF


CREDENDO


GPSA


GROUPAMA


INSHUR BV


KLESIA


MALAKOFF HUMANIS


MARSH


MATMUT


TUTELAIRE


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Covéa on the sale to Compre of its Irish insurance subsidiary, Medical Insurance Company, which underwrote medical risks in France, Spain and Switzerland until December 2015 when it went into run-off.
  • Assisting MMA Vie Assurances Mutuelles in its capacity as a former board member of Crédit Martiniquais, which is being accused by the liquidator of Crédit Martiniquais of allegedly having contributed to causing the tremendous debt that led to its bankruptcy.
  • Advising AG2R La Mondiale, one of the most prominent insurers and pensions providers, on its merger with Mutuelle Bleue.

Dentons

Dentons‘ insurance offering ranges from regulatory and transactional matters (including W&I insurance) to disputes relating to reinsurance, insurance coverage and industrial risks. The team frequently advises on the review and drafting of insurance policies and the distribution of products, and has been increasingly active in assisting with contractor all risks, property and business interruption coverage issues. Europe insurance sector head Frédérique de La Chapelle is well versed in contentious and non-contentious matters, including international disputes, while Séverine Hotellier is well regarded for high-stakes litigation.

Responsables de la pratique:

Frédérique de La Chapelle; Séverine Hotellier


Les références

‘The team stands out for its very high level of availability and great command of the subject. Séverine Hotellier knows perfectly the needs and requirements of the complex files entrusted to her. The work accomplished is always of high quality.’

‘I had the opportunity to work with Frédérique de La Chapelle and her team on several occasions. Each time we got results. The work is perfect, deadlines are met, and she meets the client’s expectations (while remaining attentive).’

‘Frédérique de La Chapelle is available, listens and finds innovative solutions and provides excellent quality work. She combines a good theoretical knowledge of insurance and reinsurance with a practical vision of the subject matter, which is highly appreciated by clients.’

DWF (France) AARPI

Thanks to its extensive international reach, DWF (France) AARPI is well-equipped to handle cross-border insurance litigation, in addition to advising major global insurance companies on transactional and regulatory issues, including the review of their policies under French law. The team is notably active in insurance coverage disputes relating to construction, product liability and energy. Department head Romain Dupeyré, whose practice spans the full range of contentious and non-contentious matters, is particularly experienced in insurance litigation.

Responsables de la pratique:

Romain Dupeyré


Autres avocats clés:

Souleymane Simpara


Principaux clients

CNA Hardy


RSA


QBE


Hiscox


Zurich


Travelers


Allianz


Tokio Marine Kiln


Newline


Starr Underwriting


Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Acting for leading insurers, reinsurers and brokers, as well as large corporates, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP fields a broad insurance practice which covers life and non-life matters. The team has robust experience in M&A in the insurance sector (and in related competition issues), in addition to handling insurance claims, advising on regulatory issues relating to setting up insurance offerings in France and the drafting of insurance policies. Martin Le Touzé takes the lead on insurance disputes, while Vincent Hatton focuses on regulatory matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Martin Le Touzé; Vincent Hatton


Autres avocats clés:

César Michel


Les références

‘The team stands out for its technical skills, responsiveness (which is above the level normally found in the market), ability to assert itself if several of the client’s businesses are represented in a project with HSF (which is an asset), and its respect for agreed deadlines.’

‘Martin Le Touzé and César Michel are responsive, do not hesitate to give an opinion, even if it is contrary to that of the client (which is positive and reassuring), show great team spirit and quickly get to grips with the client’s business operations and requirements.

‘Good knowledge of our business (insurance and financing) and a culture of coming up with suggestions and not simply answering our questions. Open to legal innovation.’

Principaux clients

Allianz Trade


April


Bpifrance Assurance Export


CNP Assurances


CAIRS Assurances


Crédit Mutuel Equity


Generali


Scor


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Generali Vie in the context of various disputes before the French courts (including with brokerage company Mésange Prévoyance and with an individual regarding a life insurance policy).
  • Advising Crédit Mutuel Equity (the private equity branch of Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale) in relation to the competition law aspects of its acquisition of Milexia.
  • Advised Generali on the merger aspects of the acquisition of La Médicale, Crédit Agricole Assurances’ insurance subsidiary for healthcare professionals.

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP‘s insurance practice has a strong focus on transactional and regulatory matters, frequently taking on cross-border mandates alongside its international offices. Counting major French and international insurers among its clients, the team assists with M&A, portfolio transfers and reorganisations in the insurance sector, as well as regulatory issues relating to setting up operations in France and the distribution of insurance products (including in growing areas such as insurtech). Sébastien Gros is the leading figure in the practice, supported by Ghina Farah.

Responsables de la pratique:

Sébastien Gros; Sharon Lewis


Les références

‘The team take the time to connect with the client in order to understand the client’s needs and how to best serve them. From what I’ve seen, Hogan Lovells puts great importance on diversity when it comes to both the age and background of its employees, which is very important and positive. The team is very professional but at the same time very relaxed with the client, something that I appreciate.’

‘Sébastien Gros and Ghina Farah have been excellent with us. They take our requests seriously and deliver high-quality work in a timely manner.’

‘The Hogan Lovells insurance team knows the sector and the regulatory issues of this industry very well, both theoretically and practically. They are very responsive.’

‘Sébastien Gros and Ghina Farah are very competent in the field of insurance. Their practical knowledge is an asset compared to the competition.’

‘A large and diverse team with quick response times and in-depth knowledge.’

‘The team is as competent as it is pleasant. As a client, it is very important that our lawyer quickly understands the issues at stake, and the insurance team has proven to be very efficient in this regard. The advice provided was of rare quality, combining precision, clarity and pragmatism, allowing us to move forward quickly. It is rare for a firm to provide advice so adapted to the client’s problem and use. Finally, a firm that truly puts itself in the place of the corporate lawyer!’

‘Sébastien Gros and his team demonstrated great availability and great speed of execution, while producing advice of exceptional quality. Furthermore, from the point of view of prices, they are very reasonable compared to their colleagues for the quality and speed of the service rendered.’

‘Sébastien Gros is always on hand and is very knowledgeable in (re)insurance matters, be it regulatory, corporate or transactional, providing precise advice. Value for money is good! He is a leader in (re)insurance matters in France.’

Principaux clients

+ Simple


Ag2R La Mondiale


Allianz


April


Assurant (CWI Group)


Assured Guaranty


Aviva


AXA


Chubb


CNP Assurances


Coface


Ergo


Euler Hermes


Generali


Ledger


MetLife


Munich Re


OVH Cloud


RGA


SCOR


Sompo


Zurich Eurolife


Principaux dossiers


  • Assisted CNP Assurances with the disposal of its Spanish subsidiary CNP Partners de Seguros y Reaseguros SA to Medvida.
  • Advised Ardian in connection with the sale of Optimind Group, including its Luxembourg subsidiaries, Optimind Luxembourg and Optimind Risk Services, to Accenture Holdings France and the concomitant carve-out of its French subsidiary, Eosa Management.
  • Advised CNP Assurances in relation to the regulatory requirements applicable in Cyprus, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg and Spain, as a result of the acquisition by CNP Assurances Holding of the entire shareholding of CNP Assurances.

Kennedys

Kennedys is highly regarded for its expertise in insurance litigation – particularly handling cross-border disputes on behalf of leading international insurers and reinsurers – and recently bolstered its regulatory and compliance offering with the hire of Safine Hadri from DS Avocats in October 2023. Core areas of strength range from property, product liability and professional liability claims to coverage disputes. Paris managing partner Alexis Valençon, Aurélia Cadain, a standout for product liability litigation, and Nicolas Bouckaert, who is active in political risk and trade credit disputes, are names to note.

Autres avocats clés:

Alexis Valençon; Aurélia Cadain; Nicolas Bouckaert; Safine Hadri


Les références

‘A unique team who offer unique solutions to your legal issues! They quickly understand the problem and come up with innovative ideas and actions to minimise your exposure and risk. They work with you as a team and explain everything every step of the way. They are very friendly and understand the constraints that sometimes the market and the situation places on you.’

‘Aurelia Cadain is absolutely brilliant, and her level of legal knowledge is for me second to none amongst her peers. She has a razor-sharp legal mind and runs her team superbly. She is always available and will listen to your concerns before working on a solution with you.’

Signature Litigation AARPI

Boutique firm Signature Litigation AARPI represents both major insurers and large insured companies in a wide range of insurance disputes, with an emphasis on handling international cases. Among its standout areas of expertise are property (where it has been particularly active in business interruption cases stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic), D&O and environmental liability claims. At the head of the practice, Thomas Rouhette is a go-to practitioner in insurance cases in the aviation industry and Emmanuèle Lutfalla is highly experienced in product liability disputes.

Responsables de la pratique:

Emmanuèle Lutfalla; Thomas Rouhette


Les références

‘Very structured approach, excellent communication and ability to explain to non-lawyers. Cases move forward without us having to follow up constantly.’

‘Experts in their field.’

‘Very dynamic team – proactive and solution-oriented. Diverse and collaborative lawyers.’

‘Available, very high quality of service, very accessible. They understand the client’s expectations exactly.’

Principaux clients

Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty France


Allianz IARD


HDI Canada


QBE


Global Aerospace – GE Aviation


Global Aerospace – The Boeing Company


Société Générale


Air Liquide


MSIG


Adama


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Partner Re on a 1 billion euro case involving the analysis of a reinsurance treaty following the Covid-19 crisis.
  • Advised Allianz on a CAD455 million case involving pollution damages in Canada.
  • Representing Société Générale in two distinct insurance coverage cases arising from the US class actions involving the so-called IBOR and Gold Fixing investigations, as well as international discovery proceedings.

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs‘ insurance practice stands out for its expertise in litigation, with a strong emphasis on product liability, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, and environmental liability claims. The team is well regarded for its ability to handle serial losses and class actions, representing an array of major international insurance companies. Carole Sportes, who heads the international dispute resolution department and has notable strength in aviation-related claims, and Valérie Ravit, an expert in disputes relating to environmental damages, lead the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Carole Sportes; Valérie Ravit


Autres avocats clés:

Roxane Hervy; Anne-Sophie Allouis; Nora Mazeaud


Les références

‘SPB in France is a multidisciplinary firm with a united and coherent team, and equipped with sufficient resources to act as a partner on complex and time-consuming matters. The quality of the lawyers that make up the team surrounding Valérie Ravit allows us to entrust her with cases in France and internationally in a wide variety of civil liability claims.’

‘The complementary qualities of the other departments of this firm (such as real estate and insolvency) and its international network (which has a significant presence in Europe, the US and Asia) are also significant assets when choosing this firm.’

‘Valérie Ravit is an outstanding lawyer who, surrounded by a competent and responsive team, knows how to demonstrate exceptional responsiveness and adaptability, particularly for the management of mass litigation and the coordination of actions in a multinational context. She advises us and helps us implement alternative and innovative solutions by taking into account the various interests and concerns involved in complex cases.’

Tamaris Avocats

Specialist insurance firm Tamaris Avocats can now draw on the expertise of two partners, following the addition of Sophie Cochery, who brings significant experience in D&O liability claims and mass insurance litigation in the aviation industry, from DLA Piper in June 2023. Acting for established insurers and newcomers to the market, the team is highly active in product liability disputes, serial loss cases and claims in the construction and transport sectors. Alexandra Cohen-Jonathan has a strong reputation for industrial risks, product liability and professional liability claims.

Responsables de la pratique:

Alexandra Cohen-Jonathan; Sophie Cochery


Autres avocats clés:

Charles Hugo; Victoire Boulanger


Les références

‘Small team with a personal approach, responsive, reasonable billing.’

‘Alexandra Cohen-Jonathan particularly stands out for her expertise in insurance law, her responsiveness and her solutions-focused attitude. Her colleagues are less experienced but have a bright future.’

‘The Tamaris Avocats team successfully combines the demanding standards and advanced skills of large market-leading firms with the availability and flexibility of a small practice. These qualities are found in both partners and junior lawyers. Reasonable pricing compared to the major market leaders.’

Principaux clients

Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty


AXA XL


Chubb European Group SE


HDI Global SE


Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI)


SNCF Voyageurs


Systra


Zurich


Generali


Principaux dossiers


  • Assisted De Smet Engineers & Contractors with a legal appraisal to determine the origin and cause of an explosion and fire that occurred in a wood pellet manufacturing plant designed and built by the client, along with numerous subcontractors.
  • Assisted a food industry company in its claim against one of its suppliers regarding products imported via its French subsidiary.
  • Assisting as monitoring counsel for AGCS in the context of three class actions brought against its insured by former employees in the US.

Taylor Wessing

Taylor Wessing strengthened its the non-contentious side of its insurance practice significantly in November 2023 with the addition of Yannis Samothrakis, who has wide-ranging experience in corporate transactions and regulatory matters in the insurance sector, from Clyde & Co LLP. The firm is well known for representing major insurers and reinsurers in large-scale disputes, particularly professional and product liability and industrial risk cases, where Pierre-Olivier Leblanc is the key contact. In addition, Marc Schuler lends his expertise to technology and cyber risk matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Pierre-Olivier Leblanc; Marc Schuler


Autres avocats clés:

Yannis Samothrakis


Les références

‘A firm where employees are valued for their work and are not just in the wings. The quality of the work is excellent. It’s a pleasure to work with them.’

‘Pierre-Olivier Leblanc stands out for his technical skills, availability, the subtlety of his analyses, his ability to manage high-conflict situations, anticipation of our requests, very good knowledge of all the market players, and comfort in working in an international context.’

‘Very good firm in the IT, telecoms, media and financial sectors.’

‘Excellent knowledge of the French market and great expertise in the field of insurance claims.’

‘Pierre-Olivier Leblanc is one of the best insurance claims lawyers in the Paris market.’

Principaux clients

Chubb


Lubrizol


Zurich


Hiscox


Swiss Re


XL Insurance


Generali Corporate


MMA – Covéa Risks


AIG


MSIG


Munich RE


Axis Insurance


R+V Versicherung AG


Albingia


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting for Lubrizol in all litigation relating to a fire in its factory in Rouen which destroyed the site of a neighbouring company and caused environmental pollution throughout the city.
  • Assisted Hiscox in the context of two claims reported by an insured security service provider specializing in the banking sector following bank card fraud on an international scale.
  • Assisting Hiscox with the definition of a specific cover addressing real time operating solutions based on AI with control applications in critical operating systems.

Alerion

Alerion assists insurance companies, brokers and insured entities with both advisory and contentious matters, with strong recent experience in claims in the construction, transport and healthcare sectors. Philippe Mathurin, whose areas of expertise include industrial risks and construction insurance, Nathalie Dupuy-Loup, who handles personal and workplace injury-related claims, and construction-focused Fahima Gasmi lead the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Philippe Mathurin; Nathalie Dupuy-Loup; Fahima Gasmi


Les références

‘The management of the file by one or even two lawyers allows us to receive a good overall perspective of the issues specific to the case. The team’s expertise is based on solid technical skills but also on a direct approach with regard to the point of law to be addressed. By explaining the problem raised and the response proposed, they ensure that the strategy is perfectly understood and validated by the client.

‘Nathalie Dupuy-Loup and Philippe Mathurin are my main contacts. They understand the facts and the legal and commercial issues, propose a strategy (based on the anticipated means of action, jurisdictional issues, etc.) and adapt it as the situation evolves, which contributes to the optimal defence of the client’s interests.’

‘The availability and accessibility of the lawyers constitutes an asset in the formation of the lawyer-client team: the work is distributed and carried out as a team, with a strong capacity to integrate into the client’s company, including with people who are not used to interacting with legal professionals.’

Awkis

Focused on insurance and financial risk, boutique firm Awkis represents an enviable roster of major insurers in professional civil liability, financial risks and industrial risks disputes, in addition to media-related claims. Anne-Sophie Pia heads the practice and is well versed in acting as monitoring counsel in relation to major financial and media cases.

Responsables de la pratique:

Anne-Sophie Pia


Les références

‘The team knows how to respond very well to our needs and adapt. Their analyses are always of a very good quality and allow us to move forward with the files. Pragmatic approach.’

‘The Awkis team is experienced in the field of financial lines, highly technical and particularly responsive. Our collaboration with the Awkis team is long-standing, reliable and focused on customer support. The Awkis team is a source of suggestions for intelligent budgetary management of files and invoicing. The legal analyses and their costs are adapted according to the issues at stake in the cases.’

‘In addition to great skill in legal analysis, particularly the assessment of the legal and financial issues in our cases, Anne-Sophie Pia has excellent interpersonal skills. She and her team provide excellent advice on determining the most appropriate strategy and are extremely effective in the context of negotiations and transactional discussions.’

Baro Alto

Boutique firm Baro Alto advises both insurers and insured entities on matters such as the analysis of insurance coverage, regulatory issues and loyalty programmes, and also acts in insurance disputes. Its wide range of experience covers art insurance, professional liability and D&O liability. Géraldine Brasier Porterie and Pierrick Jupile-Boisverd head the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Géraldine Brasier Porterie; Pierrick Jupile-Boisverd


Principaux clients

Study made in partnership with 2IES Think Tank


FG2A


Chatain & Associés

Based in Paris and Bordeaux, the insurance team at Chatain & Associés specialises in litigation, with extensive recent experience in mass business interruption claims stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic. The team, which acts for a number of leading insurers, also has robust skill sets in construction and industrial risk claims. Antoine Chatain, Thomas de Boysson and Dominique Ham are the key names.

Responsables de la pratique:

Antoine Chatain; Thomas de Boysson; Dominique Ham


Les références

‘Responsiveness, competence, professionalism, discretion and listening skills.’

‘Dominique Ham is an excellent professional at all levels.’

‘The team go above and beyond through their involvement, professionalism and availability.’

Principaux clients

ALLIANZ IARD


HISCOX


GENERALI


SNCF FRET


ALTAWEST/LEROUX & LOTZ TECHNOLOGIES/JEUMONT ELECTRIC


MONOPRIX


AIG


SUEZ


DALKIA


ENEDIS


DAC Beachcroft

DAC Beachcroft provides advisory services to an array of international insurers, reinsurers and insured companies, in addition to representing clients in industrial risk, product liability, D&O liability and construction insurance claims, among others. Paris office head Vladimir Rostan d'Ancezune is highly experienced in cross-border matters, including disputes and advice on global insurance programmes, while Christophe Wucher-North and Alexandre Gadot focus on litigation.

Responsables de la pratique:

Vladimir Rostan d’Ancezune


Autres avocats clés:

Christophe Wucher-North; Alexandre Gadot


Les références

‘Valdimir Rostan d’Anchezune stands out for his technical skills, availability, forceful approach, listening ability, and situational and strategic intelligence.’

‘The team have a lot of forensic experience and a strong industry focus, giving them an abundance of knowledge of what insurers need in terms of claims handling.’

‘Vladimir Rostan d’Ancezune is very quick to grasp the facts of the case.’

Grenier Avocats

Acting for insurance companies, brokers and large insured companies, Grenier Avocats is primarily active in litigation, with strong recent experience in handling claims in the industrial, construction and transport sectors. The firm is also noted for its ability to handle cross-border claims as part of the Clausen Miller International network of firms specialising in industrial risk. Patrice Grenier is the key name to note.

Responsables de la pratique:

Patrice Grenier; Anne-Sophie Lilti; Claire Laporte


Les références

‘Dynamic, available, responsive and very professional team. They follow up on files very well. Very relevant advice.’

‘I work with Patrice Grenier and Anne-Sophie Lilti, whom I particularly appreciate for their responsiveness and their ability to assist me where other firms cannot.’

‘Very professional team, which has a great command of its subject and does not invent work to increase invoices.’

Principaux clients

Apave


Zurich


Danone


Allianz


Alfa Laval


Axa


Beneteau


Aon


QBE


AIG


Herald Avocats

Herald Avocats is noted for its expertise in life insurance matters, as well as in construction, property damage and product liability cases. The team is predominantly active in disputes, acting for both large French insurance companies and insured entities and individuals, but also advises on corporate, distribution and regulatory issues. Pierre-Yves Rossignol, who is an experienced litigator, leads the practice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Pierre-Yves Rossignol


Les références

‘Pierre-Yves Rossignol stands out for his efficiency and availability.’

‘Very competent and responsive team.’

‘Pierre-Yves Rossignol is a lawyer who listens very closely to his clients’ concerns and strives to give the advice most suited to the factual situation as quickly as possible.’

HW&H

Led by Béatrice Deshayes (a member of the Paris and Cologne Bars), HW&H stands out for its ability to handle insurance matters with a German component, frequently representing German companies and their insurers before the French courts, and vice versa. The team is particularly experienced in litigation, including industrial risks and product liability claims, although it also advises on regulatory issues.

Responsables de la pratique:

Béatrice Deshayes


Autres avocats clés:

Dominique Heintz


Les références

‘Always provide quick and competent feedback, speak fluent French, English and German, have good contacts with other lawyers and experts, and provide comprehensive information on changes in case law.’

‘The team stands out for its ability to communicate in multiple languages, the quick responses to queries and the accessibility of the lawyers.’

‘Our experience of working with the team was exceptional. They always came back to us promptly with highly professional advice. Also, the fact that the majority of the team speaks French and German fluently is a big advantage for German companies which need legal support in France.’

Principaux clients

AGCS


Allianz IARD


AXA XL


Chubb


Zurich


K&L Gates LLP

K&L Gates LLP’s insurance practice is noted for its focus on advising corporate policyholders, acting for large multinationals from the chemical, financial, real estate and technology sectors, among others. In addition to strong recent activity in the field of business interruption claims, the team is involved in high-profile product liability and financial fraud cases. Barthélemy Cousin leads the practice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Barthélemy Cousin


Autres avocats clés:

Thibaut Gribelin


Les références

‘Efficient teamwork.’

‘Valuable insurance specialists.’

‘Thibaut Gribelin answers questions directly and precisely, and does not give convoluted responses which do not give a clear vision of the situation.’

Principaux clients

Société Générale Singapore Branch


Mercuria Energy Trading Pte Ltd


Société Générale SA


Edeis and Bothnia


Klépierre SA


Calzedonia France


Marsh SAS


Arev Finance


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting for Société Générale Singapore Branch in an ongoing case concerning a $90M trade finance-related fraud that occurred in Singapore.
  • Assisting Mercuria Energy Trading Pte Ltd in an ongoing case before the Paris Court of Appeal concerning a fraud that occurred at the Qingdao and Penglai ports in China, in which the client is seeking $10m from its cargo insurers.
  • Assisting Klépierre in the recovery of the €114M loss of rents suffered due to the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak.

Laude Esquier & Associés

The insurance practice at specialist litigation firm Laude Esquier & Associés has a strong focus on representing insured companies in claims against insurers (including significant recent D&O liability and business interruption cases), and also handles disputes relating to life insurance policies for French and Luxembourg insurers. Richard Esquier, a well-regarded litigator, leads the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Richard Esquier


Les références

‘The firm stands out for its quality of advice and proactivity.’

‘Richard Esquier provides excellent follow-up on life insurance litigation files.’

Principaux clients

SUNERGIA


MATISA


HOMEVI


CARDIF LUX VIE


DOMUSVI


CNP ASSURANCES


LAFARGE HOLCIM


BALOISE VIE LUXEMBOURG


LPA-CGR avocats

LPA-CGR avocats has a strong record in the field of industrial risks and financial risks, frequently acting for major French and international insurers (as well as insured companies) in litigation, in addition to assisting with policy drafting and the distribution of insurance products. Alexia Eskinazi is the key contact for claims in the energy sector and leads the practice. Arnaud Molinier has left the practice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Alexia Eskinazi


Autres avocats clés:

Guillaume Richard


Les références

‘Good quality of legal analysis.’

‘Alexia Eskinazi is pragmatic, solution-oriented and a good tactician.’

‘Competent and dynamic team with real skills in industrial and commercial law. The team uses all digital means available on the market.’

‘I mainly work with Alexia Eskinazi, who is a forceful lawyer – she is very responsive and does not hesitate to advise her client based on her investigation of the file. Alexia does not only deal with the legal part but is eager to understand our often very technical problems, which she considers with legal expertise to then be able to build our response strategy.’

‘The team stands out for its rigour, availability, competence, relevant suggestions, and quality of advice and drafting.’

Norton Rose Fulbright

Under the leadership of Bénédicte Denis, Norton Rose Fulbright has a robust corporate and regulatory offering in the insurance sphere, with experience of handling cross-border mandates alongside its international offices. Core areas of expertise include advising leading French and international insurers and reinsurers on M&A and joint ventures, as well as reinsurance matters, the distribution of insurance products and policy reviews.

Responsables de la pratique:

Bénédicte Denis


Autres avocats clés:

Christian Dargham; Simon Lazzari


Les références

‘This is a team with an excellent understanding of the insurance market and its regulatory landscape. They are truly experts in (re)insurance regulation and understand the regulators in Europe well.’

‘Individuals with excellent expertise. Legal work product is clear, well organized and easy to tailor for a lay audience.’

Principaux clients

Allianz, Allianz Africa, Allianz Partners


Covéa


AXA Partners


Bridgepoint


Europ Assistance


AIG


AmTrust


CCR Re


La Mondiale Europartner


BNP Paribas Cardif


PBA LEGAL

PBA LEGAL‘s insurance team is particularly skilled in litigation and represents insurers and insured companies in a steady stream of product liability and industrial liability claims. Its broad expertise also extends to environmental and construction-related cases. Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon has extensive experience of defending insurance companies and brokers in a wide range of cases, while Stéphane Lataste focuses on financial lines insurance matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon; Stéphane Lataste


Autres avocats clés:

Domitille Pozzana; Lydie-Anne Berthézène


Les références

‘Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon has exceptional technical expertise and in-depth legal knowledge, which she knows how to make accessible to our in-house teams. She is very accessible.’

‘Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon is easy to consult for a first opinion on a case or a legal problem and will be able to provide sound advice at the pre-litigation stage in order to best prepare for the eventual judicial proceedings. Her judgment is always reasonable and balanced, allowing for the right strategic choices to be made, including in favour of alternative dispute resolution methods.’

‘Catherine Popineau-Dehaullon stands out for her technical skills, fighting spirit and reactivity.’

Principaux clients

MAIF International


IF Assurances


Chaucer – MCI /Lloyds France


MIC Insurance


Chubb European Group SE


MMA


Allianz


QBE


Galian Assurances


Generali


XL Catlin


Swiss Re


Great Northern Insurance Company


Assurances Pilliot


Zurich Insurance


AON France


Preel Hecquet Payet-Godel PHPG Avocats

Litigation is the forte of the Paris and Orléans-based team at Preel Hecquet Payet-Godel PHPG Avocats, which is well versed in representing insurers in claims before the French courts, with experience spanning construction, professional liability, industrial risks and product liability cases. Co-founding partners Jean-Baptiste Payet-Godel and Françoise Hecquet lead the team with Charlotte Roger and Romain Bruillard.

Responsables de la pratique:

Françoise Hecquet; Jean-Baptiste Payet-Godel; Charlotte Roger; Romain Bruillard


Autres avocats clés:

Cécile Tiberghien; Agnès Bruneval


Les références

‘The team stand out for their responsiveness, competence, and use of webinars on interesting subjects.’

‘Great professionalism. Highly skilled. Very attentive. Close relationships with clients. Personal touch. User-friendly.’

Simmons & Simmons

Originally focused on representing large insured companies, Simmons & Simmons is now equally adept at acting for insurers and brokers, with expertise in product liability, professional indemnity and D&O liability claims, as well as in disputes between insurance companies and brokers. The firm also has a growing regulatory offering and frequently advises on cyber risk policies. Litigators Alexandre Regniault and Quentin Charluteau lead the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Quentin Charluteau; Alexandre Regniault


Autres avocats clés:

Emilien Bernard-Alzias


Les références

‘Quentin Charluteau is very responsive and available, and quickly takes ownership of files and new information to propose appropriate actions.’

‘S&S are a fantastic firm to work with. They have the flexibility that we need to support us in growing our book of business and keeping our clients happy and have the skills and knowledge required to provide us with the legal services we require, providing us always with timely and accurate responses.’

‘They have a big team which means that there is always someone available to respond to us and regardless of the seniority level, all lawyers are knowledgeable, responsive and show a deep understanding level of French law and customs.’

Principaux clients

MS Amlin


Les Laboratoires Servier


Beazley


Principaux dossiers


  • Assisting a major company with obtaining the insurance coverage of losses due to incidents which occurred in two plants constructed in the UK.
  • Assisting a major insurance company in the context of a dispute with a broker relating to the end of the agency agreement.

SORBA PAYRAU

Emmanuelle Payrau leads the insurance practice at SORBA PAYRAU, which focuses on advising corporate policyholders, acting for well-known companies across the industrial, real estate, pharmaceutical and construction sectors. The team is particularly active in professional liability claims, but also handles business interruption, D&O liability and construction insurance cases, in addition to providing ongoing advice on insurance coverage.

Responsables de la pratique:

Emmanuelle Payrau


Les références

‘Responsive, organised and pragmatic. A team that is available to assist its clients, with flawless knowledge of the files.’

‘Emmanuelle Payrau is an excellent negotiator with exceptional professionalism.’

‘Very good service.’

Principaux clients

AEW


Groupe La Française


Ipsen


VINCI Group


ED&F Man Group


Auchan


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising a global leader in the trade of agricultural products on an insurance dispute in which the client is seeking compensation for pecuniary losses incurred following the recovery of huge export refunds and subsidies paid in accordance with EU regulations.
  • Advising several investment management companies on insurance contractual disputes in order to seek compensation for professional liability claims brought against them before the French and US Courts.
  • Advising a France-based hotel group on receiving compensation for operating losses that it suffered due to the closing of a luxury hotel following the explosion which occurred on rue de Trévise in Paris in January 2019.

Stephenson Harwood

The insurance practice at Stephenson Harwood draws on the wider firm's expertise in maritime law to act for international shipping companies, insurers, reinsurers and P&I clubs in claims relating to damages to vessels and port facilities, including cross-border disputes. The team also advises on professional and product liability cases outside the shipping sector. Paris managing partner Nicolas Demigneux leads the practice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Nicolas Demigneux


Les références

‘A very good team – attentive and efficient.’

Principaux clients

Lion Air Airline, Ciel Voyage and Transportation Partners


The Hartford (formerly Navigators), RSA, Talbot Underwriting


Hiscox MGA LTD


JDA – Joseph Dirand Architecture


Louis Dreyfus Armateurs SAS And LD Ports & Logistics PTE LTD


Maersk Line A/S


Qatar Museums Authority


RSA Insurance Group PLC, RSA France and RSA Luxembourg


SK Geo Centric CO. LTD


Suez Group/SAS Degrémont France


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting for Degrémont, the water subsidiary of Suez, in survey proceedings before the Paris Commercial Court against Sète Agglopole Méditerranée, the contracting authority for the construction and renovation of a water treatment plant in the south of France.
  • Advising a group of companies on the insurance issues resulting from the European Union sanctions against Russia in response to the war in Ukraine.