Newsletters

November 2003

INSURANCE COVERAGE UPDATE

We are pleased to present you with this edition of the Insurance Coverage Newsletter and enjoy the opportunity to share with you our insights on the latest developments in Minnesota law.  We appreciate that insurance coverage law is a complex, ever-changing field that greatly affects our clients. We also know that effective resolution of coverage disputes is a critical factor influencing the ability of our clients to thrive in a highly competitive business environment. We have made that knowledge a cornerstone of our Insurance Coverage Practice Group and work with our clients to resolve their claims expeditiously or, where appropriate, litigate their coverage position effectively and efficiently.

It has been some time since our last publication and things have changed some within our group.  Partners Ted Smetak, Jim Mewborn, and Bob Kettering continue to anchor the group with their extensive knowledge and experience.  Rich Besonen and Doug McGhee, two of our young, bright associates are also working extensively on coverage matters.  We hope this Newsletter provides you some assistance and we welcome any further inquiries you may have in order to translate this general information into legal advice. Additional information regarding our group and the services we provide can be found at our website (www. arthurchapman.com).

In this issue:

The 3M Silicone Implants Case - What is the Impact for Construction Cases? - by James F. Mewborn

Bright Wood: has the Sister Ship Come in for CGL Insurers? - by Theodore J. Smetak

Insurance Coverage Case Law Update - by Richard K. Besonen

Who's on First? - by Theodore J. Smetak and Douglas D. McGhee

ABOUT THIS PRACTICE GROUP

Our Insurance Coverage Practice Group advises and represents clients in a wide variety of liability insurance matters.  Members of the group are wellversed in various liability coverages, including automobile, commercial general liability, employment, homeowners and professional liability. We are called upon frequently to handle matters involving first-party coverages as well as bad faith disputes.  The group regularly provides advisory and litigation services, as well as drafting of policies, endorsements and self- insured plans. We recognize the need for thorough familiarity with the insurance products and plans offered by our clients, and the unique legal principles by which courts interpret them. Our group is committed to applying these skills and continuing its wide-ranging services to insured and selfinsured clients. The general information of this newsletter cannot be taken as legal advice.

© 2003 Arthur, Chapman, Kettering, Smetak & Pikala, P.A.

This publication is intended as a report on legal developments in the insurance coverage area. It is not intended as legal advice. Readers of this publication are encouraged to contact Arthur, Chapman, Kettering, Smetak & Pikala, P.A. with any questions or concerns.