Latham & Watkins hires partner in LA in response to surge in insurance claims litigation

Latham & Watkins (L&W) has hired a new partner in its litigation and trial department and a member of its complex commercial litigation practice, in the Los Angeles office.

Kirsten Jackson has experience litigating a variety of business and contractual disputes, with a particular focus on insurance matters. She regularly represents clients in matters related to captive insurance and reinsurance, as well as contract disputes, commercial general liability, business interruption, directors’ and officers’ liability, cyber liability, professional liability and property insurance.

She joins L&W from Kasowitz Benson Torres in Los Angeles.

David Barrett, global chair of L&W’s insurance counseling and recovery practice, said: “From the COVID-19 pandemic to continued economic fluctuations being felt around the globe, there is a confluence of market forces driving an increase in insurance claims-related litigation. Kirsten’s extensive experience in this specialized area of law, particularly her deep knowledge of policyholder-related matters, is a strong complement to the skillsets our litigators bring to bear every day for our clients as we help them successfully navigate their most challenging disputes.”

Michele Johnson, global chair of L&W’s litigation and trial department, added: “With her broad litigation skillset, Kirsten will be a powerful advocate for clients navigating an array of insurance-related and other commercial disputes.”

Larry Seymour, L&W’s office managing partner in Los Angeles, described her as “a gifted and accomplished advisor” who is “highly regarded in both the local and national market.”

Jackson said: “I was especially drawn to Latham because the firm’s robust insurance counseling and recovery practice is synergetic with my work.”