Full Profile
Peter Whalen practices in the area of commercial litigation with a focus on insurance coverage. He has extensive jury trial, appellate and alternative dispute resolution experience.
Peter has represented umbrella insurance carriers in high exposure cases for 20 years, including some of the largest actions brought in California. His work also has included complex matters for D&O, general liability and reinsurance clients. Peter has assisted clients with developing national litigation strategy for some of their biggest risks. In addition to his litigation experience, he has counselled a number of companies regarding risk management, subrogation recovery and litigation avoidance issues. Peter represents domestic and international clients in matters throughout the United States.
He has been admitted pro hac vice in cases pending in Arizona, Delaware, Illinois, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
Admissions
Education
- J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, 1987
- B.A., Political Science and Psychology, University of San Francisco, 1980
Experience
- Summary judgment was affirmed in our client's favor resulting in a multi-million dollar award regarding duties of umbrella and primary carriers and contractual indemnity issues. California Appellate Court (2010).
- Obtained a decision regarding an equitable allocation to umbrella and primary policies in a multi-million dollar dispute. Washington Appellate Court (2008).
- Summary judgment was affirmed in our client's favor obtaining a multi-million dollar award. This decision set an important precedent regarding the duties of umbrella and primary carriers. California Appellate Court (2007).
- Summary judgment was affirmed resulting in the dismissal of a USD 28 million action against our clients regarding an underlying action for alleged Lanham Act, unfair competition and advertising injury damages. Wyoming Appellate Court (2005).
- Served as co-trial counsel in the defense of a complaint asserting over USD 1 million in damages and the prosecution of a cross-complaint concerning a non-compete agreement. The complaint was defeated and judgment of almost USD 900,000 was obtained in favor of our client on the cross-complaint. California Trial Court (2004).
- Represented insurers in a pollution coverage action involving a series of eight jury trials and appeals for more than USD 500 million in claims. Served as one of the lead trial and appellate counsel and argued the case before the California Court of Appeal. California Appellate Court (1998).
