Insurance Defense Richmond

Experienced, successful insurance defense attorneys in Richmond with a proven success

When any significant dispute arises over an insurance claim, the insurer's selection of defense counsel is extremely important. These complex cases demand in-depth knowledge of all applicable laws and an established network of highly qualified experts. You should also have confidence that your law firm will start building the case for a possible trial from day one. Our experience has shown that clients who are prepared for trial tend to obtain the most favorable settlements.

Rigorous representation by a cohesive, trial-proven insurance lawyers in Richmond

At McKenry Dancigers Dawson, P.C., you will work with one of the most respected and dynamic insurance defense teams in Virginia. Lawyers at our firm have been zealously defending the interests of insured parties and insurers for the past four decades. Across our areas of practice, we have taken hundreds of cases through trial and favorably settled thousands more through strategic negotiation, mediation, and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Statewide liability defense throughout Virginia, trusted by leading insurers for decades

Our insurance defense practice literally covers the state of Virginia - all Virginia General District Courts, Circuit Courts, and the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern District of Virginia and Western District of Virginia. We have built and maintained long-standing relationships with many national and regional insurers, for automobile and fire and casualty claims. We have the knowledge and resources to handle all aspects of claim and coverage disputes involving the insurance defense practices listed below.

Product liability insurance defense for manufacturers

Defective auto components
Defective manufacturing equipment
Defective and dangerous consumer and industrial power tool
Defective food processing equipment
Defective and dangerous medical and pharmaceutical product
Defective consumer and residential appliance product

Premises liability insurance defense

Homeowner injury and wrongful death liability
Commercial policyholder or property owner liability
Property damage claims (fire, casualty, flood, hail, storm, etc.)
Municipal entities (police, fire department, school board, parks, road maintenance)
Public parking lot, parking ramp owner liability
Retail store, bar, restaurant liability

Motor vehicle accidents insurance defense

Auto injury or death liability
Auto property damage claims
Self-insured truck company claims
Construction vehicle accident
Over-the-road freight truck policy litigation defense
Pedestrian and bicycle accident

Maritime insurance defense

Jones Act claims
Injuries under general maritime law
Longshore claims
Cargo claims
Limitation of Liability Act petitions
Pollution claims
Recreational vessel claims
First-party property claims

Bad faith insurance litigation defense

We also protect the rights of insurance companies facing policyholders' lawsuits claiming bad faith insurance practices for denying or undervaluing personal injury, property damage, or medical expense coverage ("medpay") claims or canceling coverage.

We emphasize prompt, rigorous investigation in every case. You can count on our firm to balance protection of your insured's interests against the potential costs of litigation. To discuss your needs, contact us by telephone or email.

Our Insurance Defense Attorneys Can Help!

An insurance defense attorney plays a crucial role in safeguarding your interests if you're involved in a lawsuit where an insurance policy is implicated. They provide legal representation throughout the entire process, from court proceedings to negotiations and communications relevant to your case. One of their key functions is to help you understand the intricacies of insurance policies, which can often be complex legal documents with specific terms and conditions. By delving into the details of your policy, they ensure you comprehend your rights and obligations.

Client Feedback

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I have known Shawn for many years through my time in private practice as well as in house. I have always thought of Shawn as a strong advocate for his clients and a straightforward and honest attorney to deal with, whether on the same side or from opposite sides of the courtroom. Shawn is not just a great lawyer but also a genuine and nice person, always with a compliment or an honest inquiry as to how someone is doing. I cannot recommend Shawn highly enough.

Marc Marling

Principal at Vanmarc Shipping Limited and Global Marine Consulting

Shawn is an attorney that you know has taken the time to understand the facts and circumstances of your case and also has the expertise to provide effective and excellent advise, counsel, and representation. He is an attorney you can refer friends, relatives, or acquaintances and you know you will get a call praising him and his work.

Jeremy Woodruff

Director of Human Resources at Top Guard Security

I have litigated maritime personal injury cases against Shawn and know him to be a knowledgeable, thorough, and zealous advocate for his shipowner-insurer clients, and a man of good faith who can minimize his clients’ exposure all the while demonstrating genuine compassion for the injured seaman. I also know Shawn to be an exemplary community servant from our mutual association with the Norfolk-Portsmouth Bar Association. I recommend him whole-heartedly!

David Buzard

Attorney, Counselor, Advisor and Consultant

Shawn served as opposing counsel in a civil case I had involving complex construction issues. Throughout the course of litigation, Shawn demonstrated an excellent grasp of both the legal and technical issues at hand, and was always thoroughly prepared. Shawn always acted professionally. His client was fortunate to have such an excellent attorney!

Catherine Six

Partner at East Coast Trial Lawyers, PLC

Shawn’s experience as a maritime lawyer have proven invaluable in assessing contract language and impacts on risk financing strategies and coverage interpretations. And he delivers what he says he’s going to deliver. I recommend Shawn, and his team, without hesitation.

Bill Rowan

Risk Manager at Northeast Ship Repair, Inc.

Shawn is one of those rare lawyers who meets both the “great guy” and “excellent lawyer” tests, which are usually thought of as being mutually exclusive. Shawn has a real expertise in maritime law, especially on the tricky insurance coverage end. I have heard him lecture at SEALI, which was well received. I just hope he doesn’t open an office here.

Don T. Evans, Jr.

Partner at Clark, Newton & Evans, PA

Having worked with Shawn in a leadership capacity for a large non-profit organization, I can speak highly of his leadership skills, integrity, and fiscal responsibility. He was comfortable dealing with tough subjects in both large and small audience settings, and always had the most convincing position when required to make tough decisions regarding money.

Wil Busby

VP at Parroco Production Group, Inc.

Shawn did excellent work assisting us with a complex multi-million dollar international shipping dispute. His contributions and advice contributed to a very favorable outcome. I recommend Shawn without hesitation.

Simon Harter

Owner, Law Offices of Simon Harter, Esq.

I have worked with Shawn on several cases, including maritime personal injury and property damage concerns. He is extremely hard working, very knowledgeable and achieves excellent results. I highly recommend Shawn for any admiralty issue you may have.

Stephen Newton

Vice President at Norfolk Dredging Company

Shawn did a great job as outside counsel on Kinder Morgan litigation matters. He brings a blend of meaningful experience, knowledge, practicality, and humor, making working with him a great experience for an in house lawyer.

Lizzette Palmer

Managing Member at Palmer Law PLLC

Shawn and his firm represented our company in a civil case. Shawn was professional, courteous, and most important, paid attention to detail. Shawn’s efforts resulted in a favorable resolution for our company. I would highly recommend Shawn to anyone in need of an attorney’s services.

Scott Shirk

Executive Vice President at Gateway Terminal

Being a risk manager for one of this nation’s largest dredging and marine transportation companies, I find myself uniquely qualified to recommend Shawn as an excellent admiralty attorney. I have observed him in a number of situations which have allowed me to witness first hand his dedication to the law, his integrity, and his professionalism. I know that Shawn has gotten some unique and “hands on” exposure to the marine transportation industry, while defending cases for this company. While I worked with Shawn, I soon learned he goes out of his way to treat others with the utmost respect when working with them, including opposing counsel. He keeps the client fully informed at all times and is always a pleasure to work with.

Tom Langan

Risk Management Director at Weeks Marine, Inc

Shawn is an excellent attorney who is attune to his client’s needs. He is well versed in VA law and evaluates cases fairly. Shawn is responsive and works very well with clients, carriers and other parties involved in our cases.

Stefanie Warner, AIC PHM

Director of Claims at HAI Group

When I first met Shawn Voyles I was scared, lost, and not sure of what my future held. He helped me get through a time in my life that was bar none, the hardest challenge I have ever faced. Not only was he able to do this through the use of his proficient legal expertise, battling for me both before and during trial, but also through the support he gave as a human being. Mr. Voyles is an intelligent, hard working, good man. He truly helped me in my time of need, and for that I am forever grateful.

Zach Kane

Shawn is a progressive, no nonsense attorney who is always prepared to stand toe to toe against any opposing legal team in a court of law. He is sharp and poised in his delivery. He made me proud to have him as my legal representation for my company.

Clarissa McAdoo

Executive Director at Suffolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority

Shawn’s breadth of experience, strategic thinking, strong work ethic, and client advocacy were instrumental in achieving a positive outcome in a civil matter for which I retained his counsel. Although the case persisted for nearly two years, Shawn’s determination to seek justice on my behalf never waned and he maintained knowledge of the smallest details, engendering confidence in our legal strategy. His complete integrity and willingness to go above and beyond until I collected the awards/damages speaks volumes about the quality of his character. I highly recommend Shawn without any reservation.

Bosun Hau

Head of Global Healthcare at Sailing Capital - US/EU/China Healthcare and Technology PE/VC

Shawn was hired for defense of a $3 Million civil case in Norfolk Circuit Court. The result was a defense verdict. Shawn’s attention to detail and persistence throughout the trial pointing out the issues to the jury made a huge impact. He maintained a professional demeanor which I believe kept the jury focused on the issues and didn’t allow the plaintiff’s three lawyers to get the jury side tracked. I will use Shawn again for defense of my cases and would recommend him for the defense of any case. Great job Shawn.

Doug Eakin, CPCU AIS, AIM

Complex Claims Director at AIG Claims, Inc

Shawn did a great job handling a lawsuit for me. He kept me in the loop each step of the way. He developed some key evidence that enabled us to reach a favorable resolution. I would definitely hire Shawn again.

Kathryn Artlip

Assistant General Counsel at Kinder Morgan, Inc