Robertsons

The firm: Robertsons is all about insurance, that’s it.  Robertsons’ expertise is insurance law and defending claims against insureds.  Robertsons has a reputation as a specialist firm that punches above its weight.

Robertsons’ success has been built on attracting and retaining clients who value developing a genuine longstanding partnership to achieve outstanding results.  Ultimately, Robertsons believe in building business relationships that stand the test of time, and go well beyond the transaction of the day.

The firm is known for identifying novel, pragmatic and cost-efficient solutions that assist its clients in achieving their objectives.  Robertsons also understands that no two liability claims are the same – that fresh thinking is required on each and every claim.  They know the impact a claim has on an insured business and how to best minimise those consequences.  Critical and lateral thinking is what sets Robertsons apart.

Robertsons is a hands-on partnership.  Michael Robertson, Helen Twomey, Sophie Curlett and Tom Pasley closely manage all client relationships and know each and every claim Robertsons act on.

Areas of practice
Liability insurance: Robertsons’ primary area of expertise is in liability insurance. The team members have many years of experience in all aspects of liability insurance from drafting liability insurance products (including bespoke policies) through to liability management, claims handling and litigation services; and in all areas from professional indemnity claims and directors and officers claims to general liability claims.

Professional indemnity: the firm has acted for a diverse range of professionals in all New Zealand Courts and before various tribunals and regulatory bodies. The firm’s advice is routinely sought on indemnity matters and in drafting professional indemnity policies and endorsements, including bespoke policies.

General liability: Robertsons regularly drafts general liability policies, endorsements and extensions. The firm also acts on a large number – and wide range – of general liability claims, often involving multi-party claims or claims involving difficult indemnity issues.

Statutory liability: the firm regularly defends insureds against prosecution before Courts and Tribunals pursuant to their statutory liability cover.

Tech/cyber liability: Robertsons has assisted in the drafting of technology liability products and endorsements and handled a variety of technology claims for a range of insurers.

Fidelity: the firm often provides indemnity advice in relation to fidelity losses and recovery actions.

Material damage and business interruption: the firm acts for insurers on material damage claims. Generally, it is engaged on claims giving rise to complex indemnity issues or significant losses. It also assists in policy drafting and interpretation, particularly since the Christchurch earthquakes of 2010/11.

Directors and officers/trustees liability: the firm has been retained on a number of directors and officers and trustees liability claims, both where proceedings have been issued and where a complaint has been made to a regulatory body.

Aviation: the firm acts for a number of aviation liability insurers including Lloyd’s Syndicates and international insurers in relation to commercial aviation claims in New Zealand. Jennifer Thompson has significant international expertise in aviation including hull, passenger, cargo, baggage and travel/tour operator liabilities.

International liability: the firm regularly act for domestic insurers with international claims most regularly in the Pacific Islands, Australia, the UK and the USA.