Defeating Reptilian Tactics in First-Party Insurance Cases
Recording of a 90-minute CLE webinar with Q&A
This CLE webinar will guide insurance counsel on the increasing application of the “reptile theory” in first-party insurance cases. Our panel will explore tactics used by counsel for insureds to leverage this litigation strategy and steps insurers can take to effectively neutralize them. The panel will also discuss considerations in preserving for appellate review any challenges to the use of the reptile theory.
Outline
- The “science” behind reptile theory
- Application in first-party insurance cases
- Property
- Life
- Health
- Witness preparation
- Deposition
- Trial
- Pre-discovery tactics
- Practical considerations
Benefits
The panel will review these and other relevant issues:
- How does the application of reptile theory differ in first-party insurance cases?
- What preemptive steps can insurers and their counsel take to combat reptile tactics?
- What impact has the reptile theory had on insured’s recoveries in first-party insurance cases?
Faculty

Karen K. Karabinos
Partner
Drew Eckl & Farnham
Ms. Karabinos has been litigating cases for more than 31 years, with the last 21 primarily focused on the complexities... | Read More
Ms. Karabinos has been litigating cases for more than 31 years, with the last 21 primarily focused on the complexities of property insurance law. She has successfully handled more than 75 trials and hearings and annually conducts more than 50 depositions and examinations under oath. She partners with her clients in the investigation and adjustment of property damage claims, including defending them in coverage, bad faith, arson, cyber, fraud and property damage cases and pursuing subrogation on her clients’ behalf.
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Cassandra V. Meyer
Senior Member
The Cavanagh Law Firm
Ms. Meyer concentrates her practice on litigation and insurance coverage. She has a diverse litigation practice,... | Read More
Ms. Meyer concentrates her practice on litigation and insurance coverage. She has a diverse litigation practice, working with insureds and self-insured clients primarily in the areas of premises liability, auto liability, commercial liability, professional liability, liquor (dram shop) liability, and products liability. Ms. Meyer’s insurance coverage practice focuses on commercial lines as well as personal lines. She practices in the areas of first-party as well as third-party coverage and bad faith defense, including workers’ compensation bad faith defense. Among Ms. Meyer’s clients are insurance companies, individuals, businesses, and licensed professionals. Ms. Meyer has authored and presented numerous CLE seminars in the areas of litigation, insurance coverage and bad faith.
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Robert H. Wright
Partner
Horvitz & Levy
Mr. Wright handles appeals and writs covering a broad range of substantive law, including tort liability and damages,... | Read More
Mr. Wright handles appeals and writs covering a broad range of substantive law, including tort liability and damages, products liability, employer liability and employment issues, assumption of the risk, and issues specific to public utilities. He has presented over 30 arguments before the state and federal appellate courts, including arguments before the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and each of the districts of the California Court of Appeal. Mr. Wright a frequent contributor to state and national legal publications and a featured contributor to the Washington Legal Foundation on the issue of mass torts-asbestos.
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