REQUESTS FOR COVERAGE ANALYSIS AND OPINIONS - GUIDELINES Procedures for Reporting and Billing
INTRODUCTION
Markel Service, Incorporated philosophy is to assure that a proper coverage analysis is performed in the most fair, timely and cost-effective manner. For those cases where a decision is made to request that outside counsel analyze coverage, we stress coverage counsel’s early analysis and evaluation. These reporting and billing guidelines have been developed to help us reach that goal. Our assignment of this matter is contingent on your compliance with these guidelines.
We believe the means to achieving this end is to establish a sound and collaborative partnership between counsel and our claims professionals. We consider the cornerstone of this partnership to be, candid, and effective communication, and at all times treating one another with mutual respect, fairness and courtesy.
It is the expectation of Markel Service, Incorporated that Coverage Counsel will not discuss any case with the media. Any contact Coverage Counsel does have with the media should comply with ethical and professional standards of conduct and should be discussed and approved in advance by Markel Service, Incorporated.
Markel Service, Incorporated has the right to change the litigation management guidelines at any time and without notice. Markel Service, Incorporated will endeavor to communicate any changes to our attorneys as soon as possible.
These guidelines apply to all matters assigned to your firm by Markel Service, Incorporated. Please make sure that a copy of these guidelines is provided to all attorneys, paralegals, administrative and clerical personnel, and/or other assistants prior to any work beginning on a Markel Service, Incorporated matter.