Insurance Claims Handling

Comprehensive Expertise in Insurance Claims Handling

Jim Schratz offers unparalleled expertise in the field of insurance claims handling, drawing on decades of experience as both a high-level insurance executive and an attorney.

With over 14 years of global experience adjusting and supervising high-exposure insurance claims, Jim has been involved in thousands of complex cases across various insurance lines. His work includes mass torts, construction defects, complex business disputes, catastrophic personal injuries, and wrongful death claims, all involving a broad spectrum of insurance types such as:

• Personal and commercial insurance
• Property insurance
• Fidelity and surety bonds
• Excess and specialty risks

Jim’s career includes notable executive roles at Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company, where he was responsible for managing all cases worldwide with a potential exposure of $3 million or more. In addition, he supervised the defense of lawsuits alleging improper claims handling, conducting in-depth reviews of claims to ensure adherence to best practices. His direct involvement in claims with high bad faith exposure has equipped him with a keen understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of insurance litigation.

Notable Achievements and Industry Impact

Throughout his career, Jim Schratz has made significant contributions to the insurance industry, including:

• Developing programs to ensure proper claims handling and to centralize cases involving independent counsel.
• Personally adjusting numerous high-stakes claims, including those with allegations of bad faith, improper claims handling, and fraud.
• Drafting and implementing key legal frameworks, such as California’s Civil Code Section 2860, which governs the rights and responsibilities of insurers when independent counsel is involved.

Expert Witness and Consulting Experience

Since 1994, Jim Schratz has specialized in providing expert witness services and consulting on claims handling practices, representing both insureds and insurance companies in numerous jurisdictions. He has been qualified as an expert witness in state and federal courts across the United States, including:

Jim has provided deposition and trial testimony in over 250 cases, many of which involved critical issues of insurance bad faith and improper claims handling. His ability to clearly explain the nuances of insurance practices and the standards for proper claims handling has made him a sought-after expert witness in high-profile cases.

Sample Trial Testimonies

Jim Schratz’s expertise has contributed to significant legal victories, with his testimony playing a pivotal role in both defending and prosecuting bad faith claims. Some notable cases include:

• Victaulic Company v. American Home Assurance Company: Testified on behalf of the plaintiff, leading to a $46 million punitive damages award and $8 million in attorneys' fees.
• Poteau Ford Mercury, Inc. v. Zurich American Insurance Company: Testified on behalf of the plaintiff, resulting in an award of over $6 million.
• The Continental Insurance Company v. Amadeo Lopez-Castro: Testified on behalf of the insurance company, successfully defeating a bad faith claim.
• John Cahill v. Liberty Lloyds of Texas Insurance Company: Testified on behalf of the plaintiff in a successful bad faith action.

Publications and Industry Thought Leadership

In addition to his courtroom experience, Jim Schratz is a recognized thought leader in the field of insurance claims handling. He has authored numerous publications on topics such as insurance fraud prevention, the role of independent counsel, and best practices for legal fee management. His work has been featured in various legal and industry journals, including:

• June 1992 “Do The Right Thing,” California Lawyer
• May 1996 “Cross-Examining the Legal Auditor,” The Practical Litigator
• April 1991 “Managing Insurer, Insured Conflicts of Interest,” American Bar Association
• May 2001 “How to Win a Fee Petition,” The Federal Lawyer

Jim Schratz’s unmatched experience in insurance claims handling, combined with his extensive work as an expert witness and consultant, makes him a trusted authority in the industry. His proven track record of successful case resolutions, commitment to ethical practices, and deep understanding of the complexities of insurance litigation provide clients with the confidence they need in even the most challenging claims disputes. Whether guiding clients through intricate legal strategies or testifying in high-stakes cases, Jim Schratz is dedicated to delivering expert guidance and results.