Kristin A. Shepard

Defeated certification of a nationwide class action of index annuity policyholders due to variations in state law governing insurance contract interpretation. Won dismissal of a class action by annuity beneficiaries due to lack of standing and for failure to state a claim under RICO and various common-law torts. Obtained multidistrict litigation consolidation of copycat annuity sales practices class actions alleging claims under RICO and state law. Settled classwide on favorable terms, and enforced the settlement to bar action by the state attorney general on behalf of consumers. Won dismissal of class action claims by Illinois insureds for refund of auto insurance premiums due to alleged reduction in driving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Served as national coordinating counsel for insurer defending business interruption claims in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Secured dismissal of property-casualty insurance class actions based on the filed rate doctrine. Obtained an order vacating certification of a national class action alleging breach of the cash value provision of life insurance contracts. Secured an order affirming a denial of certification of a class of life insurance purchasers on appeal where the statute of limitations defense raised individualized issues that could not be resolved classwide.