10:30 - 11:30 AM - Breakout Session 2
Choose from one of the following sessions: 

Session Descriptions

WC: Workers’ Compensation Exclusive Remedy—Relevance, Boundaries, and Contractual Protections in Today’s Workplace

Workers’ compensation typically shields employers from negligence claims—but recent litigation is testing those limits. This interactive session examines evolving interpretations of exclusivity, including the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s 2023 decision in Franczyk v. Home Depot and a recent case involving contractual indemnity and coverage disputes. Attendees will gain practical insights into risk transfer strategies and emerging legal trends common to all jurisdictions.

Presenters:
Elizabeth Cavallaro, Partner - Chartwell Law
J. Grant Stringham, Partner - Chartwell Law

 

AI: When Algorithms and Policies Collide

Artificial intelligence and automated decision-making are redefining risk—and testing the boundaries of insurance coverage, while silent cyber is increasingly pervasive. This panel explores how emerging AI threats, including generative tools, are challenging traditional policies. Through real-world cases and hypotheticals, panelists will examine coverage disputes, legislative responses, and the growing tension between human error, machine bias, and regulatory scrutiny.

Presenters:
Peter Hawley, International Head of Cyber and Deputy Head of International Financial Lines  - Everest Global
Ryan Steidl, Partner, Cybersecurity & Data Privacy - Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete, LLP
Louisa Weix, Partner; Chair, Cyber, Privacy & AI - Tittmann Weix

Timothy Zeilman, Vice President - HSB

 

GL: Turning the Tide by Using the Language of the Law

Dive into the art of anchoring and other innovative trial strategies designed to neutralize nuclear verdicts. The presenters will draw on their recent trials involving asks from $50M to over $150M to discuss trends within the plaintiffs’ bar and novel tactics to transform the defense of general liability claims. From effective use of jury focus groups to dialing in the language of the law to drive reasonable verdicts, learn how to turn the tide in your favor.

Presenters:
Paul Bigley, Partner - Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP
Jason Dineros, Partner - Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP
Maria Simioli, Senior Claims Adjuster, Specialty Claims - Fortegra