Ethics of Insurance Defense Under ROR: Model Rule 1.7, Conflicts, and Insured's Right to Independent Counsel

Ms. Villaverde focuses her practice on representing insurance companies in commercial general liability disputes and bad faith litigation. Her work includes coverage issues and disputes concerning sexual abuse, product liability, environmental liability, toxic tort, construction defects, and professional liability claims. Ms. Villaverde also advises and represents domestic and international insurers in complex coverage disputes involving general liability, environmental impairment liability (EIL), errors and omissions, professional liability, and first-party policies in state and federal courts nationwide, including the New Jersey Appellate Division. In addition, she oversees e-discovery efforts, negotiates protocols, and advises clients on vendor contracts, preservation, and collection.

Ms. Weeks handles all aspects of insurance coverage and bad faith litigation and provides proactive counseling and coverage reviews for policyholders. She consults with corporate clients on coverage issues and provides advice regarding the type and level of insurance coverage needed based on their potential risks. Ms. Weeks has experience handling first and third-party suits under various types of policies, including property, commercial general liability, directors and officers, equine mortality and major medical, cyber, and fidelity bonds. She was named to Best Lawyers in America’s “Ones to Watch” 2022 and 2023 list for insurance law, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s 40 Under 40 Outstanding Professionals of South Florida 2022 list, and the Miami Dade Bar Young Lawyers Section’s 40 Under 40 2023 list. Ms. Weeks was also named a Circle of Excellence winner for Insurance Litigation in 2023 by the Miami Dade Bar.