Calif. Appellate Court Bars Bad Faith Expert For Prior Representation

LOS ANGELES - An insurance lawyer and consultant who provided services to a defendant insurance company 12 years ago can't now serve as plaintiff's expert witness on the company's claims practices, a California appellate court held Sept. 1. Brand v. 20th Century Insurance Co., et al., No. B169913 (Calif. App., 2nd Dist.).

Helen Brand is suing 21st Century Insurance Co. for coverage of a water leak and mold problems in her home. She also alleges bad faith by 21st Century. In pursuing that claim, she retained Barry Zalma as her expert on 21st' Century's claims handling.

The carrier moved …