Michael J. Watson has extensive experience in assisting insurance carriers and third-party administrators in all aspects of handling disputed, questioned or fraudulent claims. Mr. Watson regularly conducts examinations under oath, advises insurance carriers on coverage issues, and litigates first-party matters in Texas and Federal Courts stemming from residential and commercial property claims, auto property claims, staged accidents, arson, and claims involving inflated or fraudulent medical expenses.

In addition to his insurance coverage practice, Mr. Watson has substantial experience defending agents in E&O matters and in defending third-party wrongful death, premises liability, construction defect and other negligence claims.

Mr. Watson received his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in 1998 where he graduated Cum Laude. He was also a member of South Texas Law Review.

REPRESENTATIVE EXPERIENCE

Representation of insurance carriers in various actions alleging breach of contract, insurance code and DTPA violations stemming from the denial of fraudulent insurance claims.

Representation of insureds in actions stemming from staged auto accidents, questionable premises liability cases, and matters involving inflated or fraudulent medical expenses.

Representation of a national carrier in a Federal Court action to recovery premiums wrongfully converted by a former agent who was ultimately found to have defrauded the carrier.

Representation of agents in various E&O actions.

Representation of ERISA Plan, Third-Party Administrator, and Texas Company in a breach of contract and ERISA action brought by regional hospital network pertaining to benefits excluded under the Plan.

Representation of company in action brought by reinsurer to recover policy proceeds allegedly expended on questionable worker's compensation claims.

In addition to his litigation work, Mr. Watson regularly conducts examinations under oath and provides coverage opinions and advice regarding both commercial and personal lines auto and property policies.

ADMITTANCES

State Bar of Texas, 1998
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Western District of Michigan

EDUCATION

South Texas College of Law
Houston, Texas
Juris Doctorate, 1998
Honors: Cum Laude, Order of Lytae
West Texas A&M University
Canyon, Texas
Bachelor of Science, 1995
Honors: Magna Cum Laude

LEGAL COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Dallas Bar Association
American Bar Association
State Bar of Texas
Texas Association of Defense Counsel
Member International Association of Special Investigation Units
Member North Texas Chapter of International Association of Special Investigation Units
Author:  “When is it Bad Faith to Settle for Policy Limits?” Dallas Bar Association, Headnotes,
Tort and Insurance Law, August 2010.