Scott Seaman | Attorney | Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

Scott M. Seaman

Partner

Chicago, IL

"Our clients entrust us to provide world-class representation in a wide range of complex and high-stakes insurance and business matters. Our advice, strategy, and lawyering are first-rate. Our clients know that we are representing them in specific matters and also protecting their broader business and portfolio interests."

312-704-3699

Email c3NlYW1hbkBoaW5zaGF3bGF3LmNvbQ==

Scott M. Seaman

Partner

Chicago, IL

312-704-3699

Email c3NlYW1hbkBoaW5zaGF3bGF3LmNvbQ==

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About Scott

Scott Seaman is a commercial litigator and trial lawyer with more than 37 years of experience. Scott is widely regarded as one of the leading attorneys in the United States representing insurers and reinsurers in property and casualty matters. He is known for employing his deep knowledge of the law, insurance, and financial industries, strategic thinking, and honed trial and appellate advocacy to produce creative solutions and outstanding results for clients. Clients regularly turn to Scott and his team for counsel and representation in challenging, complex, and high-stakes insurance and business matters.

Overview of Practice

Scott has a long track record of successfully representing companies before trial courts, appellate courts, and arbitration panels across the country in a variety of cases and matters involving general liability coverage (primary, umbrella, and excess), professional liability coverage, directors and officers liability insurance, transactions insurance, first-party property coverage, bad faith and extra-contractual matters, fee disputes, and facultative and treaty reinsurance contracts. He has served as national coverage counsel as well as trial and appellate counsel.

He also advises and represents companies on cyber, privacy, data breach, IoT, nanotechnology, gig economy, social inflation, viruses and pandemics, social unrest, ESG, climate change, and other emerging issues, as well as a wide range of case-specific and portfolio issues.

Scott also has handled a variety of challenging international, professional liability, health/life science, director and officer liability, tort and product liability, and business and commercial cases.

Scott has served as an arbitrator and has been retained as an expert witness on insurance issues. He has drafted contract language, trained insurance and reinsurance professionals, and assisted companies in evaluating and resolving issues in the claims stage.

Practice Group and Industry Leadership

Scott is co-chair of the firm's global Insurance Services Practice Group, is the firm's core industry group leader for the insurance industry, and serves on the firm's Executive Committee. Under his leadership, the Insurance Services Practice Group is ranked in Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business in Insurance: Dispute Resolution nationally and regionally in California, Florida, and Illinois.

Scott has had the privilege of working with some of the most dedicated and talented senior management, legal counsel, and insurance and reinsurance claims and litigation professionals in the world and of serving as counsel in precedent-setting cases involving some of the most challenging contemporary coverage and reinsurance issues confronting the insurance industry.

He is one of the attorneys spearheading the strategic alliance between Hinshaw and RPC in London, Singapore, and Hong Kong to transform the delivery of legal services in the global insurance market. Scott is also the lead for Global Access Lawyers, an alliance of leading, worldwide law firms with gravitas representing members of the insurance and financial services industries.

Scott was named to the inaugural list of Midwest Trailblazers by The American Lawyer magazine. The list recognizes 50 professionals from 12 Midwestern states "who have moved the needle in the legal industry" and "are truly agents of change." He was selected for his "high-profile, complex insurance coverage cases nationwide, which resulted in precedent-setting rulings that have altered insurance law." He was named to Crain's Chicago Business 2024 Notable Leaders in Accounting, Consulting & Law and to Crain's Chicago Business 2025 Notable Litigators & Trial Lawyers.

Scott has a Band 1 ranking in Insurance: Dispute Resolution – Illinois from Chambers USA and has been ranked for the past 16 years. He has been recognized as a Top Insurance author for the last five consecutive years in the JD Supra Readers' Choice Awards.

Client and Market Comments

According to Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business:

"Scott Seaman is client-centric and responsive. He is a knowledge leader and is a standout in terms of coverage. He is technical and exceptionally good with c-suite level people." (2025)

Scott Seaman receives praise for his representation of insurance carriers in environmental, asbestos, business interruption, and product liability disputes: "Scott is a wonderful, insightful, and kind individual who is a pleasure to work with." (2024)

In ranking Seaman, Chambers USA states: "[He] receives praise for his representation of insurance carriers in environmental, asbestos, business interruption, and product liability disputes." One client raved, "Scott is a great lawyer that does a wonderful job in defending any matter." According to another source, "Scott is a superb reinsurance and insurance coverage lawyer and is among a small group of the most knowledgeable in the industry." Another client described Scott as "a thought leader." (2023)

"Scott Seaman receives praise for his representation of insurance carriers in environmental, asbestos, business interruption, and product liability disputes. 'Scott brings a unique level of energy, insight, creative problem solving, and a genuine focus on the client experience.'" (2022)

"Scott Seaman receives praise for his representation of insurance carriers in environmental, asbestos, business interruption, and product liability disputes. 'He is very knowledgeable and greatly sought after by insurers.'" (2021)

"Scott Seaman is described by market sources as a 'real intellectual,' Seaman receives praise for his representation of insurance carriers in environmental, asbestos, and product liability disputes. Clients appreciate his 'ability to get to the heart of the issues and come up with creative ways to resolve a case.'" (2020)

"Scott Seaman co-chairs the firm's insurance department and is lauded for his experience in a variety of coverage disputes. His areas of expertise include toxic tort and environmental matters. Market sources report: 'He is very proactive, extremely intelligent and results-oriented.'" (2019)

"Scott Seaman is widely acknowledged for his knowledge across the insurance market, regularly handling complex coverage disputes. One client lauds, 'Scott's expertise is unsurpassed. His ability to present complex issues in a concise and easy-to-understand manner is astounding.'" (2018)

"Scott Seaman highly regarded in the market for his in-depth insurance expertise and is described as both 'extremely gifted' and 'a great attorney.' He is frequently called on to assist with allocation, professional liability and construction defect issues as well as other insurance disputes." (2017)

"Scott Seaman has the 'uncanny ability to make the complex understandable,' according to commentators, who point to his superb knowledge in the insurance space. He is highly respected for his robust insurance and reinsurance litigation practice, with sources particularly highlighting that 'he's the expert when it comes to excess and umbrella policies.'" (2016)

"'Superior trial lawyer' Scott Seaman is experienced in all forms of insurance dispute. According to clients, 'he is a straight shooter who is experienced and knows the issues. We like the results that he gets us.'" (2015)

"Scott Seaman is well respected for his longtime experience as a litigator, and he has notable expertise in complex insurance and reinsurance coverage cases. He is also an expert in bad faith insurance matters. Sources describe him as a 'terrific lawyer' and as someone who has the respect of the market." (2014)

"Scott Seaman is respected for his expertise in bad faith and reinsurance matters as well as complex insurance coverage cases. He has recently been involved in a series of significant litigation matters and reinsurance arbitrations." (2013)

"Department head Scott Seaman has a fine reputation among clients and peers alike as 'a leading expert in complex insurance coverage issues.' He splits his practice between coverage litigation and reinsurance arbitration work, and earns particular praise from clients for his expertise in asbestos and environmental coverage issues." (2012)

"Scott Seaman is an eminent coverage lawyer with extensive experience in insurance and reinsurance, and besides practicing he writes prolifically on both topics." (2011)

"Scott Seaman is praised for his specialized experience in complex insurance and reinsurance matters." (2010)

Additionally, in Best Lawyers, clients and colleagues have said:

"Scott is an increasingly important member of our panel counsel team for complex coverage matters."

"Scott Seaman provides thorough, reliable, and timely legal work which is also cost-effective."

"I consider Scott Seaman . . . to be the country’s leading expert in the allocation of losses in complex insurance coverage matters. He possesses comprehensive knowledge of insurance law with a consummate grasp of asbestos and environmental issues. Further, his ability to boil down complicated matters and communicate them in understandable terms (both verbally and in writing) is unsurpassed, and has been enormously helpful to me over the many cases on which we have worked together. While Scott’s technical legal abilities are outstanding, his overall business acumen is even more impressive, and his industry knowledge is second to none. He has a unique ability to survey a situation, sum it up succinctly and accurately, and address it in a calm, authoritative manner. He inspires confidence. Lastly, Scott’s professional conduct and personal integrity are unquestionable. His commitment to the high standards and values held by my company, as well as his diligence and around the clock availability, has made him an indispensable asset to me."

"Mr. Seaman has a high level of experience in complex insurance and reinsurance matters. He always responds in a timely matter. He is well respected in the legal and local community. He is an excellent legal strategist and exceptional trial lawyer. He is the leading author of the Allocation of Losses in Complex Insurance Coverage Claims, which is a superb reference guide for all claim handlers. He provides practical advice that takes into account the need of a particular matter, as well as the company’s portfolio interest."

"Mr. Seaman works harder, writes better, strategizes more thoroughly, and knows more than any other lawyer that I have seen. He is highly effective in the court room (an educator and advocate), in the board room, and at the negotiation table (often disarming the opposition and coming up with creative solutions)."

"Mr. Seaman is a first-rate commercial litigator, trial lawyer, counselor, and strategist. His legal analysis and writings are superior to other lawyers. He is a creative, hard-working, practical, cost-effective, and accessible advocate."

"When it comes to insurance coverage, Scott is one of the most knowledgeable attorneys in the country. He is continually ahead of the curve and ready to tackle any complex legal situation. His willingness to provide guidance and educate in a meaningful way is greatly appreciated. His commitment to his clients and community are second to none."

"Scott’s extensive experience in the A&E and latent claims coverage arena, coupled with his insightful ability to develop and implement strategic resolutions of high-profile insurance claims, uniquely positions him to complement any claim organization. His treatise 'Allocation of Losses in Complex Insurance Coverage Claims' is a must-have reference book for every corporate legal and risk-management claim department."

Additional Client and Market Comments Include:

2025

"Scott is an excellent attorney and extremely knowledgeable in the areas that we are concerned with."
- Market Commentator

"We have been consistently impressed by his level of knowledge, experience and advice. His ability to explain things in layman's terms and to go above and beyond to assist is also appreciated."
- Market Commentator

"A go-to for knowledge in this space. He has strong expertise in complex carrier-side insurance matters."
- Market Commentator

2024

Scott Seaman can point to a broad range of solid mandates, including handling numerous eight-figure claims for key client.
- Market Commentator

Inspires a remarkable return of appreciative client feedback, with sources praising his "intense commitment," industriousness and overall handling of other parties.
- Market Commentator

There is no doubt that Scott Seaman’s team is broadly regarded as one of Chicago’s preeminent local and national practices.
- Third Party

Scott Seaman is very bright, impressive and all over the technical side. He is also industrious; he provides high-quality work very quickly.
- Third Party

I have a high regard for his legal expertise and acumen. I'm not overly familiar with the Hinshaw firm beyond Scott Seaman. I follow the firm for Scott and not really for any other reason - he stands out. Scott is efficient, knowledgeable, and focused on what matters in the litigation or on the important matters. He has become a great resource for some of the most current insurance topics. The distinction between the firms is because of current topics like social inflation, and Scott knows the old coverage issues and is also up to date on the current topics.
- Client

Individually Scott is considered a genuine insurance coverage expert in disputes arising out of mass torts and complex direct insurance and reinsurance claims. What sets him apart in my experience is his intense commitment to his client’s definition of success and development of a thorough case-specific strategy designed to achieve it. Scott is thoroughly prepared at hearings and proceedings – I’ve never seen him caught off guard. His grasp and knowledge of relevant case law is among the best of those with whom I’ve worked. I not only regard Scott and his team to be genuine pros, but it’s clear his clients regard him as very easy to collaborate with. In short, Scott’s high-level subject matter expertise and dogged determination set him apart as among the best advocates I’ve had the pleasure to work with.
- Third Party

Scott Seaman, John DeLascio and Jason Schulze are all excellent lawyers and extremely responsive, and there you are getting value for your dollar.
- Client

Scott Seaman has done a great job. He is a good negotiator, able to identify issues quickly, has good rapport with other parties and is able to get information in a non-confrontational way.
- Client

Scott Seaman knows the industry very well. He is knowledgeable on the issues.
- Market Commentator

2023

Scott Seaman’s client service and general level of service is very strong. His level of sophistication is very strong. His commercial vision and awareness is very strong. Scott is a great lawyer that does a wonderful job in defending any matter. Scott always works smartly.
- Client

Scott is a superb reinsurance and insurance coverage lawyer whom I consider to be among a small group of the most knowledgeable in the industry. Among his many positive traits is a remarkable level of client commitment coupled with superb preparation and understanding of how to successfully address the most complex and difficult issues. His treatise on Allocation of Complex Insurance Claims is a recognized and frequently cited industry standard.
- Third Party

Scott Seaman writes a lot of articles. He is a thought leader.
- Market Commentator

Described by one market source as a "thought leader," Seaman continues to command market visibility. His activity in the space is impressive; he consistently leads the team's more complex mandates, including the lead paint coverage matter with Affiliated FM.
- Market Commentator

2022

Scott Seaman remains the cornerstone of the practice, leading the majority of its showcased highlights and receiving the bulk of the feedback. Both of these underline his importance to the practice and outstanding level of activity in the area. . . .
- Market Commentator

Scott Seaman is a brilliant lawyer. He brings a unique level of energy, insight and creative problem solving, as well as a genuine focus upon the client experience. He is a delight to work with and brings humor and wit to the journey. His level of client service, sophistication and commercial awareness are very strong.
- Client

Scott is a top-level coverage attorney with national experience and working knowledge of case law and the landscape in numerous states. He is a very effective advocate and negotiator. His level of client service, sophistication and commercial awareness is very strong.
- Client

I would rate his client service, commercial vision and level of sophistication as very strong. He is a great lawyer. He and his team are very responsive.
- Client

Scott Seaman’s level of client service and general level of service, sophistication and commercial awareness is very strong. His knowledge of an incredibly wide range of insurance coverage issues is unparalleled.
- Client

[The firm’s] commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives is very strong, as is its commercial awareness, value for money and client service. Their responsiveness, depth and breadth of the team is also very strong. We rely on Scott Seaman, who has a very capable team of other partners and associates. Their ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters is very strong.
- Client

We see him regularly. He is a great guy and a good lawyer. He is very smart and active.
- Market Commentator

I have worked with him. I rate him highly.
- Market Commentator

He is a great lawyer. I have high regard for him.
- Market Commentator

Professional Background

Prior to joining Hinshaw, Scott was a partner in a litigation firm headquartered in Chicago, where he served as chairman of that firm's national insurance coverage litigation and counseling practice. He began his legal career at the international firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, and Flom and was a member of its general litigation, products liability, and insurance coverage practice groups.

Scott is a prolific author, writing on a variety of substantive legal issues as well as on litigation practice matters. His two-volume treatise, Allocation of Losses in Complex Insurance Claims (13th Ed Thomson Reuters 2025), addresses many of the important issues driving contemporary insurance claims and coverage litigation and reinsurance cessions and arbitrations. Scott serves on the Law360 Insurance Authority General Liability Advisory Board. He previously served on the Law360 Insurance Authority General Liability Advisory Board and as a LexisNexis legal commentator.

Scott’s Past and Present Affiliations

ARIAS US
Claims and Litigation Management Alliance, Co-Chair; Reinsurance Runoff Advisory Board
American Bar Association, Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section, Member and past Vice-Chair; Litigation Section; Litigation Section Business Interruption Insurance Subcommittee, past Co-Chair
DRI, Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee; Insurance Committee; Commercial Litigation Committee; International Law Committee; Climate Change Litigation Task Force; Business Torts SLG
Law360, 2025 Insurance Authority Specialty Lines Advisory Board
Law360, 2024 Insurance Authority General Liability Editorial Advisory Board
Professional Liability Underwriting Society
Trial Law Institute
Diversity Law Institute
Order of Veritas, Barrister
Order of Certus, Advocate
Leading Lawyers, Former Advisory Board Member

Areas of Focus

Industries:

Services:

Initiatives:

- International Law & Alliances;
- Nationwide Litigation Portfolio Management

Experience

An asbestos reinsurance case resulting in a landmark allocation ruling by the New Jersey Supreme Court.
An asbestos and environmental coverage action resulting in a key number of occurrences ruling by New York's highest court.
A Delaware Supreme Court decision enforcing tobacco exclusions.
Multiple non-products coverage and asbestos bankruptcy matters.
A Florida appellate court decision affirming a ruling that defective construction is not an "occurrence."

Recognition

Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business, Illinois, Insurance Dispute Resolution, 2010 – present
The Best Lawyers in America®, Insurance Law, 2010 – 2026; Litigation – Insurance, 2023 – 2026
Crain's Chicago Business, Notable Leader in Accounting, Consulting & Law, 2024; Crain's Chicago Business, Notable Litigator & Trial Attorney 2025
Illinois Super Lawyers, 2005 – 2025
JD Supra Readers' Choice Awards, Top Author in Insurance, 2021 – 2025
American Bar Foundation, Fellow, 2021 – present
Litigation Counsel of America, Fellow, 2019 – present
American College of Coverage Counsel, Fellow, 2013 – present
Lexology, International "Lexology Index," Insurance & Reinsurance, Recommended, 2014 – present; Thought Leaders – USA – Insurance & Reinsurance, 2019 – present
Euromoney Legal Media Group, Expert Guides: World's Leading Insurance and Reinsurance Lawyers, 2018 – present
Leading Lawyers, Commercial Litigation and Insurance; Insurance Coverage & Reinsurance Law, 2009 – present
Martindale-Hubbell, AV® Preeminent Peer Review Rating, 1999 – present
CEO Monthly, Chairperson Awards, Insurance & Business Lawyer of the Year, 2024
International Advisory Award, Insurance – Illinois, 2022
The American Lawyer, Midwest Trailblazer, 2021
Finance Monthly, Insurance & Reinsurance – Lawyer of the Year – USA, 2018
Corporate Insider, Excellence in Commercial Litigation – Illinois, 2017
Legal Comprehensive, Top Lawyers in the World, 2016 – 2017
Corporate Int'l Magazine, Insurance Attorney of the Year in Illinois, 2014 – 2017
Global Law Expert Practice Awards, Insurance Attorney of the Year in Illinois, 2014 – 2016
Lawyers World, Premier 500, 2015; Leading Lawyers Award, Insurance and Reinsurance, North America, 2012 and 2013
Corporate LiveWire, Illinois Lawyer of the Year – Litigation, 2013 and 2014
InterContinental Finance Magazine, Continent Awards, Insurance & Reinsurance Litigator – North America, 2013
Corporate INTL Legal Awards, Insurance Law – Lawyer of the Year, Illinois, 2013
America's Most Honored Professionals
ICFM Leading Lawyers 500

Credentials

Education

Loyola University Chicago School of Law, JD, magna cum laude
- Scott graduated first in his law school class and served as an editor of the Loyola University School of Chicago Law Journal. He received numerous scholarship and leadership awards, including the Illinois Lawyers Auxiliary Scholarship, the Loyola Leadership and Service Award, the Chief Justice Roger B. Taney Award, the Judge John C. Hayes Award, the Thomas L. Owens Award, and the Judge John V. McCormack Award.
Barat College, BA, with honors
- Scott graduated with honors in Business Management and Economics and delivered the commencement speech.

Bar Admissions

Illinois

Court Admissions

US Supreme Court
US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
US Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit
US District Court for the Northern District of Florida
US District Court for the Central District of Illinois
US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
US District Court for the Southern District of Indiana

Thought Leadership

Presentations

Scott is regularly consulted by and has been quoted in numerous leading publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Business Insurance, Crain's Chicago Business, Law360, American Lawyer, Bloomberg Law, Yahoo Finance, Yale Environment 360, and Carrier Management. Publications and reporters have turned to him on a wide range of business industry, legal and litigation, and trial and practice management issues, such as: trigger, allocation, exhaustion, coordination of coverage, choice of law, defense, indemnity, investigation, claims handling, underwriting, supply chain, force majeure, breach of contract, bad faith and extracontractual liability, cyber security, privacy, and cyber coverage, discovery, responding to reptilian tactics, torts, transactions insurance, bankruptcy, product liability and product liability coverage, claims made issues, liability insurance, first-party property insurance, reinsurance, directors' and officers' liability, environmental and forever chemical claims, construction and construction defect, riot and civil commotion, trade, the Russian Ukrainian war, attorney-client communication, joint defense privilege, compensatory damages, punitive damages, disgorgement, equitable relief, stipulated judgments, US Supreme Court jurisprudence, security claims, energy and energy coverage, fraud, viruses and communicable disease, sexual abuse cases, ESG/sustainability, class actions, climate change, fortuity, adjuster liability, greenwashing and misrepresentation, social inflation, and regulation.

He previously hosted Insurance Law Radio, airing on the Blog Talk Radio Network. He hosts Hinshaw's Insurance Law Television, which was honored with the 2024 and 2025 Professional Services Distinction Awards at the 30th and 31st Annual Communicator Awards.

He has chaired and co-chaired conferences for, and has presented to and on behalf of, many organizations, including: the American Bar Association, the DRI, the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education, ARIAS US, Claims and Litigation Management Alliance, the Illinois State Bar Association, the Chicago Bar Association, PLRB/LIRB, Lorman Education Services, the Bermuda Bar Association, Strafford, Perrin, the Claims Litigation Management Alliance, the American Conference Institute, and West Legalworks.

His recent presentations include:

Co-Presenter, "Viewpoints on ESG from the C-Suite to the Supreme Court," RISKWORLD 2025, Chicago, Illinois, May 7, 2025
"Time to Focus: Reps and Warranties, Tax Insurance, Adverse Judgment and Judgment Preservation Insurance, Oh My!," RISKWORLD 2025, Chicago, Illinois, May 6, 2025
Co-Presenter, "Environmental Insurance Coverage Under CGL, Property, and D&O Policies for PFASs, ESG, NRS, CERCLA, RCRA, OPA, and Others," Strafford, CLE Webinar, January 7, 2025
Co-Presenter, "Confirming Chapter 11 Plans With Insurance-Funded Settlements: Strategies After Truck Ins. Exchange v. Kaiser Gypsum," Strafford, CLE Webinar, August 8, 2024
Co-Presenter, "Excess Insurer's Duties to Defend and Indemnify: Exhaustion, Claims Not Covered by Primary, Defense-Cost Reimbursement," Strafford, CLE Webinar, May 7, 2024

Co-Presenter, "M&A Transactions Insurance: Maximizing Deal Value, Managing Risks, Solving Challenging Negotiation Points, and Available Coverages," Strafford, CLE Webinar, April 17, 2024
Co-Presenter, "Horizontal vs. Vertical Exhaustion of Insurance: Priority of Coverage and Settlement for Below Policy Limits," Strafford, CLE Webinar, February 27, 2024
Co-Presenter, "Environmental Insurance Coverage Under CGL, Property, and D&O Policies for PFASs, ESG, NRS, CERCLA, RCRA, OPA, and Others," Strafford, CLE Webinar, October 3, 2023
Co-Presenter, "Establishing and Challenging Exhaustion of Insurance Policies: Recurring Issues, Factors to Consider, Below Limits Settlements," Strafford, CLE Webinar, July 11, 2023
"Confronting the Triple Threat of Social Inflation, Economic Inflation, and Greenflation," Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP, Webinar, April 27, 2023
Co-Presenter, "Allocation of Liability and Exhaustion of Policy Limits: Policyholder and Carrier Perspectives," Strafford, February 7, 2023
"Confronting the Combined Forces of Social Inflation, Price Level Inflation, and Greenflation," January 2023
Co-Presenter, "Environmental Insurance Coverage Under CGL, Property, and D&O Policies for PFASs, ESG, NRS, CERCLA, RCRA, OPA and Others," Strafford, September 13, 2022
Panelist, "Insurer’s Right and Duty to Defend: Pre-Tender Costs; Target Tender Issues; Non-Covered Claims, Parties, Periods," Strafford, February 8, 2022
Panelist, "Cybersecurity Updates and Insights 2021," American Property Casualty Insurance Association's (APCIA) Western Region General Counsel Conference, Virtual Event, July 28, 2021
Panelist, "Ripped From the Headlines – Insurance and Reinsurance Issues in Current Events," ARIAS 2021 Spring Conference, Virtual Event, May 7, 2021
"A Comparison of UK and US Insurance Trends," Virtual Event, February 2021
"A Look at U.S. Insurance Trends, Insurance Covered," Season 1, Ep. 8, July 9, 2020
"Tales from Covid: Insurance in the Time of Coronavirus – Bad Faith Claims," Hinshaw/RPC Web Cast, June 2020
"Tales from Covid: Insurance in the Time of Coronavirus – Bankruptcy and Insolvency of Insureds," Hinshaw/RPC Web Cast, June 2020
"A Look at What's Driving Claims and Exposures in the U.S.," Hinshaw & RPC Joint Seminar, February 26, 2020
"Advocating Allocation of Liability and Exhaustion of Policy Limits: Policyholder and Carrier Perspectives," Strafford, February 5, 2020
"First-Party Property Settlement of Claims," 2020
"Is the 'Common Interest' Exception Shrinking?," ACC Dialogue, 2020
"Allocation of Liability Coverage Between Covered and Non-Covered Claims," DRI, 2019
"Traditional & Emerging Environmental Coverage Disputes, Developments & Key Issues," Strafford, 2019
"Roundtable on Issues Confronting Insurer and Reinsurance Lawyers and Their Clients in the Industry Today," Who's Who Legal, 2018
"Environmental Insurance Coverage Law: Defenses, Developments & Key Issues," Strafford, 2017
"Resolving Defense Cost Issues: The Right and Duty to Defend, Targeted Tender, Pre-Tender Costs, Reimbursement & Other Defense Cost Issues," Strafford, 2017
"Staying Above Water in the Aftermath of the Viking Pump case," webinar, ARIAS US, 2016
"Arbitrations and Drafting Effective Dispute Resolution Clauses," Intermediaries and Reinsurance Underwriters Association (IRUA) meeting, New York, New York, October 2016
"Fundamental & Emerging Issues In Umbrella & Excess Insurance," Strafford, 2016
"The Latest Developments In Insurance Bad Faith Litigation," DRI, 2016
"The Impact of Industry Consolidation on the Arbitration Process," ARIAS US, 2015
"Current Reinsurance Trends, Issues, and Insights," Reuters/DRI, 2015
Co-Chair "Second National Forum on Insurance Allocation," American Law Institute, 2015
"Excess Insurance: Questions Raised by Qualcomm and Issues Relating to the Duty to Defend," American Law Institute, 2015
"The Fundamentals of Reinsurance," Claims and Litigation Management Alliance, 2015
"Duty to Defend: Analyzing Complex Issues," PLRB/LIRB, 2014
"Insurer's Duty to Defend: Resolving Defense Cost Issues Strategies for Cost Reimbursement and Allocation," Strafford, 2010 – 2014
"Environmental Insurance Coverage: Latest Developments Climate Change, Natural Resource Damage Claims, Mold, and Fracking," Strafford, 2014 and 2015
"Excess Insurer's Duty to Defend and Indemnify: Navigating Critical Challenges: Absence of Underlying Exhaustion, Settlement With Primary, Claims Not Covered By Primary, and Reimbursement of Defense Costs," Strafford, 2012 – 2015
"Don't Get Thrown Under The Buss: Insurers' Duties and Rights in Mixed Claims," DRI, 2013
"Insurance Practice Business Development," Chicago Bar Association, 2013
"Follow the Fortunes & Utmost Good Faith: The 'Yin' and 'Yang' of the Reinsurance Relationship in the Context of Captive Insurance," ARIAS, 2013
"Sharing the Fun Associated With Defective Construction Losses: Indemnity, Subrogation & Contribution," DRI, 2012
"Excess Insurer's Duty to Defend and Indemnify: Strategies to Limit the Scope of the Excess Insurer's Obligations," Strafford, 2010 – 2013
"Environmental Insurance Coverage: Latest Developments Identifying Coverage In Existing Policies, Navigating Pollution and Owned Property Exclusions, and Determining Scope of Damages," Strafford, 2011
"Impact of Unavailability of Insurance on Allocation, Insurance Bad Faith and Extra Contractual Exposure, and Hot Topics," Bermuda Bar Association, 2011
"Effective Claims Handling and Efficient Management of Coverage Litigation," Chicago Bar Association, 2011
"Where the Economics Hit the Road: Valuing Practical Settlement Options," Perrin, 2011
"Charting a Course Through the Grey Areas of Insurance Allocation," Perrin, 2011
"Global Warming and Insurance Claims and Coverage Issues," ISBA, 2011
"How Insurers Can Avoid Conflict or Begin Coverage Litigation With Proper Coverage Armaments," Chicago Bar Association, 2011
"Bad Faith Damages and Steps to Minimize Such Damages," DRI, 2010
"Nationwide Bad Faith Issues," Chicago Bar Association, 2010
"Insurance and Reinsurance Allocation — A Comprehensive Workshop," West Legalworks, 2007 – 2010
"Contemporary Reinsurance Arbitrations — Issues and Insights," West Legalworks
"Emerging Insurance Coverage Issues — Global Warming Claims and Coverage Issues," Chicago Bar Association
"Global Warming Litigation and Insurance Coverage Issues," West Legalworks
"Allocation Issues Presented By Reinsurance Cessions: Perspectives of Ceding Companies, Reinsurers, and Umpires," West Legalworks
"A Basic Overview of Issues Potentially Impacting Insurance Coverage Resulting From a Policyholder's Chapter 11 Bankruptcy," West Legalworks

Publications

Scott writes extensively on substantive legal issues, insurance and reinsurance topics, and litigation practice matters. His writings have been recognized by courts, parties and commentators, and they have been cited by the highest courts in Arizona, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, South Carolina, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and by state and federal appellate and trial courts across the country. His publications include:

Books and Chapters (Authored or Co-Authored)

Allocation of Losses In Complex Insurance Claims, (13th Ed. Thomson Reuters 2025)
"USA," 2025 Annual Insurance Review, RPC, (2025)
"Chapter 8 Allocating Defense Costs," The Insurer’s Duty to Defend: Issues and Analysis (ABA 2024)
General Editor and Co-Author, Chapters 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7, Wrongful-Death and Survival Actions, (Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education, 2023 Edition) (prior editions 2014, 2011, 2007, 2003, and 1993)
"Duty to Defend: A Fifty State Survey," (Second Edition) (Hinshaw 2023 and 2017)
"50 State Survey: Requirements to Communicate with Insureds for Property and Casualty Claims: Volume VI" (Hinshaw 2021)
"50 State Survey: Workers' Compensation Law Exclusivity, Exceptions, Third Party Action Over Claims & COVID-19" (Hinshaw 2020)
"An Insurance Coverage & Reinsurance Primer On Coronavirus (COVID-19) Claims" (Hinshaw 2020)
"Chapter 6 Pertinent Reinsurance Contract Provisions," Reinsurance Professional's Deskbook - A Practical Guide (2019 – 2020 Ed. Thomson Reuters) (Prior editions 2017 – 2018 and 2015 – 2016)
"A Primer on Reinsurance Law & Principles" (Hinshaw 2016)
"Chapter 17 Excess Insurance Coverage," Environmental Liability & Insurance Recovery (ABA 2012)
"Reinsurance Law & Practice: A Primer on Basic Principles & Contemporary Issues in Illinois" (BRMA 1999)
"Reinsurance Law & Practice: An Overview of Principles and Contemporary Issues" (Glasser 1999)
"Reasonable Defense Costs, Legal Fees, and the Legal Audit" (Glasser 1999)
"Environmental Coverage: Law and Litigation," Liability Insurance (IICLE 1996, 1998 Supp.)
"Employing Discovery, Investigation, and Surprise to Capture Plaintiff's Expert," Defense Practice Notebook (DRI 1996)

Articles and Papers (Authored or Co-Authored)

"The Ultimate Social Inflation Survival Guide: Containing Rising Claims Costs In A World Rife With Economic Inflation, Litigation Funding, Nuclear Verdicts, And Anti-Corporate Sentiment," published in Mealey’s Asbestos Report: Vol. 40, # 6, April 23, 2025; Mealey’s Emerging Insurance Disputes: Vol. 30, # 8, April 17, 2025; Mealey’s Personal Injury Report, Vol. 21, April 2025
"Sustainability Recalibration: What Insurers And Policyholders Should Know About ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance Considerations) Under Trump 2.0, Part 1," published in Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance March 5, 2025; Mealey’s Emerging Insurance Disputes March 6, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Reinsurance March 7, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Pollution Liability March 10, 2025; Mealey’s Emerging Securities Litigation March 10, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: ERISA March 12, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Catastrophic Loss March 14, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Cyber Tech & E-Commerce March 18, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance Bad Faith March 18, 2025; and Mealey’s Asbestos Bankruptcy Report March 28, 2025
"Sustainability Recalibration: What Insurers And Policyholders Should Know About ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance Considerations) Under Trump 2.0, Part 2," published in Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance March 12, 2025; Mealey’s Emerging Insurance Disputes March 20, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Reinsurance March 21, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: ERISA April 9, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Catastrophic Loss April 11, 2025; Mealey’s Emerging Securities Litigation April 14, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Pollution Liability April 14, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Cyber Tech & E-Commerce April 15, 2025; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance Bad Faith April 15, 2025; and Mealey’s Asbestos Bankruptcy Report April 25, 2025
"2024 Key Insurance Decisions, Trends, & Developments & A Look Ahead To 2025," published in Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance December 4, 2024; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Catastrophic Loss December 13, 2024; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance Bad Faith December 3, 2024; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Asbestos December 4, 2024; Mealey’s Artificial Intelligence December 11, 2024; Mealey’s Emerging Toxic Torts December 17, 2024; Mealey’s Asbestos Bankruptcy Report on December 20, 2024; Mealey’s Emerging Insurance Disputes December 5, 2024; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Reinsurance December 6, 2024; Mealey’s Coronavirus Law November 26, 2024; Mealey’s Personal Injury Report November 27, 2024; Mealey’s Litigation Report: ERISA December 11, 2024; Mealey’s Fracking Report December 10, 2024; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance Insolvency December 23, 2024; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Cyber Tech & E-Commerce December 17, 2024; and Mealey’s Emerging Securities December 9, 2024
"Key Insurance Decisions, Trends, and Developments in 2024 and a Look Ahead to 2025," JD Supra (December 5, 2024)
"Key Insurance Implications Of Hawaii's Historic GHG Ruling," Law360, October 17, 2024
"A Primer On PFAS/Forever Chemical Claims: Regulation, Litigation, Large Losses & Insurance Coverage Issues," Mealey's Pollution Liability Report, Vol. 37, #8, (May 2024)
"Fire & Rain: 2023 Key Decisions & Developments Impacting the Wide World of Insurance," Mealey’s Litigation Reports (2023)
[This article has been published in Mealey’s Litigation Reports: Mealey’s Coronavirus Law; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Class Action; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Insurance Bad Faith; Mealey’s Emerging Insurance Disputes; Mealey’s Emerging Securities Litigation; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Asbestos; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Reinsurance; Mealey’s Emerging Toxic Torts; Mealey’s Asbestos Bankruptcy; Mealey’s Litigation Report: Catastrophic Loss; and Mealey’s Artificial Intelligence.]
"Insurers Prepare for Large Exposures from PFAS Claims," Law360, August 23, 2023
"What The ESG Divide Means For Insurers And Beyond," Law360, July 13, 2023
"The Social Inflation Survival Guide: Identifying and Surviving the Dangerous Triple Barrel Threat of Social Inflation, Economic Inflation, and Greenflation in a Judicial Environment Swarming With Reptiles and Bombarded With Nuclear Verdicts," JD Supra (January 17, 2023)
Key Insurance Cases and Developments – 2022 In Review, RPC's Annual Insurance Review 2023 (January 12, 2023)
Expert Analysis - Opinion: Taming Plaintiffs' Thriving 'Reptile' Tactics: How To Start, Law360 (July 26, 2022)
Expert Analysis: Seaman and Webster Examine One of the Leading Drivers of Social Inflation—the "Reptile Theory" Adopted by Plaintiffs' Counsel (July 20, 2022)
"The United States: Insurers Are Prevailing In Coverage Cases, But COVID-19 Still Is Contributing To Social Inflation," Mealey's Emerging Insurance Disputes, Vol. 27, No. 12 (June 16, 2022)
"Key U.S. Insurance Decisions, Trends, & Developments: ESG, Social Inflation, COVID-19, Cyber/Privacy, Civil Unrest, Opioids, Lead, Sexual Assault, & Other Perils Figure Prominently," Mealey's Emerging Insurance Disputes, Vol. 27, No. 1 (January 10, 2022)
"A Review of Emerging Trends In Mergers & Acquisitions and Representations & Warranties Insurance," Mealey's Litigation Report: Emerging Insurance Disputes, Vol. 26, No. 7 (April 2021)
"Insurance & Reinsurance – USA Trends and Developments," Chambers and Partners Global Practice Guides (February 2021)
"2020 Cyber And Privacy Coverage – A Year In Review," Mealey's Litigation Report: Emerging Insurance Disputes, Vol. 26, No. 1 (January 2021)
"Commercial Property Policies Are Hardly A Panacea For COVID-19 Business Interruption Losses," Mealey's Litigation Report: Catastrophic Loss, Vol. 15, No. 12 (September 2020)
"COVID-19 Related Business Interruption Coverage Claims in the Age of Zoom," Mealey's Litigation Report: Insurance, Vol. 34, No. 40 (August 2020)
"Property Coverage For Riot-Related Claims Is Not Automatic," Law360, New York (June 18, 2020)
"An Overview Of COVID-19 Related Legislative, Regulatory, & Litigation Activity & The Potential Impact On Insurer Solvency," Mealey's Litigation Report: Insurance Insolvency, Vol. 31, No. 12 (April 2020)
"Tracking The Flurry Of COVID-19 Related Legislative & Regulatory Activity Impacting Insurers," Mealey's Litigation Report: Catastrophic Loss, Vol. 15, No. 7 (April 2020)
"Reinsurers Must Prepare for Coronavirus-Related Claims," Law360, New York, (April 9, 2020)
"Tracking The Flurry Of COVID-19 Related Legislative & Regulatory Activity Impacting Insurers," Mealey's Litigation Report: Insurance, Vol. 34, No. 21 (April 1, 2020)
"The Legal Trends Behind 'Social Inflation' in Insurance," Law360, New York, (February 21, 2020)
"New York Court of Appeals Slams Door on 'Unavailability of Insurance' Exception," Law360, New York (March 30, 2018)
"Opioid Insurance Litigation Is Mounting With Mixed Results," Law360, New York (November 21, 2017)
"ALI Draft Restatement Misstates Key Insurance Law Issues," Law360, New York (September 18, 2017)
"Key Insurance Coverage Trends and Decisions in the United States" Who's Who Legal: Insurance & Reinsurance (May 2017)
"Door Closing on "Unavailability of Insurance" Exception: Part 2," Law360, New York (January 10, 2017)
"Door Closing on "Unavailability of Insurance" Exception: Part 1," Law360, New York (January 9, 2017)
"The Bellefonte Cap Returns," Best's Review (August 2016)
"The Latest Developments in Insurance Bad Faith Litigation," DRI 2016
"The Tiring Terrain Insurance Contract Exhaustion," Law360, New York (June 12, 2015)
"Indiana Supreme Court Shows Limits of 'All Sums' Allocation," Law360, New York (May 28, 2015)
"Why Pro Rata Allocation Is the Majority Rule," Law360, New York (October 16, 2014)
"NJ Courts Continue to Grapple With Allocation Issues," Law360, New York (October 7, 2014)
"A Journey Through the Fundamental Requirement of Exhaustion," CPCU Reinsurance Encounters, Vol. 32, No. 1 (January 2014)
"Don't Get Thrown Under The Buss: Insurers' Duties and Rights in Mixed Claims" (DRI 2013)
"Contribution, Indemnity, Subrogation, and Allocation in Construction Defect Cases" (PLRB 2013)
"Sharing the Fun Associated With Defective Construction Losses: Indemnity, Subrogation, and Contribution" (DRI 2012)
"Number of Occurrences, Policy Periods, Exhaustion and Other Considerations Affecting Allocation of Losses," CPCU Reinsurance Encounters, Vol. 30, No. 1 (April 2012)
"Insurers Saddled With Disproportionate Share of Loss Seek Reallocation Through Contribution Claims and 'Other Insurance' Clauses," CPCU Reinsurance Encounters, Vol. 29, No. 3 (December 2011)
"A Primer on Allocation Methodologies — The 'All Sums' and Various 'Pro Rata' Approaches," CPCU Reinsurance Encounters, Vol. 29, No. 1 (March 2011)
"Triggering Occurrence-Based Contracts and Understanding Claims-Made Contract Requirements," CPCU Reinsurance Encounters, Vol. 28, No. 3 (December 2010)
"Professional Liability and Global Warming Claims" Liability For Climate Change? Experts' Views on a Potential Emerging Risk (Munich Re 2010)
"Emerging Issues: Global Warming Claims and Coverage Issues," Defense Counsel Journal, Vol. 76 (January 2009)
"Global Warming Claims and Insurance Coverage Issues," Declarations (Winter 2008)
"The Illinois Supreme Court's Decision In Kajima Limits Illinois' 'Targeted Tender' Rule and Establishes Illinois as a Pro Rata Allocation Jurisdiction," Mealey's Litigation Report: Insurance, Vol. 22, No. 11 (January 17, 2008)
"Allocation Issues Presented By Reinsurance Cessions: Perspectives of Ceding Companies, Reinsurers, and Umpires," The Insurance and Reinsurance Allocation Party's National Convention (West Legalworks 2007)
"A Basic Overview of Issues Potentially Impacting Insurance Coverage Resulting From a Policyholder's Chapter 11 Bankruptcy," The Insurance and Reinsurance Allocation Superbowl (West Legalworks 2007)
"Insurance Settlements and Buy-Outs: You Can't Always Get What You Want, But If You Try, You Can Get What You Need," (ABA Insurance Coverage Committee March 2007)
"Recent Developments In Excess, Surplus Lines, and Reinsurance Law," Tort & Insurance Law Journal, Vol. 39, No. 2 (Winter 2004)
"Bankruptcy & Insurance Coverage Issues in the Context of Asbestos-Related Claims" (2003)
"An Overview of Allocation Methodologies for Defense and Indemnity Costs and Insurers' Rights of Recoupment" (DRI 2001)
"Defense Cost Allocations, Recoupment and Reasonable Attorney Fees" (West 2000)
"The Year 2000 Problem: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly," Mealey's Litigation Report: Insurance, Vol. 13, No. 33 (July 7, 1999)
"An Overview of the Firearms Industry Litigation" (March 1999)
"A Comprehensive Analysis of Allocation/Apportionment of Losses Involving Complex Insurance Coverage Claims," Focus On Excess Insurance (Lorman Education Services February 1999)
"The Good the Bad and the Ugly About Joint Defense," The Brief ABA Tort & Insurance Practice Section, Vol. 28, No. 1 (Fall 1998)
"All Counsel for Insurers that Participated in a Joint Defense are Disqualified," For The Defense Vol. 39, No. 8 (August 1997)
"Mounting the Joint Defense in Complex Insurance Coverage Litigation," For The Defense Vol. 39, No. 7 (July 1997)
"The Anatomy of a Joint Defense in Complex Insurance Coverage Litigation," For The Defense Vol. 39, No. 6 (June 1997)
"Excess Liability Insurance: Law and Litigation," Tort & Insurance Law Journal, Vol. 32, No. 3 (ABA, Spring 1997)
"Substantive Coverage Issues In 'Long Tail' Claims: Trigger, Pollution Exclusion, and Duty to Defend," Environmental Coverage Litigation — From Soup to Nuts (ISBA May 1997)
"Excess Liability Insurance Issues in an Era of Increased Exposure and Visibility," Sixth Annual Institute Contemporary Reinsurance and Excess Insurance Issues (Glasser 1996)
"Can Daubert Bar 'Witchcraft' From The Courtroom? Or Does the Case Only Heighten the Level of Judicial Scrutiny," Corporate Legal Times (May 1995)
"Think Proactively About Product Liability Management," Corporate Legal Times (September 1994)
"Using Surprise to Capture the Expert Witness," For The Defense, (April 1993)
"Achieving Case Objectives Through Deposition Strategy" (ABA TIPS, August 1990)
"When The Other Side Sends You a Subpoena," The Brief ABA Tort & Insurance Practice Section, Vol. 19, No.3, (Spring 1990)

Events

Scott Seaman Provides Insights on Transaction Insurance and ESG, May 6, 2025
Scott Seaman to Speak on Best Practices and Strategies for Confirming Chapter 11 Plans with Insurance-Funded Settlements, Aug 8, 2024
Scott Seaman to Speak on Excess Insurer's Duties to Defend and Indemnify, May 7, 2024
Scott Seaman to Speak on M&A Transactional Liability Insurance, Apr 17, 2024
Scott Seaman to Speak on Insurance Coverage and Settlements for Below Policy Limits, Feb 27, 2024

Hinshaw Alerts

In The News

Insights for Insurers Alerts

[White Paper] The Ultimate Social Inflation Survival Guide, Apr 17, 2025
[White Paper] Part Two: What Insurers and Policyholders Should Know About ESG Under Trump 2.0, Mar 13, 2025
[White Paper] Part One: What Insurers and Policyholders Should Know About ESG Under Trump 2.0, Mar 10, 2025
Hinshaw Readers' Choice Awards: Top Insurance Articles of 2024, Dec 30, 2024
[White Paper] A Look Back at Key Insurance Developments in 2024 and a Look Ahead to 2025, Dec 4, 2024

Press Releases

Webinars

Scott Seaman Speaks on Navigating Insurer Compliance Challenges , May 20, 2025
Scott Seaman Speaks on Environmental Insurance Coverage in Strafford CLE Webinar, Jan 7, 2025
Webinar Series: Insurance Insights – What Insurers Need to Know in 2021, Apr 29, 2021
Scott Seaman to Address Allocation Developments and Challenges for Insurance Counsel in Strafford Webinar, Feb 5, 2020
Scott Seaman to Speak on Duty to Defend and Defense Cost Issues, Jun 14, 2017

View all of Scott's Insights

Interests

Community/Civic Activities

Scott is engaged in a variety of community and civic activities including those involving civil rights, health, economics, leadership and community service. He writes on these topics in addition to writing on legal, insurance, and litigation matters. His past and present activities include:

Member of the National Board of Selectors Jefferson Awards for Public Service (Nobel Prize for public and community service). In this capacity he selected national winners, served on a delegation presenting reports to the White House and the US Senate on the state of volunteering in America, and was involved in a national high school leadership and philanthropy program.
Jefferson Awards Chicago, Co-Chair
Lymphoma Research Foundation, Co-Founder of the Chicago Chapter and Inaugural Tribute Award Recipient
American Forum on Lymphoma in Los Angeles, Keynote Speaker, North American Forum, 2006
Founding Board Member of the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation
Co-Author of Conquering and Curing Cancer – The Cancer Survival Book
Serves on other charitable boards and committees.