Our clients’ insureds range from solo practitioners to the largest professional services firms in the world. We are routinely involved in bet-the-company claims with alleged damages in the billions of dollars. Our team prides itself on our zealous representation of insurers’ interests without losing sight of our clients’ valuable relationships with brokers and their insureds.
In this capacity, we regularly:
As the development of generative AI continues to transform industries, one of the most pressing legal questions has been whether training large language models on copyrighted books qualifies as fair use.
Following a potential breach of personal data, whether or not through a malicious attack, organisations operating in the United Kingdom (“UK”) can expect regulatory scrutiny and claims for compensation, on top of their own significant costs and losses incurred as a direct result of the incident.
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Bill has years of experience representing professionals, insurers, and reinsurers, in litigation and arbitration. Bill’s practice includes professional liability disputes worldwide of significant size and scope. Bill also has significant law firm management experience and represents lawyers and law firms in risk management and law firm operational matters and disputes. Bill’s practice also includes litigation and counseling regarding wine industry claims and disputes, including litigation regarding counterfeit wine claims. Bill is an active participant in mediation throughout the United States, and other jurisdictions. He has been recognized by Chambers USA in California in the Insurance: Insurer category since 2007 and has been included in The Best Lawyers in America® list for Insurance Law (San Francisco, CA) since 2013. Additionally, he has earned a Martindale-Hubbell® AV Preeminent Rating® and was selected to Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers in 2004, 2006–2014 and 2017–2023. Bill graduated from Stanford University in 1980 with an A.B. in Political Science and received his J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law in 1984.
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Christina C. Marshall, known as Tina, advises London Market and domestic insurers on complex claims under policies issued to licensed professionals, including global design and construction firms, healthcare providers, real estate professionals, and law firms. She also represents insurers in a wide range of coverage matters involving professional liability, general liability, and excess and umbrella policies. Resolution-focused in her approach, she has negotiated multi-million-dollar settlements of significant, high-profile claims and disputes during her 25-year career, and she has extensive experience litigating and trying multi-party coverage cases. As a founding member of Atheria, she takes pride in the firm’s team-based culture and commitment to inclusion. She earned her J.D. from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 2000 and her B.A. from Santa Clara University. Christina is admitted to the State Bar of California and to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Northern, Eastern, and Central Districts of California. She is also a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS) and contributes to the San Francisco community through her involvement with City Hope. She has been a featured speaker on professional liability claims and California Fair Claims Practices Settlement Regulations. Outside the office, Christina enjoys life with her two children and her puppy, Pepper.
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David W. Jordan counsels professional liability insurers and their insureds in complex matters involving claims reaching billions of dollars. His practice spans six continents and includes representing some of the largest architectural and engineering firms in the world. He earned his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law in 1993 and his B.S. from the University of Alabama. David is admitted to the State Bar of California and the State Bar of Georgia, where he is active in the Professional Liability Section and the Tort and Insurance Practice Section. He is also a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS).
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Eric Moon represents insurers in connection with errors and omissions (E&O) policies issued to professionals including attorneys, architects, engineers, accountants, real estate agents, insurance brokers, business managers, and mortgage professionals. He also advises insurers on general liability, employment practices liability, property, event contingency, and miscellaneous E&O policies, and has litigated matters on behalf of both insurers and insureds. Earlier in his career, Eric practiced in London, where he worked closely with Lloyd’s syndicates and their clients. In 2019, he co-founded Atheria with partners he has collaborated with throughout his career. Eric earned his J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law in 2000 and his B.A. from Georgetown University. He is admitted to the State Bar of California and is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS). Eric has been recognized in Chambers USA (2025) and has served on the boards of several nonprofit organizations. He has also spoken at industry events including the London Professional-Indemnity Claims Roundtable and the Bar Association of San Francisco’s program “London Calling: What Every Coverage Attorney Needs to Know about Lloyd’s.” Outside the office, Eric enjoys spending time with his family and watching, coaching, and playing sports.
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Nick Lieberknecht counsels insurers on professional liability policies issued to design professionals. His global practice regularly involves complex matters with exposures exceeding $1 billion, and he frequently represents insurers — and sometimes entire insurance towers — in all aspects of coverage, including evaluating coverage, conducting risk and liability analysis of the underlying dispute, and negotiating settlements. Nick values the challenge of solving complex problems for his clients and their insureds and appreciates working with the collaborative team at Atheria. He earned his J.D. from the University of California, Davis School of Law in 2007 and his B.A.s from the University of California, San Diego. He is admitted to the State Bar of California and is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS). Nick is also the author of From Innovation to Exposure: Artificial Intelligence Risks for Legal Professionals (2025).
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Nicole Zappala Shapiro, known as Nikki, is a partner in Atheria’s Professional Liability group. She advises domestic and international insurers on claims reported under errors and omissions policies issued to attorneys, law firms, accounting firms, healthcare organizations, and other professionals. She represents clients nationwide in all aspects of insurance coverage and also counsels insurers and executives on risk management, best practices, and ethics issues. In addition to her practice, Nicole serves as Atheria’s General Counsel. Earlier in her career, she focused on commercial and business litigation and represented attorneys in professional liability disputes. She earned her J.D. from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 2002 and her B.A. from Boston College. Nicole is admitted to the State Bar of California and is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS), the Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers, and the Legal Management Resources General Counsel Roundtable. She has been a featured speaker at industry events, including the CLM Annual Conference (2024), the U.S. Professional Liability Roundtable (2024, 2025), and CLM’s Litigation Bootcamp (2025). Beyond her professional commitments, Nicole serves her community through leadership roles with the Claire Lilienthal School, including as PTA President (2023–2024) and Site Counsel Vice Chairperson (2018–2020). She enjoys spending her free time exploring new places with her husband and two daughters.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Aishlin Cook advises insurers on errors and omissions policies for a wide range of professionals, including lawyers, financial services firms, and real estate organizations. She also represents insurers on matters involving general liability, employment practices, management liability, and cyber and technology coverages. In addition, she counsels law firms on risk management, handles coverage disputes, and defends professionals in malpractice actions. She received her J.D., cum laude, from the University of California, UC Law San Francisco, where she served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal on Gender and the Law. She earned her B.A. from Saint Mary’s College of California. Aishlin values the opportunity to work alongside colleagues she has collaborated with for more than a decade, and she takes pride in building lasting partnerships with her clients. Outside the office, she enjoys exploring Northern California with her husband and children.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Andrew Le represents domestic and international insurers in connection with errors and omissions policies issued to professionals such as architects, engineers, law firms, and real estate brokerages. His practice includes advising on complex coverage issues and developing risk-management strategies in high-stakes professional liability claims and disputes. He has also represented insurers on matters involving general liability and property insurance. Andrew earned his J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law in 2017 and his B.A. from the University of California, Berkeley. He is admitted to the State Bar of California and is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS). Beyond his legal practice, Andrew supports organizations including the SPCA, the Asian American Legal Defense Fund, and Women Against Abuse. Outside the office, he enjoys time with his wife and family, is an avid board-game player, and an aspiring golfer.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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As part of the firm's professional liability practice group, Tina advises insurers with respect to complex claims reported under policies issued to global design and construction professionals. She also advises insurers in a broad range of coverage issues arising under professional liability, general liability, healthcare, and excess/umbrella policies. Tina’s practice is resolution-focused, and she has negotiated settlements of high-profile claims and coverage disputes for more than 20 years. In her free time, Tina enjoys hiking, traveling, and going to the theater (movies and musicals!) with her family.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Cory Stumpf represents London Market and U.S. insurers in a wide range of coverage matters, with a focus on professional liability, general liability, and employment claims. His practice includes advising on coverage and policy drafting, as well as litigating insurance disputes. Cory has successfully resolved numerous matters in mediation across the United States, applying a diplomatic and results-driven approach. He earned his J.D. from UCLA School of Law in 2016 and his B.A. from Gonzaga University in 2013. He is admitted to the State Bar of California and is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS). Cory has authored articles on insurance and risk mitigation, including “Risk Mitigation in Face of Rising Legal Malpractice Claims,” published in Law360 (2022). Outside the office, Cory enjoys reading historical biographies and fantasy novels and spending time with his wife and daughter.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Cynthia Winter is an experienced Executive Assistant supporting Atheria’s Professional Liability and Architects & Engineers teams. She has worked alongside the same group of attorneys for more than twenty years, including at the founding of Atheria, assisting with all aspects of practice and client service. Cynthia earned her paralegal degree in 2014 and continues to draw on her deep knowledge of the field to support both colleagues and clients. A Bay Area native, she enjoys volunteering with community organizations, exploring the arts, and discovering the region’s food scene.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Eric represents insurers in connection with errors and omissions (E&O) policies issued to a variety of professionals, including attorneys, architects, engineers, accountants, real estate agents, insurance brokers, business managers, and mortgage professionals. He also represents insurers with respect to general liability, employment practices liability, event contingency, and miscellaneous E&O policies. Earlier in his career, Eric worked in London, practicing alongside clients and working in-house with several Lloyd’s syndicates. He has litigated on behalf of both insurers and their insureds. Eric helped found Atheria with a group of partners/friends he has known his entire career. Even after more than 20 years of practice, Eric learns something new every day from collaborating with the incredible Atheria team. He received his J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law, and his B.A. (magna cum laude) from Georgetown University. Away from the office, Eric enjoys coaching and watching his children's sports teams, playing golf, traveling, and spending time outdoors.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Jessica L. Kelly counsels insurers on errors and omissions policies issued to professionals and represents insurers across a broad range of coverages, including professional liability, general liability, and employment practices. She also advises law firms on risk management, handles coverage disputes, and defends professionals in malpractice actions. For nearly two decades, Jessica has worked alongside the founding partners of Atheria, collaborating with clients and colleagues on complex and cutting-edge legal and insurance issues. She earned her J.D. from the University of California, UC Law San Francisco in 2002 and her B.A.s from the University of California, Davis. Jessica is admitted to the State Bar of California and is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS). She also serves on the boards of two educational nonprofit organizations and is a member of the National Charity League. Outside the office, Jessica enjoys running and playing tennis.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Jessica counsels insurers in connection with E&O policies issued to professionals. She represents insurers in connection with a broad range of coverages including professional liability, general liability, employment practices, and more. Jessica also counsels law firms on risk management, representing insurers in coverage disputes, and defending professionals in malpractice actions. For nearly two decades Jessica has worked with the founding partners of Atheria. She is inspired by collaborating with folks from all over the world on some of the most cutting-edge legal and insurance issues. In her free time, Jessica enjoys running and playing tennis.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Joan D’Ambrosio represents insurers in matters involving technology, media, intellectual property, and privacy claims, including data security and privacy breaches. She has overseen thousands of data breach incidents, ranging from individual claims to some of the largest healthcare, retail, hospitality, education, and government breaches reported. Joan also advises insurers and their policyholders on professional liability matters. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, she co-founded Atheria with colleagues she has worked alongside for decades, creating a firm built on teamwork, innovation, and a strong culture of inclusion. Joan earned her J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law in 1991 and her B.A. from the University of California, San Diego. She is admitted to the State Bar of California and is a member of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS). She has been recognized by Chambers USA in California (Insurance: Insurer, 2023–2024) and has repeatedly been selected to the Super Lawyers list, including most recently in 2024. She contributes to the broader legal and insurance community as a frequent author and speaker on cyber and privacy issues, with appearances at industry conferences including NetDiligence, PLUS, and Zywave Cyber Risk Insights. Beyond her professional commitments, Joan supports educational and community initiatives through organizations such as Stevenson School Alumni and Rise Up.
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Marisa Stumpf supports Atheria’s Professional Indemnity practice group. Marisa earned her B.A. from Pepperdine University. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, going to the beach, and playing the piano and ukulele.
Thank you for your interest in contacting us. Before doing so, please understand that your email will not create an attorney-client relationship with Atheria and will not preclude Atheria from representing a party with interests adverse to yours. Atheria cannot represent you until we have confirmed that our representation of you will not create a conflict of interest and you and the firm have entered into a formal engagement agreement. In the absence of an attorney-client relationship, Atheria has no duty to keep information that you transmit to us confidential. Accordingly, please do not send us any information unless and until Atheria confirms for you that an attorney-client relationship has been formed.
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Teshi Sakani is a legal assistant at Atheria and a member of the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee. She has experience in family law, mass tort litigation, and criminal defense, and she brings a strong commitment to equity and representation to her work. Teshi has aspired to a career as an attorney from a young age and plans to pursue law school in the future. She earned her B.A. from San Francisco State University. Outside the office, Teshi enjoys landscape and lifestyle photography, spending time with family and friends, and discovering new brunch spots around the Bay Area.
An insurer that brings an action against its insured in California where the insured asserts a counterclaim alleging bad faith may consider filing a motion to strike based on California’s anti-SLAPP statute.
As most insurers know, a reservation-of-rights letter is only useful to the extent that it can be enforced at a later date...
Law firms and their insurance carriers have experienced a rise in both the frequency and severity of high-exposure legal malpractice claims over the past year. As the global economy remains in a period of high inflation and economic uncertainty, there is a risk that this trend may continue.
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