Melanie B. Chapman, Attorney

Melanie Chapman's practice focuses on insurance coverage disputes. She evaluates and defends coverage disputes on behalf of major insurance carriers. 

With over 10 years experience handling insurance-related matters, Melanie is familiar with a wide range of insurance polices, including professional liability, commercial general liability, directors and officers, homeowners association, disability and automotive. This depth of experience, coupled with her skills as a litigator, enables Melanie to provide a thorough analysis of the policy language in conjunction with the allegations against the insured to determine the insurance company's rights, responsibilities and duties to the insured. 

In addition, Melanie defends insurance carriers, in both state and federal courts, against alleged wrongful denials of coverage for suits arising from a variety of claims, including personal injury, wrongful death, property damage, construction defects, advertising injury, automotive accidents and professional malpractice. If litigation is initiated, by the insured or a third party alleging breach of the insurance contract or bad faith, Melanie handles all aspects of the defense. She has successfully resolved a number of these matters in their early stages with a motion to dismiss or motion for summary judgment. When appropriate, Melanie counsels and represents insurers with respect to seeking declaratory judgment concerning various coverage disputes. If it is in the insurer's best interest to avoid litigation of coverage issues, Melanie works with all involved parties in an effort to resolve the dispute in a mutually-favorable and efficient manner.

Melanie also represents defendants in cases arising from personal injury, wrongful death, property damage, professional malpractice and products liability. Her strategic approach to litigation involves a comprehensive, timely analysis of liability and exposure balanced with the costs, benefits and risks associated with trial and settlement negotiations.