Overview
Ronald Puhala focuses his practice on litigation representing major international insurance companies on various types of claims, including general liability, environmental contamination and asbestos injury. He has also represented insurance companies regarding first party claims, including business interruption.
In addition, he has significant experience representing primary and excess carriers in complex coverage litigation; representing insurance carriers in bad faith claims. He also has experience handling reinsurance disputes between insurance carriers and representing policyholders by providing counsel regarding the scope and nature of coverage.
Professional Leadership
Ronald has presented seminars on insurance topics including coverage issues related to computer hacking and cyber claims. His most recent insurance publication regards the duty to defend.
Honors & Recognition
On multiple occasions, Ronald has been named to both the New Jersey Super Lawyers list for insurance coverage and the Best Lawyers in America list for insurance law.
Ron has been named a New York Super Lawyer in 2011-2016 and 2020. This honor is based on nomination, evaluation of professional achievements and selection by a panel of attorneys in the applicable practice area. Only 5% of the total attorneys in each state receive the Super Lawyers designation.
Beginning in 2012, Ron has been recognized on the Best Lawyers in America list for his work in Insurance Law.
More information on awards and rankings can be found here.
Education
Ronald received his B.A. degree with highest honors from Rutgers University in 1980; an M.S.W. from Rutgers University Graduate School of Social Work in 1982; a Postgraduate Certificate in Child Treatment from Boston University in 1982; and his J.D. degree, cum laude, from the University of Michigan Law School in 1991.
Ronald was a law clerk to the Honorable Ronnie A. Yorder, Federal Administrative Law Judge in Washington, D.C.
Admissions
Ronald is authorized to practice law in New York, New Jersey, Washington, D.C. and the U.S. District Courts for the Districts of New York, New Jersey and Columbia.
Publications
- “2 Lessons From Missouri All-Sums Insurance Ruling” – Law360, March 2021