The Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan represent many regional insurance companies and numerous self-insured entities. Our team has tried cases in both state and federal courts throughout New York State and has enjoyed a high success rate at trial. We also, when appropriate, incorporate alternatives to trial, such as mediation and arbitration, to achieve successful resolution of cases. We find creative ways to resolve matters in an aggressive and cost-effective manner.
The Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the Claims & Litigation Management Alliance, the Buffalo Claims Association, and the Western New York Defense Trial Lawyers Association. Our founding attorney has presented educational presentations and Continuing Legal Education seminars throughout New York State. We welcome new carriers to join the experienced team at the Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan.
The firm handles a full range of insurance defense cases. Practice areas include:
- Civil Defense Litigation, including General Negligence
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Toxic Torts
- Premise Liability
- New York Labor Law claims
- New York No-Fault litigation
Insurance Defense Litigation Overview
Insurance defense litigation involves representing carriers, insured parties, and self-insured entities in disputes arising under policy-based claims.
Litigation does not operate separately from claims handling. It directly impacts reserving, exposure analysis, and coverage strategy. Defense counsel must align legal execution with operational and financial objectives.
At the Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan, each insurance defense matter is handled with structure and discipline, including:
Early case assessment
Clear exposure evaluation
Strategic alignment with claims objectives
Trial-prepared execution
Our role as an insurance defense law firm is to manage risk and protect insured interests through disciplined reporting and measured litigation management.
Claims-Focused Defense Strategy
Effective insurance defense begins with a clear understanding of the claim and the policy considerations at issue.
As insurance carrier defense counsel, we evaluate liability exposure and establish a defined case posture at the outset. That early analysis supports reserving decisions and guides litigation strategy as the matter progresses.
Our coverage-focused defense strategy keeps legal execution aligned with policy interpretation and claims objectives throughout the dispute lifecycle.
Trial-Prepared Litigation Management
Each matter is approached with trial readiness. Even when resolution is expected through negotiation or mediation, preparation reflects the possibility of trial.
Our defense litigation strategy applies rigor across discovery, motion practice, expert coordination, and evidentiary development. This posture strengthens negotiation leverage and supports informed settlement decisions.
Managing Attorney Kristen Degnan brings nearly two decades of courtroom experience, including service as a former Assistant District Attorney. She has litigated matters through jury selection, trial, and verdict.
That experience shapes our insurance defense practice and provides carriers with counsel prepared to proceed when necessary.
Communication, Reporting, and Cost Discipline
Insurance defense demands disciplined communication and accountable case management. We provide structured reporting tailored to the needs of claims professionals and internal stakeholders.
Case updates are direct and analytical. They address exposure evaluation, procedural developments, and recommended strategic direction. Insurance defense reporting is delivered on schedule and in accordance with carrier guidelines.
Financial oversight is integrated into litigation management from the outset. Budgets are established early, monitored throughout the matter, and adjusted as circumstances evolve.
This framework supports insurance litigation cost control while maintaining disciplined case progression.
Insurance Coverage and Policy Disputes
Coverage questions often arise alongside liability defense. Disputes may involve exclusions, policy conditions, allocation issues, or scope of coverage.
Litigation strategy accounts for both the contractual framework and broader risk implications for the carrier. When appropriate, coordination with coverage counsel supports consistent positioning across related proceedings.
Complex Insurance Litigation Matters
Certain matters present significant exposure, multiple parties, or technical subject matter. These disputes require sustained oversight and defined coordination.
Experience includes complex insurance litigation involving layered policies, competing stakeholders, and parallel proceedings. Structured planning and disciplined case management guide these matters in high-stakes environments.
Defending Claims Alleging Improper Claims Handling
Carriers may face allegations of improper or unreasonable claims handling. These claims can expand exposure beyond the underlying dispute.
Insurer-aligned defense focuses on narrowing contested issues, addressing contractual or statutory allegations, and limiting unnecessary expansion of liability. Strategic clarity remains central throughout the proceedings.
Types of Insurance Defense Matters Handled
Representation includes a range of insurance defense matters, including:
- Liability-based defense litigation
- Coverage-driven disputes
- Defense of insured and self-insured entities
- Litigation, arbitration, and mediation proceedings
Each matter is managed according to exposure level, complexity, and procedural posture.
Insurance Defense Litigation Aligned with Claims Strategy
KBD LAW provides insurer-aligned defense counsel grounded in courtroom experience and disciplined case management.
The practice integrates:
- Claims coordination
- Coverage awareness
- Trial preparedness
- Structured reporting
- Measured case progression
Insurance defense litigation is executed with attention to operational alignment and long-term risk management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cases does the Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan handle?
The firm handles civil litigation, family and matrimonial law, criminal defense, estate planning, insurance defense litigation, real estate law, and workers’ compensation cases for clients in Buffalo and throughout New York State.
Where is the Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan located?
The office is located at 42 Delaware Avenue, Suite 700, Buffalo, New York 14202.
Do you serve clients outside of Buffalo, New York?
Yes. The firm provides dedicated legal representation to clients across all of New York State.
How much legal experience does Kristen Balbick Degnan have?
Kristen Balbick Degnan has nearly two decades of legal experience, including service as an Assistant District Attorney in Erie County and extensive private practice litigation experience.
What should I expect during an initial consultation?
During an initial consultation, you can expect a discussion of your legal issue, an overview of your options, and an explanation of how the firm may assist you moving forward.
Do you handle both litigation and non litigation matters?
Yes. The firm provides both litigation representation and non-litigation legal services such as estate planning and real estate transactions.
How can I contact the firm to schedule a consultation?
You can contact the office by phone at 716-318-5355 or by email at office@kbd.law.