Would-be Katrina judge sues insurer for claim denial

By William Murphy

Published on April 21, 2006

Nationwide representative Joe Case declined to discuss details of the suit. Case did, however, cite last week's ruling by U.S. District Judge L.T. Senter that language in Allstate Corporation policies excluding damages from Katrina flooding was "valid and enforceable." The decision, according to Case, could prove favorable to Nationwide.

Guirola was to have heard cases against insurance companies brought by policy holders whose properties suffered damages from Hurricane Katrina; however, citing conflict-of-interest concerns, Judge Guirola removed himself from all Katrina cases weeks ago.

The Guirolas are represented by Attorney Richard Scruggs, who also represents Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.) and Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.). Both Lott, who is brother-in-law to Scruggs, and Taylor have sued their insurers for refusal to cover Katrina-caused damage.

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