David Johnson—FOIL

The Forum of Insurance Lawyers (FOIL) has elected large loss litigation specialist David Johnson as its new President.

David, a partner with Weightmans LLP, takes over from Rod Evans. His election comes at a time of continuing upheaval and change in the insurance sector, particularly in the personal injury arena where the government is driving major reforms to stem a rising tide of claims and achieve better value for consumers.

David has been a member of FOIL throughout his legal career from his early days as a trainee solicitor in 1999 at A.E Wyeth & Co.

David says: ”We have a busy year ahead. Lawyers and the judiciary are still feeling their way around the Jackson reforms encountering issues with elements such as costs budgeting and relief from sanctions. Justice Ramsey’s Review will touch on some issues. Hopefully, as there is more case law we can iron out the inconsistencies and uncertainty there has seen so far.  

“FOIL will be forthright in presenting the defendant insurer lawyer perspective but I’m keen to make the most of opportunities to work with organisations such as APIL and MASS to collaborate where possible to achieve sensible and effective reform.”