DUSTIN CHO | Age: 37 Partner

Covington & Burling LLP

Washington, D.C.

Dustin Cho represents policyholders in insurance coverage disputes that often appear ripped from the headlines: an alleged Russian cyberattack that insurers unsuccessfully argued met the bar for a war exclusion; concussion claims by former National Football League players; and the seemingly ever-present COVID-19 business interruption litigation still winding through the courts.

What’s your advice on navigating the current insurance market?

Policyholders consult with me on wording issues when they’re placing or renewing insurance. More policyholders should pay more attention to things like that. Obviously, brokers can and should help policyholders, but lawyers are focused mostly on the claims end, and wording matters where the rubber hits the road on some of these claims. Lawyers can help policyholders get the wording right and negotiate for clarifications where it’s possible and appropriate.

How are technological advances affecting your job?

The biggest impact has been for me video hearings and meetings and depositions. Everything can be done much more easily by video.

What’s a problem that needs fixing in your sector?

Too many insurers too often won’t pay covered claims — in particular if it’s a big loss. There just aren’t sufficient deterrents to discourage an insurer from dragging its feet or trying to find ways to deny a claim when it’s just a big claim. That shouldn’t be a basis for denying a claim.

Favorite hobby or pastime?

I’ve got a 3-year-old son, so there’s little time for other stuff. But my pastime now is something I still love and get to do: playing with Legos with my son. We build a lot of things.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a cowboy. Obviously, that didn’t pan out.