Ernest Martin focuses his practice exclusively in the areas of complex insurance coverage litigation and consultation on behalf of corporate policyholders. He uses his vast experience handling insurance coverage matters, knowledge of key insurance principles, insight into how insurance companies operate, and understanding of his client’s business objectives to maximize insurance recoveries from insurance companies.
Ernest has represented private and public entities in coverage disputes before state and federal courts in Texas and across the nation. He has handled litigation and arbitration for coverage disputes involving directors and officers' liability claims, construction disputes, environmental claims, securities claims, property damage and business interruption claims, general liability claims, and bad faith claims. Additionally, he consults with clients on matters of clients' insurance coverage including the purchase and renewal of policies, as well as leveraging coverage in the defense and settlement of claims.
Ernest, the Co-Founder of the State Bar of Texas Insurance Section, has been widely recognized by his legal industry peers and corporate clients. Best Lawyers' 2012 named him the Dallas Insurance Law Lawyer of the Year. Mark Chloupek of La Quinta Inns says, "Ernest Martin of Haynes and Boone has provided phenomenal representation for various affiliate entities. His expertise during complex insurance litigation combined with his strong business sense has enabled us to successfully prevail on numerous occasions. I would highly recommend him!" (Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms" Directory, 2010) Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business 2010 said "Ernest Martin (Band 1) is described by clients as 'probably one of the top coverage counsel in the country.' He knows the area inside-out and is a creative thinker with outstanding negotiation skills."
A frequent speaker at state and national insurance seminars, Ernest has held leadership positions in insurance legal associations and served as an adjunct insurance law professor for approximately ten years. He serves as head of the Insurance Coverage Litigation Practice Group, served as a member of the firm's managing Board of Directors, and is the current Administrative Partner for the Dallas office.
