Coverage Opinions
Clear Guidance in Complex Insurance Disputes
Insurance policies are dense, technical, and full of exclusions. When a claim arises, both policyholders and insurers may be unsure whether the policy actually provides coverage. That’s where a coverage opinion becomes essential—and where GPJ Legal can help.
We provide strategic, litigation-informed coverage analysis for businesses, individuals, and even insurance carriers navigating high-stakes liability or first-party claims. With more than 35 years of experience in insurance litigation, including deep experience representing both policyholders and insurers, we know how courts interpret policy language - and how to anticipate and resolve disputes before they escalate.
What Is a Coverage Opinion?
A coverage opinion is a formal legal analysis that evaluates whether a specific claim is covered under an insurance policy. It often addresses:
Whether the insuring agreement is triggered
Applicable exclusions or endorsements
Policyholder duties and notice provisions
Conflicts of law or multi-jurisdictional issues
Insurer’s duty to defend or indemnify
Coverage opinions are critical in a wide range of contexts—from pre-litigation evaluations to ongoing lawsuits, contractual disputes, or internal corporate risk analysis.
Who We Help
Policyholders unsure if their insurer is treating them fairly or applying exclusions appropriately
Businesses managing complex risk exposures and liability claims
Insurers seeking outside counsel for independent coverage analysis
Law firms needing co-counsel or trial-ready opinion letters for complex or disputed claims
Whether you’re facing a potential denial, preparing to challenge one, or proactively managing risk, our team can help you gain clarity—and prepare for what’s next.
When Coverage Opinions Make a Difference
Evaluating a carrier’s duty to defend in a pending lawsuit
Determining whether a claim falls within policy limits
Preparing for a declaratory judgment action
Assessing bad faith exposure for denial or delay
Avoiding internal conflicts between insureds and carriers
Resolving pre-litigation disputes with clear legal support
We don’t just summarize policies—we apply litigation-tested reasoning to help you make smart, informed decisions.
Why GPJ Legal for your Coverage Opinion Cases?
✔ Decades of Real-World Coverage Experience
We’ve handled coverage disputes in courtrooms across New Mexico. We know what arguments hold up—and which ones don’t.
✔ Insight into Both Policyholder and Insurer Needs
Our dual-sided experience means we understand what each side is looking for—and how to present coverage issues clearly and credibly.
✔ Trial-Ready When Needed, Strategic Always
When a coverage opinion is part of a larger dispute, we’re ready to pivot from analysis to advocacy—seamlessly and effectively.
What is a coverage opinion in insurance?
Coverage opinions are prepared by attorneys who specialize in insurance law. Insurers often request them when a claim is uncertain, while policyholders may seek their own review to confirm fairness. A well-written opinion protects both sides by clarifying how policy language applies to the situation.
Who usually prepares a coverage opinion?
Coverage opinions are prepared by attorneys who specialize in insurance law. Insurers often request them when a claim is uncertain, while policyholders may seek their own review to confirm fairness. A well-written opinion protects both sides by clarifying how policy language applies to the situation.
Can I get my own coverage opinion if I disagree with my insurance company?
Yes. You have the right to hire your own attorney to provide an independent opinion on coverage. At GPJ Legal, our attorneys review insurance policies, evaluate exclusions, and determine whether a denial or delay complies with New Mexico’s insurance laws.
Is a coverage opinion legally binding?
No. A coverage opinion is advisory, not a court decision. It guides insurers or policyholders but doesn’t determine the outcome of a claim. However, courts often consider it as evidence when reviewing whether an insurer acted reasonably or in bad faith.
Why are coverage opinions important in New Mexico insurance disputes?
Coverage opinions help prevent disputes by clearly defining responsibilities before a lawsuit arises. They can also reveal when an insurer may be interpreting a policy too narrowly, which could form the basis of a bad faith claim if the opinion is used to deny valid coverage.
What if the coverage opinion used to deny my claim is wrong?
If an insurer relies on an inaccurate or biased opinion, you may have grounds to challenge that decision. An experienced insurance attorney can review the opinion and help you pursue payment, reimbursement, or bad faith damages for the wrongful denial.
Can coverage opinions be used as evidence in court?
Usually, they’re confidential between the insurer and its attorney. But if the insurer uses the opinion to justify a denial, it can lose that privilege, allowing the opinion to be examined in court. GPJ Legal often reviews such cases to uncover whether insurers acted fairly.
How do coverage opinions protect policyholders?
Accurate opinions help ensure that coverage decisions are based on facts and contract language, not company preference. When written properly, they provide transparency and can prevent unnecessary litigation between policyholders and insurers.
When should I ask for a coverage opinion?
Ask for one whenever your insurer questions coverage or delays a decision. Having the issue reviewed early prevents costly misunderstandings later.
Where can I get help reviewing a coverage opinion?
If you’ve received a coverage opinion that seems unclear or unfair, contact GPJ Legal. Our New Mexico attorneys can analyze the opinion, explain your options, and help protect your right to coverage.
