Sheppard Mullin Partner Is Running Circles Around Quinn Emanuel

Sheppard Mullin partner Moe Keshavarzi has been remarkably successful in challenging fees sought by Quinn Emanuel from health insurers following a $12 billion win in a case against the federal government. Keshavarzi represents a group of insurers, including Kaiser Permanente and UnitedHealth, who argue Quinn Emanuel initially sought a lower fee than what was ultimately awarded. He has already secured a reduction in Quinn Emanuel’s fees by half, along with $10 million in interest, and now seeks $1.6 million in fees for his firm’s work in clawing back the funds.

The dispute highlights the tensions inherent in class action lawsuits regarding legal fees and client dissatisfaction. Quinn Emanuel has characterized Sheppard Mullin’s actions as “extortionate,” alleging a threat to not challenge a different fee request in exchange for payment. However, Sheppard Mullin maintains that the expenses incurred were a direct result of Quinn Emanuel’s initial promises and subsequent actions.

This case showcases Sheppard Mullin’s growing strength in healthcare litigation and its willingness to challenge even the most prominent firms. While it is unusual for objector’s counsel to seek fees directly from class counsel, the fact that the objecting insurers represent 43% of the class gives their request significant weight, leaving the final decision in the hands of the court.

(Source：Bloomberg Tax News)