We Are Schaffer & Associates
Schaffer & Associates is an insurance defense firm that understands the litigation needs of the insurance industry and its insureds.
Who We Are
Schaffer & Associates traces its history to 1999 when Leonard Frischer formed the firm as Frischer & Associates. Mr. Frischer’s goal was to provide a personal level of service to a sophisticated and litigation-savvy base of clients. Providing a high level of service and a high level of knowledge and skill in the litigation process has continued to be the firm’s goal. The firm endeavors to do so in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Since 1999, the firm has grown but continues to maintain its small firm heritage of excellent service delivered with exceptional experience and knowledge.
The firm practices in all venues in Kansas and Missouri, including all federal courts and courts of appeal. Its attorneys have successfully tried cases to verdict in every county in the Kansas City metropolitan area and numerous surrounding venues, both urban and rural. The firm has obtained defense verdicts in cases ranging from wrongful death cases to soft tissue automobile accidents to complex insurance coverage disputes. The firm serves both large and small insurers and develops close working relationships with claims teams and legal departments throughout the country.
Our attorneys and staff are committed to obtaining the best result possible. If you require representation in matters related to the insurance industry or civil litigation, please contact us.
How We Work
1The firm carefully evaluates every claim at the outset to develop a litigation plan that best fits the needs and goals of the case. All pertinent facts are obtained and any areas requiring legal analysis are identified. A litigation plan is prepared along with an appropriate budget that will serve as the guide to managing the case. When handling third party liability claims, the firm meets with every insured shortly after receipt of the assignment to explain the litigation process and what is expected during the course of the lawsuit. Every insured is treated with respect and their concerns are fully addressed throughout the process.
2The firm puts its litigation plan into action, aggressively pursuing discovery and any further investigation as the facts may dictate. The firm finalizes its evaluation of all liability and damages issues and identifies the resources and people necessary for trial. When appropriate, the firm draws on a network of expert witnesses ranging from medical experts to accident reconstructionists to technical specialists.
3The firm determines whether the case is appropriate for alternative dispute resolution, and if so, carefully chooses the right mediator for the job. Mediation often serves as the primary forum for presentation of defenses and of weaknesses in the opponent’s case, and the firm prepares for mediation with that viewpoint. If the case cannot be settled informally or through alternative dispute resolution procedures, the case is tailored for trial to obtain the best possible result for the client.