Crop Insurance Arbitration & Litigation

Few attorneys understand crop insurance. Fewer still have the necessary background or experience to successfully represent you in a crop insurance dispute. Because it is federally subsidized, crop insurance is distinctly different from other types of insurance. Disputes often involve administrative actions by USDA's Risk Management Agency (RMA). They can also result from compliance determinations by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). At the very minimum, crop insurance arbitration and litigation will involve a host of federal regulations that are inapplicable to other types of insurance and completely foreign to most attorneys.

As a practicing attorney, I have been involved in crop insurance disputes throughout the country. I have an enviable record at arbitration in diverse jurisdictions and routinely function as a consultant to local counsels in crop insurance related litigation. I know how, when and where to challenge an agency or reinsured company action or determination. Crop insurance constitutes a significant portion of my practice. I am confident that you cannot find a plaintiff's attorney who understands crop insurance better than I do or who has a better chance of prevailing against RMA or any signatories to the FCIC's Standard Reinsurance Agreement.

FSA Payment Limitations

Farm program payments are essential to an operation's profitability. You cannot leave money on the table and expect to remain competitive. Reorganization and its attendant paperwork are necessary for economic survival. The federal payment limitation regulations are confusing and the consequences for non-compliance can be devastating. Producers are ill-advised to try to reorganize themselves or to rely on an inexperienced attorney.

I provide turnkey services for my payment limitation clients. Reorganization can have significant tax consequences and I insist that your accountant be involved throughout. I prepare whatever instruments and documents may be necessary to the reorganization, including all forms required by FSA.

Administrative Appeals

Production agriculture is subject to an ever-increasing regulatory burden from local, state and federal agencies. Government agencies make numerous determinations each year which may adversely affect farm and ranch operations. These determinations range in scope from eligibility to compliance. My primary focus is on USDA agency appeals, however, I also handle actions involving the Corps of Engineers and other federal and state permitting authorities.

Other Practice Areas

In addition to the primary areas, I also represents clients in matters involving:

Packers and Stockyard Act Violations;
Perishable Agriculture Commodities Act;
New Generation and Traditional Farmer Cooperatives.