Insurance
Jun. 23, 2026
9th Circuit confirms use of extrinsic evidence in interpreting insurance policies
Insurance coverage disputes always start with questions about the interpretation of insurance policies. But despite decades of court decisions explaining the governing principles, differences persist over a key question: whether and when extrinsic evidence can be considered in interpreting policy language.
Kirk A. Pasich
Partner and Co-Leader of the Insurance Recovery Group
McGuireWoods LLP
Phone: (310) 956-3462
Email: kpasich@mcguirewoods.com
Loyola Law School
Insurance coverage disputes always start with questions about the interpretation of insurance policies. Despite decades of court decisions explaining the governing principles, differences persist in how to approach interpretation. One key question is whether and when extrinsic evidence can be considered.
The California Supreme Court addressed this issue nearly 60 years ago, saying, "A rule that would limit the determination of the meaning...
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