Wood Smith Henning & Berman partner Graham Miller, will share insights on the growing impact of social inflation and litigation finance during a featured presentation at the 2026 CLM Construction Conference.
Miller will present "Social Inflation and Litigation Finance: Defense Strategies for Today's Claims Environment" during session three on September 24, at 2:30 p.m. He will be joined by fellow thought leaders Meliz Martin of Lydecker LLP and Michael Sprumont of Nationwide Insurance Company.
As nuclear verdicts, changing jury expectations, and expanded litigation funding continue to reshape the claims landscape, the session will examine how these trends influence litigation strategy, settlement negotiations, and trial outcomes in construction matters. Attendees will gain practical insights into proactive defense approaches that help clients manage escalating litigation risks while adapting to today's increasingly complex claims environment.
"Defense strategies must continue to evolve alongside the changing forces influencing today's litigation," said Graham. "I look forward to discussing practical techniques that help insurers, claims professionals, and defense counsel anticipate emerging risks, evaluate exposure, and develop litigation strategies that position cases for the best possible outcome."
The Claims and Litigation Management (CLM) Construction Conference will take place September 23-25, 2026, at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas. Dedicated exclusively to construction claims, insurance, and risk management, the conference offers three days of educational programming, professional development, and networking opportunities for mid- to senior-level claims and litigation professionals. The agenda features roundtable discussions, panel presentations, and expert-led sessions addressing the latest developments affecting the construction industry.
"Graham has a deep understanding of the legal and market forces driving today's construction litigation," said Founding Partner Stephen Henning. "His experience helping clients navigate complex, high-exposure claims makes him exceptionally well qualified to address the growing impact of social inflation and litigation finance on defense strategy."
As Managing Partner of WSHB’s Portland office and a Partner in the firm’s Ontario office, Graham Miller delivers seasoned trial and litigation counsel to clients across a diverse array of industries. His expertise encompasses complex commercial, business, and financial disputes, as well as professional liability, employment, catastrophic injury, transportation, railroad, and construction litigation. Graham is particularly noted for his extensive representation of public entities in high-stakes matters. Known for his command of every phase of the litigation process, he consistently achieves favorable outcomes for clients at depositions, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.
Wood Smith Henning & Berman: Your Trusted Partner
Experience the power of a proven industry leader in the law. Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is renowned globally for our exceptional trial results and expertise in handling complex litigation. With our nationwide network of over 500 lawyers across 43 office locations, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive litigation and counsel to both public and private companies. From start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations, we deliver unrivaled legal representation that consistently achieves favorable outcomes for our clients.
At WSHB, our strength lies in our diverse and accomplished team of attorneys. We boast thought leaders and defense specialists in over 41 fields of practice, covering an extensive range of specialties. Founded in 1997, we are proud to be among the top ten law firms in the nation for diversity, female partners, female lawyers, and Hispanic lawyers. This rich tapestry of diversity forms the foundation of our success when presenting cases to juries of our peers, ensuring we understand the unique nuances underlying each claim.
Our expansive geographic footprint allows us to provide effective and efficient representation to clients nationwide, regardless of their location, background, or legal expertise. By prioritizing strategic and cost-effective approaches to litigation, our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. We have a track record of success, securing numerous victories such as summary judgments and defense verdicts on behalf of our clients. As a trial firm, we have taken over 2,000 cases to verdict, making us well-equipped to handle even the most complex and high-stakes litigation matters across the country.
