Hans W. Herb is “of counsel” to Berger Kahn. He is admitted to practice law in the States of Arizona (1989), California (1988), and Washington (1990) as well as the associated Federal District Courts, and the 9^th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Hans has worked his entire career handling complex commercial litigation matters. He has been regularly associated in complex litigation matters, for both plaintiffs and defendants. He previously worked for three major national law firms and has also worked in several “General Counsel” roles. In the waste industry he served for more than 20 years as the initial General Counsel for a highly successful Northern California liquid and solid waste firm.

Hans worked in the petroleum industry for decades, becoming a major advocate for underground storage tank owners, and other environmental “responsible parties.”  The work by him, and the several non-profit groups he cofounded, altered the legal landscape, and helped his clients and the environment benefit from his creative thinking, hard work, and his tireless advocacy.

In the construction arena Hans was the architect of the use of “statutes of repose” to preclude contractors, and others, being liable for past environmental claims.  His actions resulted in several reported decisions, including precedential decisions of the California Supreme Court. He has been involved in many complex construction disputes including several disputes involving over $100M in claims.

Having worked for major insurance companies dealing with large loss-claims, such as environmental, asbestos and fire claims early in his career, he has an excellent understanding of complex insurance coverage matters. His work on “Highly Protected Risk” subrogation matters resulted in substantial results for two of the largest specialty risk insurers in the world IRI and FM.

Hans grew up in Minnesota, served twice in the USMC between 1973 and 1985, previously served as the owner of Universal Ventures Inc. and Northwest Security Services of Montana, later graduated from UC Law San Francisco (Formerly UC Hastings), and was a law clerk at the San Francisco Superior Court Law and Motion Department. He has been a licensed private investigator since 1979.

Hans spends much of his time staying current with his areas of practice and helping/advising others on complex litigation matters. He believes in treating others with respect, courtesy, and civility while always protecting his clients’ rights.