John Celeste's practice primarily involves defending manufacturers and financial institutions in a variety of litigation matters. He has experience representing manufacturers in products liability and mass tort litigation involving multiple parties and multiple claims, including claims alleging occupational exposures to asbestos, silica, and other allegedly hazardous substances. John's representation of these clients frequently involves reconstructing and analyzing complex corporate histories, and the consequent liabilities, which often date back to the 19th century. He also has experience representing financial institutions in all levels of consumer credit card disputes. In addition to his litigation experience, John routinely represents clients in regulatory matters before the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
John's practice also includes the representation of policyholders (including a number of large publicly traded and privately held companies) in insurance coverage and/or insurance-related disputes arising out of a variety of insurance policies. On behalf of these clients, John has conducted forensic insurance coverage investigations to locate coverage under policies issued many years ago.
Prior to joining Miles & Stockbridge, John served as a law clerk to the Honorable Alexander Harvey, II of the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.
Credentials
Maryland Super Lawyers® - Rising Stars Edition: Selected for inclusion in the area of Insurance Coverage (2010-2011)
Publications
"Dealing With Defamatory Complaints In CPSC Database," Law360 (Co-Author) (December 22, 2011).
"The Right To Reimbursement Of Defense Costs?" Law360 (Co-Authored) (August 12, 2009).
"A Line in the Dust: Courts Refuse to Extend a Manufacturer's Duty to Warn," American Bar Association, Section of Litigation Newsletter (Volume 7, Number 3) (Co-Author) (Summer 2009).
"Defending Against Risks of Importing From China," Law360 (January 28, 2009).
"Not Thy Brother's Keeper: Who's Duty is it?" For The Defense (October 2005).
"Are your Chinese Suppliers Adequately Insured?" The Gazette of Politics & Business, Legal Review (2008).
"Forensic Coverage Investigations: Finding Coverage in 'Old' Policies," DRI: Industrywide Liability News (2003).
Speaking Engagements
"Practical Advice for Navigating the CPSC Internet Database," Online Webinar (Panelists) (March 29, 2012).
"D&O Coverage: Tailoring Coverage for the Risks that Matter to You," Risk and Insurance Management Society, Inc., Chesapeake Chapter (October 2010).