Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) is facing a multimillion-pound negligence claim relating to its involvement in a £60m case brought by Standard Life.

The firm has found itself linked to a dispute after the High Court ruled earlier this month (13 February) that Standard Life Assurance could not recover damages from its insurers – Oak Dedicated – but could claim against its insurance broker Aon.

Aon brought its own negligence claim against RPC as a third party to the proceedings before the ruling was passed and a second trial will now take place to decide whether or not the firm was negligent and, if so, how much the firm and Aon are liable for.

The next stage of the trial has been postponed after the judge gave permission to appeal the February ruling and now looks likely to take place next year.

The original case saw Standard Life suing Oak Dedicated and Aon when it was unable to claim back on its indemnity insurance, despite paying out on a number of liabilities arising from the mis-selling of mortgage endowment policies.

The judge found the insurers were not liable, as the policy – which was intended to pay out £75m with an excess of £25m – did not allow for the claims to be aggregated together, meaning the excess limit could not be reached.

Aon's claim against RPC argues that the firm did not recognise that the wording of the policy meant claims could not be grouped together.

RPC has turned to Herbert Smith with Hailsham Chambers' Derek Holwill instructed as counsel. Holman Fenwick & Willan insurance and reinsurance partner Andrew Bandurka has been leading the team advising Aon while Kennedys has been instructed to advise Oak Dedicated.

Ince & Co professional indemnity partner Andrew Ottley is advising Standard Life with Brick Court Chambers George Leggatt QC instructed as counsel.

RPC told Legal Week it is defending the claim.