Sensient Colors Inc., Plaintiff-Respondent v. Allstate Insurance Company, F/K/A Northbrook Insurance Company…

Summary

The Supreme Court of New Jersey affirmed the Appellate Division's decision reinstating Sensient Colors' New Jersey declaratory‑judgment action. The Court held that, despite the first‑filed doctrine, New Jersey may retain jurisdiction because special equities—particularly the state's dominant interest in environmental remediation—override the presumption in favor of the earlier‑filed New York action.