Johnny Depp lawyer promoted in wake of trial success

Camille Vasquez

Camille Vasquez, who gained something of a fanbase due to her highly visible role in a sensationalised trial watched by millions around the world, has been elevated to partner at Brown Rudnick LLP.

A jury in Fairfax County, Virginia awarded around $10.4 million in damages to Mr Depp after finding that he was defamed on three counts by Ms Heard in a 2018 newspaper article in which she described herself as a survivor of domestic abuse but did not refer to her ex-husband by name.

The jury also awarded $2 million to Ms Heard after upholding one part of her counter-suit regarding a claim by another of Mr Depp’s lawyers that one of her allegations amounted to a “hoax”.

The verdict stood in sharp contrast with an earlier libel trial in London, in which a High Court judge sided with a major British newspaper by finding that there was enough evidence in 12 of 14 incidents in which Mr Depp was alleged to have been violent to Ms Heard to meet the civil standard of proof.

Ms Vasquez joined Brown Rudnick’s Orange County office in 2018 as an associate in the litigation and arbitration practice. She has more than 10 years’ experience as a trial lawyer in high-stakes disputes, including defamation cases, contract disputes, business-related torts and employment-related claims.

William Baldiga, chairman and CEO of Brown Rudnick, said: “We are delighted to welcome Camille to the partnership. Historically, we have reserved this announcement for the end of our fiscal year.

“But Camille’s performance during the Johnny Depp trial proved to the world that she was ready to take this next step now. We are incredibly proud of her and look forward to what she will accomplish as our newest partner.”

Ms Vasquez added: “I am delighted that Brown Rudnick has given me its full vote of confidence by having me join the partnership. I’m proud of the uniquely talented team I’ve had the privilege to lead, which exemplified teamwork and collaboration, and I look forward to continuing to represent Brown Rudnick’s culture of excellence.”