The sphere of defamation law is set to have its landscape altered with the breaking news that partners Clare Locke, who were instrumental in securing the $787 million settlement in the Fox News-Dominion case, are setting up their own defamation boutique.
This shift comes at a time when the market for defamation lawyers is growing. The recent Fox News-Dominion lawsuit, which cost the major cable network almost a billion dollars to settle due to false election claims, demonstrates how high the stakes are becoming in this arena. Popular political figure, Donald Trump, currently holds a 37-point lead over the rest of the GOP field, hinting at the possibility of future media network lawsuits in the 2024 elections.
The spearheading legal force behind the Fox News settlement, Clare Locke, has experienced a spinoff with key partners branching out and focusing on their initiative to counter misinformation and its resultant harm.
Megan L. Meier, Daniel P. Watkins, Andy Phillips, and Dustin Pusch, launched their new firm, Meier Watkins Phillips Pusch LLP, earlier today in Washington, D.C., with the expressed intent to litigate high-profile defamation cases.
With a reputed history in the field of defamation, Daniel P. Watkins elaborates on their mission in this new endeavor: “Our mission is to help clients navigate crises and deliver justice for the falsely accused”, he said.
The partners boast an impressive resume, having handled some of the most influential defamation settlements and verdicts in American history. Their clientele ranges from tech companies, Fortune 100 Companies, to celebrities, elected officials, and private equity funds. The new firm has identified the crucial role of working alongside top-tier crisis PR firms and in-house counsel to secure accurate media coverage for its clients. Their work with Dominion exemplifies their potential in that regard.
Looking ahead, the team has a rich track record, having worked with tech firms, professional sports teams and celebrities. Meier represented Yuga Labs in a trademark dispute while Watkins is spearheading a $900 million litigation against McDonald’s.
A noteworthy mention is Andy Phillips’ recent ruling win, declaring that journalist privilege cannot shield a Fox News reporter from testifying about FBI sources.
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