Overview
Through years of representing a diverse clientele, ranging from small business entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies, Danessa appreciates that legal representation is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. She dedicates time to understanding her clients’ long- and short-term goals. She then analyzes and explains the options available to her clients before making a recommendation on how to best proceed. Danessa’s professional success is a direct result of her ability to add a personalized touch to her client advocacy.
As a member of the firm’s Business Litigation Service Group, Danessa defends clients in matters relating to business disputes, computer fraud, products liability, breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, and tortious interference. Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, she recognizes how disruptive a legal battle can be to daily life and business operations. Danessa is effective in securing swift resolutions for her clients through her meticulous motion writing and creativity in negotiating settlements.
As a member of the Entertainment & Media Service Group, Danessa represents the free speech rights and reputational interests of media clients, businesses and individuals. The continuous advancements in technology and global access present unique challenges for journalists and news outlets in presenting accurate information and protecting their sources. Danessa stays current on the ever-evolving area of First Amendment law and defends the media against libel suits and intrusive subpoenas. The niche areas of defamation, false light and right to privacy also present unique challenges for companies and individuals looking to promote and protect their products, services and image. Danessa counsels clients on how to minimize risk in their publications and advertising. When litigation does arise, her clients value her thorough evaluation of potential exposure and tenacity in defending their reputational interests.
When she is not in the office, Danessa enjoys traveling, hiking and exploring Chicago’s restaurant scene. She participates in the annual Le Tour de Shore 100 mile charity bike race that starts in Chicago and ends in New Buffalo, Michigan. She is also actively involved in local organizations that foster the collaboration and advancement of women business owners.
Experience
Membership & Involvement
- Member: Chicago Bar Association; Women’s Bar Association of Illinois; ABA Forum on Communications Law
Honors
- Selected to Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America in Commercial Litigation: 2024
Resources & Insights
Speaking Engagements
Podcasts
In this episode of Litigation Nation, co-hosts Danessa Watkins and Jack Sanker dive into two significant legal stories that highlight the intersection of technology, ethics, and the law. Join us as we unpack these complex issues and their far-reaching consequences in today's society.
In this episode of Litigation Nation, co-hosts Jack Sanker and Danessa Watkins dive into two significant legal developments. Join us as we unpack these intriguing legal battles and explore the implications for both Netflix and TikTok in the ever-evolving landscape of media and technology.
Litigation Nation hosts Jack Sanker and Danessa Watkins dive into the recent landmark verdict finding Trump guilty of 34 charges of falsifying business records. They also explore the nuances of the case, including the jury's decision, sentencing considerations, and the possibility of Trump running for president despite the conviction. Join our discussion on the legal implications, potential appeals, and the impact on the political landscape in the comments below.
In this episode, we discuss the widespread contamination of "forever chemicals" detailed in a bombshell expose by ProPublica and The New Yorker and the legal troubles faced by OpenAI, including allegations of using Scarlett Johansson's voice in their AI assistant technology and copyright infringement claims from authors like George R.R. Martin.
Tune in to Litigation Nation for insightful discussions on the latest legal issues and updates across the nation. Subscribe to get the latest episodes, and stay informed with the ever-changing legal landscape.
Data Privacy Attorney, John Ochoa, joins the show to discuss a recent lawsuit of a beverage giant under Illinois Genetic Privacy Law, and a Texas judge says drag shows aren’t always protected by First Amendment, citing the “history and tradition” test, as the legal standard for his ruling.
In this episode of Litigation Nation, we covered three significant legal developments. We discuss a case in New York where a woman was awarded $30 million in a revenge porn lawsuit against her ex-boyfriend, a cyber attack in Fulton County, Georgia, where hackers threatened to release sensitive court documents related to the Trump election case, and explore a U.S. Supreme Court decision regarding the removal of presidential candidates from state ballots.
Parents of Michigan school shooter both sentenced to 10-15 years for involuntary manslaughter in a historic sentencing.
California consumers have filed a class action lawsuit against luxury fashion brand Hermès over purchasing practices for the brand’s exclusive Birkin bag.
Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court rules adults younger than 21 cannot be sentenced to mandatory life without parole, New York judge rejects law firm fee petition for using ChatGPT to justify its costs, and Silicon Valley battles states over new online privacy & safety laws for children.
Firm News
- Subscribe to Amundsen Davis's Litigation Nation Podcast for the latest legal updates!
Subscribe to Amundsen Davis's Litigation Nation Podcast for the latest legal updates!Litigation Nation, a brand new Amundsen Davis podcast with hosts Jack Sanker and Danessa Watkins, is a weekly roundup of the most important and interesting legal developments you missed. New episodes release bi-weekly on Tuesday, summarizing the newsletters you don't have time to read and diving into the headlines to bring you what you need to know.
- 84 Amundsen Davis Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers® in 2024 in America
84 Amundsen Davis Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers® in 2024 in AmericaWe are extremely excited to congratulate 84 of our attorneys on being recognized by Best Lawyers® in 2024 in America.
- Protecting Your Business in the Wake of Bad “Press” and Negative Social MediaProtecting Your Business in the Wake of Bad “Press” and Negative Social Media
Join Heather Bailey and Danessa Watkins as they present the webcast, "Protecting Your Business in the Wake of Bad “Press” and Negative Social Media," hosted by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce.
- Defamation Nation: Taking the Pain out of Campaigning
Defamation Nation: Taking the Pain out of CampaigningJoin Danessa Watkins and Ryan Jacobson for this in-person and live webcast event, "Running for Public Office: Keys to Success" hosted by the Chicago Bar Association where they present, "Defamation Nation: Taking the Pain out of Campaigning."
Education
Boston University School of Law, J.D., 2013
Northeastern University, B.S., 2010
Admissions
- Illinois
- Massachusetts