Judge Bruce White threw Depp’s attorney Adam Waldman off the case on Friday, after hearing that the attorney had leaked confidential information. Waldman was admitted pro hac vice — for this case only — to Fairfax County Circuit Court in September 2019. That means the Waldman, who practices in Washington, was given permission to represent Johnny in Virginia.
That same month, Judge White signed a protective order governing the treatment of Depp and Heard’s personal information — passport numbers, phone numbers and the like, as well as medical records, including psychological conditions, diagnoses or treatment.
Heard had moved for sanctions against the Washington attorney last month, contending that the press leaks happened “on at least two occasions.”
She said Waldman was responsible for disseminating audio recordings, surveillance pictures and declarations from third-party witnesses to websites and Twitter users.
In court on Friday, Heard’s lawyers accused Waldman of spreading false rumors about their client.
White, who is chief judge of the 19th Circuit, agreed Friday to revoke Waldman’s pro hac vice status. Despite finding that ethical standards were violated, the judge declined to issue a gag order against Waldman.
While it’s easy to see this as a defeat, it’s not. Not at all. Johnny has be represented by Virginia lawyer Benjamin Chew throughout these proceedings thus far, and he’ll continue to do a fine job. After all, whoever presents them, the facts are still the facts, and Amber Heard is still sunk by them. She can’t get everybody fired.
Besides, now that Adam Waldman isn’t constrained by the orders of the case anymore, he can say and do whatever he wants. The judge didn’t issue a gag order remember, and Waldman knows EVERYTHING about the case. While I’m sure he wouldn’t do anything to hurt Johnny – he’s still Johnny’s lawyer – he’s now free to talk about any little thing.
Heard may see this as a victory, but the truth is that she may have shot herself in the food on this one. Waldman’s free to talk, now, and I for one can’t wait to see what he’s got to say.