Regina Rodriguez Named 2011 "Top Women Lawyers" by Law Week Colorado

Faegre & Benson, a leading international law firm with offices in Denver and Boulder, is pleased to announce that Regina M. (Gina) Rodriguez has been named to the 2011 list of "Top Women Lawyers" by Law Week Colorado. Ms. Rodriguez, a partner in the Denver office of Faegre & Benson, is an experienced trial lawyer and a member of the International Association of Defense Counsel.

"Gina is undoubtedly a fantastic lawyer, who has earned the trust and respect of her colleagues and clients," said Meshach Rhoades, corporate counsel at CenturyLink, who nominated Ms. Rodriguez for the award. "Beyond that, Gina is a proven community leader. Her excellent communication and critical thinking skills that serve her so well in the courtroom are equally effective in the community. She has earned her seat at the proverbial table through tenacity, hard work, and superb lawyering, and now she has laid the groundwork for many others to do the same, which makes her one of the best."

Ms. Rodriguez is a distinguished trial lawyer with 23 years of experience and 30 trials to her credit. Her record of work includes representing pharmaceutical manufacturers in defense of product liability claims, a major vaccine manufacturer in defense of product liability claims, and an international agribusiness client in a four-month jury trial. Prior to joining Faegre & Benson, Ms. Rodriguez served as the chief of the Civil Division in the office of the U.S. Attorney in the District of Colorado and was the only woman on the management team.

Ms. Rodriguez is also very active in pro bono and charitable causes, especially those that work with disadvantaged young people to ensure that they have a strong foundation to succeed. She is a founding member of Colorado Youth at Risk, served as a board member at Open Door and Family Star Montessori, and offers volunteer legal counsel at the Denver Ballet Guild. She also was appointed by former Gov. Bill Ritter to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.

"Gina has an incredible record of success as a litigator, and clients in the medical drug and device industries across the country seek her out for her deep expertise," said Linda Rockwood, executive partner in the Denver office of Faegre & Benson. "Just as impressive is Gina's commitment to her community. She has been a tireless advocate for women and minorities, who have been significantly underrepresented in the legal system, as well as for disadvantaged minorities in Colorado communities."