She is the divorce attorney for the world’s rich and famous. From Kim Kardashian to Britney Spears to Angelina Jolie, American Laura Wasser has signed the covenants, alimony and custody rights for the entire divorced Hollywood jet set. The last one standing? None other than Johnny Depp… We caught up with her to talk about her very special profession.
Updated yesterday at 7:00am.
The Los Angeles attorney who receives us this Wednesday evening in her suite at the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, barely landed in town (she’s in transit to hold a conference at the C2 Montreal this Thursday morning) is an adept conversationalist , we did Don’t expect less. She defends her client. And she doesn’t move.
“I know the facts,” she repeats. I do not close my eyes to domestic violence. But I don’t condone unfounded claims either. Because that’s what really hurts women. »
Note that the one the tabloids dubbed “Disso Queen” as “Queen of the Breakup,” a title that makes her wince (“I’m not the queen of divorces!” she defends herself, laughing), portrayed Johnny Depp his divorce from Amber Heard, a case resolved within “two months”.
Nor was Laura Wasser involved in the very poorly-publicized libel lawsuit that followed (Amber Heard accused Johnny Depp of domestic violence, who denies it), a lawsuit whose verdict, favorable to Johnny Depp, was heard on appeal before both parties finally came to an agreement, previously confidential.
Disturbingly gently, America’s most prominent attorney, who has been in the divorce industry for nearly 30 years, answers all of our questions without flinching.
Feminist, Laura Wasser? Definitely, says our chic, all-black interviewer, who is said to be one of the best-dressed lawyers in the United States, shaking her head. “And if, say hypothetically, false allegations are made in an abuse and domestic violence case, it not only ruins a reputation but also takes away valuable time in court for other people who are actual victims.”
Laura Wasser also states that in her practice she has the luxury of being able to turn down clients she doesn’t believe in. Which wasn’t the case with Johnny Depp, we get it. “I turn down clients who may be perpetrators or others who refuse in principle to share custody of their children,” she says. For what ? “I don’t take on cases that can’t be resolved. »
Also, does she ever lose? ” But of course ! ”
PHOTO DOMINICK GRAVEL, THE PRESS
Laura Wasser, Divorce Attorney
You know, in family law, everyone loses…
Laura Wasser, Divorce Attorney
Nevertheless. She is said to have inspired the character of Laura Dern in Noah Baumbach’s very apt 2019 Marriage Story. However, several scenes in the film were actually shot in their California offices, even though she had Laura Dern as a client (as did Noah Baumbach’s ex-wife, Jennifer Jason Leigh, by the way), Laura Wasser believes she more closely resembles the character of Alan Alda in real life (the down-to-earth old lawyer, remember!). “You’re not doing anyone any favors by being aggressive or playing shark,” she believes. You must be calm and rational. »
She certainly sees all colors, so much so that the attorney we owe a book (What to Expect When Getting Divorced) and two podcasts on the subject (Divorce Sucks and All’s Fair) and to whom we owe less understands why people marry the base.
Submit to a contract dictated by the state? That makes no sense ! […] People don’t realize they’re signing a contract! Especially the women! What, do I have to pay an annuity? But I’m a woman. Uh yes!
Laura Wasser, Divorce Attorney
In addition, dealing with a breakup is the same, regardless of whether your name is Britney or, for example, Roger, she emphasizes. As painful and painful as it is dizzying. “Just add some zeros to the ante. But whether we’re arguing over a vintage Honda or a private jet, we face the same fears and sadness. Those are the same questions that come up: Will the kids be okay? Will I have enough to live on? »
His wish? “Let’s finally simplify the processes,” she replies without hesitation. “If it happens that often, can we make it easier?” Two children from two different fathers later, separated without paperwork, so she is very happy, thank you. “Oh no! And my current spouse is perfectly aware of that! She finishes with a laugh.