Jessica C. Watt is a litigator who represents clients in complex corporate and commercial disputes.
Jessica’s corporate litigation practice before the Delaware Court of Chancery regularly addresses breach of fiduciary duty claims, shareholder disputes, advancement and indemnification claims, and other corporate governance issues. Jessica also handles commercial litigation involving breach of contract and fraud claims in Delaware state courts and U.S. District Courts.
Experience
Representative Matters
Corporate Litigation
- Represented Twitter in its successful enforcement of Elon Musk’s obligation to complete his acquisition of the company for $54.20 a share, an aggregate price of $44 billion. After signing a merger agreement, Mr. Musk reneged, raising various explanations for his refusal to close. Twitter brought an action for specific performance in Delaware’s Chancery Court. Working with Twitter’s lead counsel, Ballard Spahr’s team pursued discovery against more than 100 third-party witnesses, including Mr. Musk’s equity investors and attorneys. Shortly before trial, Mr. Musk announced he would go forward with the deal and obtained a stay of the litigation. On October 27, 2022, Mr. Musk closed the acquisition in accordance with the terms of merger agreement.
- Won dismissal of multi-million dollar indemnification claim against Fortune 500 company in Court of Chancery; obtained affirmance on appeal to Delaware Supreme Court
- Won dismissal of LLC officer’s claim for advancement of legal fees and expenses in dispute with LLC based on contractual limitations in LLC Operating Agreement
Professional Highlights
Pro Bono Experience
Jessica's pro bono work includes assisting with applications for asylum to the United States, defense of withholding from removal proceedings, and obtaining Special Immigrant Juvenile Status for unaccompanied minors.
Recognition & Accomplishments
The Best Lawyers in America, "Ones to Watch," Commercial Litigation, Criminal Defense: White-Collar (Wilmington), 2021-2025
Human Rights First, "Pro Bono Star," 2024
Benchmark Litigation, "40 & Under List," - Securities (Northeast), 2023, 2024
Credentials
Education
The Pennsylvania State University, Dickinson School of Law (J.D. 2013 magna cum laude)
Senior Editor, Penn State Law Review
University of North Carolina (B.A. 2010, with distinction)
Admissions
Delaware
U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit