Verónica Vázquez’s journey to becoming a trial lawyer began in a small Puerto Rican classroom, defending her cousin with nothing but instinct and a strong sense of justice.

That same energy now fuels her work in one of the largest environmental litigations in U.S. history. A black belt in Taekwondo and a mother of two when she entered law school, Verónica’s early career was forged in adversity—studying by candlelight after Hurricane Maria and launching her solo practice from scratch. Today, she serves at Napoli Shkolnik, where she leads PFAS litigation across the country, representing public water systems impacted by toxic chemical contamination. 

Her human-first approach sets her apart. “Everything is work and guided by humans,” she says, emphasizing the empathy and discipline behind her advocacy. She’s not only been a voice in the courtroom but also a tireless researcher—often studying environmental law and science after hours. Her work on the PFAS MDL led to historic settlements with 3M and DuPont, and she continues to pursue justice against smaller manufacturers still polluting U.S. water supplies. For Verónica, being a trial lawyer isn’t just a job—it’s about rebuilding trust, especially in communities that have long been overlooked.

Key Takeaways

• Overcoming both personal and environmental challenges, this trial advocate began a legal career grounded in resilience.
• Leading PFAS litigation has resulted in major victories for public water systems and environmental justice.
• A deeply human-centered approach fosters trust and connection with clients across diverse communities.
• Discipline and mental toughness from martial arts training directly inform preparation and courtroom performance.

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