Practice Areas
Heather Ritch Rocks is a seasoned attorney with more than 20 years of experience defending pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers in mass tort litigation. Her practice spans cases involving both prescription medications and devices, as well as over-the-counter drugs. Heather’s legal ability covers a broad range of medical and scientific issues, including matters related to cardiac and kidney disease, as well as reproductive and genitourinary systems. She is adept at working closely with medical and scientific experts to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to judges and juries.
Heather is highly skilled in developing strategies to secure the dismissal of claims before trial, and she has significant experience in challenging and limiting the testimony of opposing experts, particularly around medical causation. Her work with highly regulated product manufacturers has given her a deep understanding of quality and compliance programs, enabling her to provide clients with practical advice on risk mitigation and regulatory compliance.
In addition to her litigation practice, Heather has a strong background in e-discovery. As a former member of the Lawyers’ for Civil Justice E-Discovery Committee, she possesses a comprehensive understanding of e-discovery principles and regularly counsels clients on discovery matters, including data privacy protections.
Heather is recognized as a leader within her firm and the broader community. She currently serves as chair of the firm’s Partner Promotion Review Committee and previously chaired the Philadelphia office’s Women’s Network from 2016 to early 2024. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Heather is committed to public service, acting as a volunteer consultant to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia on medical-legal partnership initiatives and regularly representing pro bono clients in homeownership and guardianship proceedings.