Rod De Llano

From Corporate Defense to Plaintiff Advocacy

Rodrigo R. "Rod" De Llano Jr. made a deliberate choice that changed his career: he left a lucrative position defending corporations at a major international law firm to represent individuals suffering from asbestos-related diseases.

As he later reflected: "Though he was well paid, had honed his legal skills, and learned a great deal, he wanted to direct his energy and talents towards helping people in significant need of representation."

This transition led to founding Danziger & De Llano, LLP with partner Paul Danziger, which has now operated for over 25 years with an exclusive focus on mesothelioma litigation.

Understanding How Defendants Think

Rod's years defending corporations provide invaluable insight into defense strategies. He understands how corporate legal teams build their cases, what evidence they seek to suppress, and where their arguments are most vulnerable. This perspective allows him to anticipate defense tactics and prepare his clients' cases accordingly.

"Rod finds tremendous satisfaction in fighting for justice and compensation for clients diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer."

Notable Case Results

The following represent verified case results achieved by Danziger & De Llano. Amounts shown are after attorneys' fees and expenses—what clients received directly.

Recovery	Case Details
$6,142,650	68-year-old woman with mesothelioma from secondary exposure while helping husband with general contracting and laundering his asbestos-contaminated work clothes
$5,939,010	46-year-old man diagnosed with mesothelioma after asbestos exposure while repairing boats and doing demolition work
$4,750,000	49-year-old mesothelioma victim exposed to asbestos during his Navy career
$3,921,750	68-year-old mesothelioma victim exposed to asbestos during Navy service, construction, and auto mechanics work
$3,600,450	67-year-old man with mesothelioma after asbestos exposure during Navy service and as a construction contractor

Bilingual and Culturally Competent

Growing up in Laredo, Texas along the U.S.-Mexico border, Rod developed bilingual skills and bicultural perspective that serve his diverse client base. He provides Spanish language capability and understands the cultural dynamics affecting Hispanic families navigating the legal system.

Diverse Legal Expertise

Beyond mesothelioma, Rod has handled cases involving:

• Product liability across multiple industries
• Whistleblower cases protecting employees who report safety violations
• Antitrust matters addressing anti-competitive corporate behavior
• Class action lawsuits representing large groups of injured plaintiffs
• Intellectual property litigation involving complex technical evidence

Community Service

Beyond his legal practice, Rod demonstrates commitment to his community through volunteer involvement with:

• Child Advocates — Supporting abused and neglected children
• Houston Food Bank — Addressing food insecurity
• Star of Hope Mission — Services for homeless individuals
• DePelchin Children's Center — Foster care and adoption services
• Texas Civil Rights Project — Advocating for underrepresented communities

The Puncture Connection

Rod served as Executive Producer of the 2011 film Puncture, starring Chris Evans, which dramatized a real case exposing corrupt practices in the medical supply industry. He also made a cameo appearance in the film, demonstrating hands-on commitment to advocacy that extends beyond individual courtroom victories.

For comprehensive information about asbestos trust funds and compensation options, visit WikiMesothelioma.com.