Meet Our Team
Derek graduated with distinction from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. He then attended law school at the University of South Dakota School of Law. As a testament to his writing and advocacy skills, Derek was simultaneously a Law Review Editor and a Moot Court Board Member during law school. Derek graduated from law school as a Sterling Honors Graduate and was the recipient of the Law School’s Gavel Award. After graduating, Derek clerked for the Honorable Justice Judith Meierhenry of the South Dakota Supreme Court
Derek has a comprehensive litigation-only practice with a focus on insurance-based, personal injury, and commercial cases. He tries jury trials across South Dakota, argues before the South Dakota Supreme Court, and appears regularly in South Dakota’s Federal Courts. Derek is AV-Preeminent rated for demonstrating the highest legal abilities and professional ethics.
Derek is a passionate and relentless advocate for his clients. He cares, he listens, and he works hard to take care of his clients. For this, Derek is recognized and respected as a fearless trial lawyer who goes the extra mile.