Derek represents governmental entities, correctional institutions, and their employees in all aspects of governmental liability, including law enforcement defense, correctional intuitions defense, and employment law. He defends clients facing allegations of civil rights and Section 1983 violations, false arrest and excessive force, unlawful prison conditions, negligent hiring, defamation, and wrongful death and personal injury. Before joining Jones, Skelton & Hochuli, Derek served as a law clerk for the Honorable Randall M. Howe at the Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One for two years.

During law school, Derek worked as a law clerk in the Gangs Bureau of the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and as a certified limited practice student for the Child and Family Law Clinic. Derek served as the vice president of the Student Bar Association and worked as a teaching fellow for undergraduate students. He earned the Chandler/Carroll Public Service Award and the Ralph W. Aigler Memorial Award for the most significant scholarly contribution to the College of Law. While pursuing his undergraduate degree in Psychology, Derek worked as a research assistant in the Legal Psychology Research Lab.

During his free time, Derek enjoys hiking, camping, going to the movies, and spending time with family and friends.