Derek represents governmental entities, correctional institutions, and their employees in all aspects of governmental liability, including law enforcement defense, correctional institutions defense, and employment law. He defends clients facing civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as state tort claims. Derek also represents public and private employers on a broad range of employment issues and has defended employers against charges brought with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Arizona Civil Rights Division. He litigates complex cases in both federal and state court.

Before joining Jones, Skelton & Hochuli, Derek served as a law clerk for the Honorable Randall M. Howe at the Arizona Court of Appeals from 2016-2018. While in law school, Derek served as the Editor-in-Chief of the International and Comparative Law Journal and 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.

When not in the office, Derek enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, hiking, and going to the movies.