Derek was born in Germany and raised near Edmonton, AB. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in 1996 from the University of Alberta and Bachelor of Laws in 1999 from the University of New Brunswick. Derek was a Bencher for the Law Society of Alberta from 2012-2015 and received his KC designation in 2014 for service to the legal profession. He was again named Regional Managing Partner of Northern Alberta in 2022.
Derek has practiced law in Grande Prairie since 1999 and his practice now focuses on Real Estate, Business Law, and Commercial transactions. He has appeared before the Alberta Court of Appeal and the Federal Court of Appeal. Derek’s passion is service to the community. Derek was instrumental in setting up the Pro Bono Grande Prairie Legal Guidance Clinic. He also currently sits on the boards of Aquatera, Grande Prairie Friendship Centre and Swan City Football Club.
Away from law, Derek enjoys time with his spouse, kids, sports, reading, and travelling.