
I solve legal and business problems for high-growth companies, from founders with an idea to publicly traded companies.
About Derek
Derek, a founder of Cooley’s Miami office, focuses his practice on representing high-growth companies and their investors from formation through exit. His clients are primarily in the financial technology sector, broadly defined, including cryptocurrency/Web3, insurance, payments, wealth management and lending. He has substantial experience representing issuers and investors in private company financings, along with buyers and sellers in M&A. Derek also regularly advises clients on general corporate issues, securities matters and the implications of proposed business transactions. He has extensive experience representing clients outside the US, including emerging companies and venture capital funds operating in Latin America.
Education
Harvard Law School
JD, cum laude, 2008
Washington and Lee University
BS, Computer Science, summa cum laude, 2005
Rankings and accolades
Chambers USA: Band 5 – Startups & Emerging Companies – Nationwide (2021 – 2025)