Derek represents lending institutions and borrowers in all aspects of cash flow, asset-based, real estate acquisitions, and construction loan financing transactions, including Low-Income Housing Tax Credit financings. Derek counsels and advises his clients on transaction structuring, documentation and negotiation of loan documentation, intercreditor and participation agreements and related lending matters. Derek’s representation of these clients extends to workout and debt restructuring arrangements for non-performing loans, including foreclosure and bankruptcy proceedings. Derek also represents lenders in equipment financing transactions including negotiation and documentation of syndications and other lease related financing transactions.
In his real estate practice, Derek advises real estate investors and developers as well as other individual and corporate clients in the acquisition, disposition, construction and leasing of real property, including the negotiation and drafting of real estate contracts and documents, commercial lease agreements, ground lease agreements, purchase and sale agreements and financing of all types of commercial real estate, such as retail properties, residential development projects, office complex development projects, and other mixed-use properties.
As a licensed real estate title agent, Derek helps clients with analysis of title issues and risks, coordination of title insurance coverages, environmental clearance, zoning, lien priority and other due diligence reviews. Derek’s practice within the firm’s title insurance agency, including the provision of a full range of settlement services, allows for a seamless integration with many of the firm’s real estate and lending clients.
In his corporate practice, Derek advises clients on general corporate governance matters including business planning and structuring, choice of entity issues, and real estate issues that arise in the course of corporate transactions.
In his free time, Derek enjoys cooking, golfing, skiing, and biking and is an avid Penn State football fan.
Community Involvement
- Allegheny County Bar Association, Member
- Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania Young Professionals Board, Member
- Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity – Nationwide Peer Accountability Committee, Chairman
- Pittsburgh Young Professionals, Member
- NAIOP Pittsburgh, Developing Leaders Member
- Financial Industries Network – Board of Directors
- Pennsylvania Bar Association, Member
- Urban Land Institute – Young Leaders Group Leadership Committee
- The Judith K. Fitzgerald Western Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Inn of Court – Member
