Overview

J. Derrick Maginness is a Shareholder in the firm’s Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice Group. He represents individuals and businesses in complex commercial litigation matters in Florida state and federal courts. Derrick’s practice spans a broad range of matters, including corporate and business disputes, employment law, banking law, real estate transactions and litigation, association law, creditor’s rights in bankruptcy, landlord-tenant matters, mediation, and general commercial litigation.

Before joining Trenam, Derrick practiced at a Sarasota law firm where he represented clients in a wide variety of commercial and business litigation matters.

Derrick earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations, with a minor in Military Science, from the University of Central Florida in 2001 and his Juris Doctor from Florida A&M University College of Law in 2005. He is admitted to practice in all Florida state courts and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Derrick is also a published author in the field of construction law.

In addition to his legal career, Derrick served for 12 years in the United States Army. He began his military service as an enlisted soldier with the Iron Rakkasans, 3/187 Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, serving as a pre-ranger instructor and radio operator for General David Petraeus. He later served as an Infantry Officer in multiple leadership roles, including platoon leader, executive officer, and company commander for D Company, 2/124 Infantry Regiment of the 53rd Infantry Brigade, and held various staff positions within the 2nd Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment.

Derrick is a member of The Florida Bar, the Sarasota County Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the 101st Airborne Division Association.

Professional Involvement

  • Florida Bar
  • Sarasota County Bar Association
  • American Bar Association
  • 101st Airborne Division Association

Community Involvement

  • Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
    • Leadership Sarasota County