Frederick M. Thurman, Jr.

Partner

Working on a wide-ranging portfolio of projects and issues, Derick primarily counsels clients in employment law compliance and represents clients in employment-related litigation, as well as employee benefits litigation, business torts, estate bond litigation, land use, and general commercial litigation. He has held numerous leadership roles, including serving as chair of the Labor and Employment Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association and Chair of the Employment Law Section of the Mecklenburg County Bar. He frequently leads continuing legal education presentations.

Experienced in representing clients in both federal and state courts and before regulatory agencies, Derick has extensive experience in:

Appellate briefing and arguments, jury trials, arbitrations, and hearings before various government agencies
On the compliance counseling side of his practice, advising business clients on matters such as personnel policy drafting and review, employment contract drafting and review, and similar matters

Outside the office, Derick enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, and running. He has completed 13 half marathons.

Education

J.D., Cumberland School of Law of Samford University, 1995

National Institute for Trial Advocacy, Southeast Regional Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2002

B.S., magna cum laude, Clemson University, 1992

Professional Associations

Chair of the Labor and Employment Law Section of the Mecklenburg County Bar (2019-2020)
North Carolina Bar Association, Labor and Employment Law Section Chair (2007-2008); Vice Chair (2006-2007); CLE Committee Chair (2005-2007); Secretary (2002-2004); Council Member (2002-2005; 2005-2008)
North Carolina Bar Association Member (1999-Present)
Mecklenburg County Bar, Labor and Employment Section Vice Chair (2018-2019)
Mecklenburg County Bar Member (1999-Present ); CLE Steering Committee (2016-2017); CLE Committee (2015-2017)
Care Ring, Board of Directors (2006-2012)
Mecklenburg County Personnel Commission (2001-2004; 2004-2007)
North Carolina State Bar (1999-Present)
Alabama State Bar (1995-Present)