Derek Bernstein

Legal Philosophy & Practice Areas

Derek Bernstein graduated from the University of Florida, in 2007 and 2008, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Telecommunication and  Masters of Science in Sport Management, respectively. During his time at UF, Derek worked as a journalist and ESPN, while also was an disc jockeying for Rock 104.

Following college, Derek spent a few years marketing in the technology sector. Upon deciding to pursue a career in law, Derek enrolled at Stetson University College of Law. While in law school, Derek held assorted clerkships throughout the Tampa Bay area while completing a certified legal internship at the State Attorney’s Office in Hillsborough County. During this time, Derek prosecuted misdemeanor and juvenile crimes where he experienced a great deal of success. Derek’s various clerkships and internships granted him a wide knowledge of legal areas and issues.

After graduating from law school, Derek worked in Employment litigation; fighting for the rights of employees against their employers. His main focus was on overtime wage disputes, sexual harassment, discrimination and minimum wage violations. From there Derek moved to insurance defense with a focus on Personal Injury Protection. Derek’s practice allowed him to travel throughout the state successfully representing insurance companies in Personal Injury Protection matters. When Matt Dolman offered Derek an opportunity to use his finely honed litigation skills to protect the rights of injured parties and medical providers, he jumped at the chance. Currently, Derek focuses his practice on breach of contract litigation, PIP litigation, and personal injury actions.

Derek presently resides in Riverview, Hillsborough County with his wife and two children. Derek is a self-described “foodie” and can often be found sampling the fare throughout the Tampa Bay area. Derek also loves concerts, festivals and sporting events.