DERRICK WALKER
VOTE IN NASHVILLE JULY 19-23, 2024
VOTE IN NASHVILLE JULY 19-23, 2024
“The right to have civil claims resolved by a jury is a Constitutional right. It is foundational to our democratic society. Consequently, any limitation to the right to a trial by jury is an impediment to justice full stop. I see my role in AAJ to be very simple. I work through AAJ to help identify and remove any obstacle placed in the pathway of justice. I can’t capture the mission of the organization any better than that.” – Derrick Walker
As trial lawyers, we stand at the forefront of the relentless pursuit of justice. We are unwavering advocates for those who seek to use the court system to right civil wrongs. Although our path is noble, it is replete with obstacles at every turn. Day in and day out, we use our training, experience, and resources to overcome those impediments to civil justice and amplify the voices of the injured while holding those who perpetrate injustices accountable.
“It is in justice that the ordering of society is centered.”
Representing individuals in their fight against corporate wrongdoing is not just a duty for me; it is an honor deeply rooted in my belief in fairness and equality. Through my years of practice, I have witnessed the egregious injustices perpetuated by the profit-driven motives of big corporations at the expense of public safety. It is our sacred duty as trial lawyers to stand as the guardians of justice, ensuring that no harm goes unaccounted for and no dangerous product or conduct jeopardizes the safety of our communities.
As a proud member of the American Association for Justice, I have seen firsthand the tireless dedication of our organization to uphold the fundamental right to a jury trial enshrined by the 7th Amendment. Now, as I seek the office of AAJ Parliamentarian, I am driven by the belief that our ability to ensure a fair and accessible civil justice system for future generations hinges on our collective efforts within AAJ.
“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”
Our adversaries, driven by profit and power, seek to limit the power of juries and evade accountability. But we, as trial lawyers, stand firm in our commitment to justice. We know the importance of our gatekeeping role, ensuring that harmful conduct and dangerous products do not go unchecked.
Preserving the right to seek redress in civil cases is not just a constitutional mandate; it is the cornerstone of our democracy. Within AAJ, we must safeguard this right, and I am passionate about AAJ’s mission to do so. With my experience as a seasoned member of AAJ’s Executive Committee and incoming President-Elect of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, I bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership.
“History has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.”
I am incredibly honored by the recognition I have received from AAJ for my leadership and meaningful contributions to the organization over the years. That recognition includes: the David S. Shrager President’s Award, the Richard D. Hailey Distinguished Service Award, the Weidemann Wysocki Award, the AAJ Above and Beyond Award, the Minority Caucus Stalwart Award, the Minority Caucus Stalwart Award
But my work on behalf of AAJ is far from over. Our adversaries remain well-funded, well-organized, and relentless in their pursuit to dismantle the accountability guardrails of our civil justice system. Now, more than ever, AAJ needs strong and aggressive leaders who refuse to cede any ground to our opponents who envision a world where their profit-centered decision-making is immunized, and they are free to make their profits without regard for the consequences of their choices.
“Continue to speak out against all forms of injustice to yourselves and others, and you will set a mighty example for your children and for future generations.”
Together, we will confront new challenges, seize growth opportunities, and continue the legacy of strong leadership that defines AAJ. I am excited about the future and the impact we will make as we embark upon the next chapter of our fight to keep the courthouse doors open for all Americans.
I humbly ask for your support as I seek the office of Parliamentarian for the American Association for Justice. Together, let us continue our fight for justice and accountability, ensuring that the rights of every individual are upheld and protected under the law.
“The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them”
MINORITY CAUCUS STALWART AWARD – AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR JUSTICE (2023)
GO TO LAWYER FOR MEDICAL MALPRACTICE – VIRGINIA LAWYERS WEEKLY (2023)
AAJ DAVID S. SHRAGER PRESIDENT’S AWARD (2022)
VIRGINIA LAWYERS WEEKLY LEADERS IN THE LAW HONOREE (2020)
BEST LAWYERS IN AMERICA – LITIGATION EDITION (2020)
AAJ LEADERSHIP ACADEMY GRADUATE (2019)
BEST LAWYERS IN AMERICA (2017 – PRESENT)
VIRGINIA SUPER LAWYERS (2013 – PRESENT)
LISTED AS “RISING STAR” IN VIRGINIA SUPER LAWYERS (2007 – 2012)
AV PEER REVIEW RATED BY MARTINDALE HUBBELL (HIGHEST POSSIBLE RATING)
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF TRIAL LAWYERS STUDENT ADVOCATE AWARD
AAJ MINORITY CAUCUS LEADERSHIP AWARD (2018)
AAJ RICHARD D. HAILEY DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT (2020, 2021, 2023)
AAJ WIEDEMANN & WYSOCKI AWARD RECIPIENT (2020)
AAJ ABOVE AND BEYOND AWARD RECIPIENT (2021, 2023)
WILLIAMSBURG SOCIETY MEMBER – VIRGINIA TRIAL LAWYERS ASSOCIATION
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR, UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (2019 – PRESENT)
VIRGINIA TRIAL LAWYERS ASSOCIATION
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR JUSTICE
BOYD GRAVES CONFERENCE (2008 – PRESENT)
VIRGINIA MODEL JURY INSTRUCTION COMMITTEE (FORMER)
THE ETHERIDGE SOCIETY
THE MELVIN BELLI SOCIETY
