A. Derek Folds - Gainesville, FL

Derek Folds is a partner at Folds Walker, PLLC and an accomplished Florida trial and appellate attorney whose practice focuses primarily on family law, local government law, and appellate advocacy. Known for her thorough preparation, strategic thinking, and practical approach to resolving complex legal issues, Derek represents individuals and municipalities throughout Florida. She also serves as a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem, advocating for the best interests of children involved in family law proceedings.

A Gainesville native, Derek has built her career on a commitment to public service and the legal profession. She currently serves as President of the Eighth Judicial Circuit Bar Association and has been appointed by The Florida Bar to serve on both the Eighth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee "A" and the Family Law Rules Committee, where she helps shape the practice and administration of family law throughout the state.

Before attending law school, Derek worked for more than five years with the Alachua County Clerk of Court in the Official Records, Criminal Trials, and Felony Divisions. That experience provided her with a strong understanding of Florida's court system and the litigation process from the inside—a perspective that continues to benefit her clients today.

While earning her Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law, Derek graduated magna cum laude and distinguished herself academically and professionally. She served as Notes and Comments Editor for the Florida Coastal Law Review and as Senior Editor of the Public Interest Research Bureau. She also interned for a United States Magistrate Judge and worked for a boutique appellate law firm in Jacksonville, where she developed a strong foundation in appellate advocacy.

Derek received Book Awards for earning the highest grade in four law school courses—Property I, Products Liability (Advanced Legal Writing), Remedies, and Race and the Law—and was recognized as a Pro Bono Honors Student after completing more than 125 hours of volunteer legal service. She also served on the Executive Board of Law Students Against Violence, reflecting her longstanding commitment to advocacy and community service.

Outside the courtroom, Derek enjoys spending time with her husband and stepchildren, and their three beloved fur-babies—Violet, Poppy, and Billy Buttons. A lifelong competitive billiards player, she is an active member in the American Poolplayers Association and the one of the highest ranked female players in the tri-county area.