Derek Ulmer

Derek K. Ulmer, lead attorney of the Civil Litigation practice at Goyette, Ruano and Thompson, is a highly dedicated and meticulous attorney known for his comprehensive approach to legal matters. With a solid foundation in civil law and a wealth of practical experience, Mr. Ulmer offers a unique blend of expertise to his clients.

Prior to entering the legal profession, he spent over a decade in the construction industry, gaining invaluable insights and practical skills that continue to inform his legal practice. Throughout his time in the field, he worked in various capacities, starting as a skilled laborer and gradually advancing to the position of foreman. Motivated by his entrepreneurial spirit, he eventually established and managed his own construction business. This hands-on experience provided him with exceptional problem-solving abilities, acute attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the legal aspects surrounding labor and employment issues.  Drawing upon his intimate familiarity with the employment and business sector, Mr. Ulmer is uniquely positioned to offer targeted and effective legal counsel to his clients, whether they are employers or employees. He possesses the analytical insight to thoroughly evaluate cases, develop sound legal strategies, and provide tailored guidance that addresses the specific needs of his clients.

Throughout his legal career, Mr. Ulmer has represented and defended clients in civil litigation, expertly handling every stage of the legal process, from client intake to settlement. His extensive experience includes participation in numerous depositions and motion hearings, as well as conducting successful jury trials and mediations. Notably, he has secured substantial monetary awards exceeding $2.5 million for his clients. Beyond his litigation expertise, Mr. Ulmer has also provided general governance and legal counsel to both private and public entities. His wide-ranging services encompass representing clients at administrative hearings, conducting workplace misconduct investigations, delivering trainings on workplace sexual harassment and discrimination, and offering a broad range of legal advice to various private and public entities. Additionally, he has assisted clients with trust and estate planning, catering to their specific needs and objectives. These experiences have shaped his expertise and provided him with a strong foundation in various aspects of the legal field. Clients value his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to provide sound legal advice, making him an invaluable asset to their legal needs. With his comprehensive legal knowledge, extensive real-world experience, and unwavering commitment to his clients, Mr. Ulmer continues to provide exceptional legal representation and guidance to individuals and organizations alike.

Mr. Ulmer pursued his legal education at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, where he obtained his Juris Doctor degree. Throughout his academic journey, he actively engaged in various legal organizations, serving as an Executive Board Member of the Public Legal Services Society and a Member of the Anthony M Kennedy Inn of Court. His outstanding academic achievements were recognized with the John A. McCarthy Foundation Scholarship and the Witkin Award in Professional Responsibility. Prior to his legal studies, Mr. Ulmer earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from California State University, Sacramento.