Derrick W. Whetzel

Derrick W. Whetzel is a Virginia and West Virginia attorney who helps clients facing family disputes, criminal charges, injury claims, and civil litigation. His work includes divorce, custody, visitation, support, criminal defense, personal injury, collections, real estate litigation, wills, and estates. He guides clients through each stage of the legal process with practical advice, careful preparation, and a focus on the client’s goals and available remedies in court proceedings.

Derrick earned his J.D. from Widener University Delaware Law School. He also earned his B.S. in criminal justice from Virginia Commonwealth University. His education supports work involving courtroom advocacy, negotiation, evidence review, and legal analysis. He uses that background to explain procedures, assess risks, prepare claims, and help clients make informed decisions when legal matters affect family, freedom, property, finances, or recovery after injury or civil disputes affect daily life.

Derrick has developed experience across several practice areas, which allows him to address connected legal problems with efficiency. In family matters, he helps clients work through divorce, custody, visitation, and support concerns. In criminal and civil cases, he evaluates facts, protects rights, and prepares strategies for negotiation or court. His broad litigation background helps clients respond to disputes involving contracts, negligence, property, or estates with stronger planning and direction.

Derrick W. Whetzel is admitted in Virginia and West Virginia, along with several federal courts and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. His professional work reflects a practical approach built on preparation, communication, and case-specific planning. Through family law, criminal defense, personal injury, civil litigation, real estate disputes, wills, and estates, he helps clients protect rights and pursue workable outcomes during difficult legal challenges and disputes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, GravesWhetzel Law, PLLC
• Member, Virginia State Bar
• Executive Board of Directors, Boys and Girls Club of Harrisonburg (2002 to 2014)

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

• Widener University Delaware Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Virginia Commonwealth University
  B.S. in Criminal Justice

Awards & Badges