Derek Patrick Thomas Ruzicka
Gausnell, O'Keefe & Thomas, LLC • Saint Louis, MO
LitigationGeneral Practice
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Contact
Email
druzicka@gotlawstl.com
Phone
(314) 310-1595
Address
Saint Louis, MO, 63101, US
Professional
About
**Derek Patrick Thomas Ruzicka** **Location:** Saint Louis, MO **Firm:** Gausnell, O'Keefe & Thomas, LLC **Practice Areas:** General Practice Derek P. Ruzicka is a seasoned trial attorney based in Saint Louis, Missouri, with a robust focus on complex litigation and a proven track record in diverse legal arenas. His extensive experience spans various jurisdictions, including the City of St. Louis, Madison and St. Clair Counties in Illinois, as well as Federal Courts in East St. Louis and St. Louis. Throughout his career, Derek has successfully navigated challenging cases, achieving favorable resolutions through dismissals, trial victories, and negotiated settlements. Derek's practice encompasses a wide array of legal issues, including general liability, professional liability, and toxic torts—representing clients involved with hazardous substances such as asbestos and benzene. He has a solid reputation for managing product liability claims and has represented a diverse clientele, including manufacturers of consumer products, power tools, industrial vehicles, and pharmaceutical products. In addition to his litigation expertise, Derek is dedicated to serving design and construction professionals. He has successfully arbitrated and tried numerous claims involving architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and property owners. His commitment to his clients extends beyond the courtroom; he provides valuable guidance in contract document reviews and consultations, ensuring that small business owners and design professionals are well-prepared for potential legal challenges. With a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of litigation and a strategic approach to problem-solving, Derek Ruzicka is well-equipped to assist clients in achieving their legal objectives. His commitment to excellence and client satisfaction makes him a trusted advocate in the Saint Louis legal community.
About Litigation Law
Litigation attorneys represent clients in civil lawsuits, handling all aspects of disputes from filing through trial and appeal. They are skilled advocates in and out of the courtroom. Common matters include civil disputes, business litigation, contract disputes, appeals.
Credentials
Education
2008 Southern Illinois University School of Law JD - Juris Doctor 2004 Valparaiso University BS - Bachelor of Science
Languages
English
Recognition & Involvement
Awards
N/A Dean's List, Dean's List N/A Editor, Editor, Southern Illinois University, School of Law, Law Review N/A Rising Star, Super Lawyers N/A Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
Publications
2021 Illinois Passes House Bill 3360 Amending Judgment Interest Statute GOTLaw Blog 2020 Remote Jury Selection Permitted in Illinois GOTLaw Blog 2016 When Should You Consider Retaining National Coordinating Counsel? – Missouri Captive Insurance Association Missouri Captive Insurance Association 2009 Contributor, Missouri Bar CLE Deskbook Series, Construction Law, 2009 Supplement, Chapter 1, "Construction Contributor, Missouri Bar CLE Deskbook Series, Construction Law, 2009 Supplement, Chapter 1, "Construction N/A Southern Illinois University Law Review It's Political, You Can't Be Offended! A Discussion of the Student Speech Analysis in Guiles ex. Rel. Guiles V.
Associations
Defense Research Institute Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel Lawyers Association of St. Louis Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
Speaking
2018 Western Region Captive Insurance Conference Captive Insurance N/A Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers, Annual Meeting "Show Me How to Pick a Lab and Present Convincing Evidence at Trial"
Other Litigation Attorneys in Saint Louis, MO
Updated: May 26, 2026