Copenhaver, Ellett & Derrico: Rick L. Derrico - Roanoke, VA
Copenhaver, Ellett and Derrico has served Roanoke and Southwest Virginia for over 50 years, delivering distinguished legal counsel in real estate transactions, business law, estate planning, and civil litigation. Partner Rick L. Derrico combines decades of transactional precision and courtroom experience to help property owners, growing companies, and families navigate complex Virginia legal matters with confidence.
Over 50 Years of Trusted Legal Advocacy in Roanoke, Virginia
For more than half a century, the law firm of Copenhaver, Ellett and Derrico has stood as a pillar of integrity and legal excellence in downtown Roanoke. Established by pioneering attorneys John D. Copenhaver and J. Albert Ellett, the firm carries forward an enduring tradition of personalized, old-fashioned client dedication. Practicing from 30 Franklin Road SW, partner Rick L. Derrico joined the firm in 1991 and has spent decades guiding commercial clients, families, and property owners through high-stakes transactions and contentious disputes. When you need a lawyer who understands the nuances of Virginia statutes or seek to find an attorney with deep local roots, this distinguished Roanoke practice provides strategic, dependable representation.
Residential and Commercial Real Estate Law
Real estate transactions represent some of the most substantial financial investments individuals and corporate entities ever undertake. As seasoned residential real estate lawyers and commercial real estate lawyers, the attorneys at Copenhaver, Ellett and Derrico ensure every contract, conveyance, and closing is executed flawlessly. Whether dealing with title defects or negotiating commercial leases, the firm protects client equity across Southwest Virginia. Real estate services include:
- Comprehensive residential real estate closings, title examinations, title insurance issuance, and deed preparation.
- Structuring commercial property acquisitions, development agreements, and commercial retail and office lease drafting.
- Resolving property boundary disputes, easements, restrictive covenant conflicts, and quiet title litigation.
- Advising real estate developers, investors, and homeowners on land use, zoning, and municipal property regulations.
- Handling real estate financing, promissory notes, deeds of trust, and mortgage loan documentation.
Business Law, Formation, and Commercial Litigation
Starting, operating, or selling a company demands sound structural planning and airtight contracts. The firm acts as trusted outside general counsel for startups, family enterprises, and established regional corporations. When entrepreneurs need to hire a business formation lawyer, Rick L. Derrico assists in entity selection, preparing operating agreements, structuring shareholder agreements, and drafting vendor contracts. Furthermore, as experienced business litigation lawyers, the firm defends client interests when contractual breaches, partnership dissolutions, or commercial disputes arise.
Estate Planning, Trusts, and Probate Administration
Preserving family wealth and ensuring smooth intergenerational transitions requires customized testamentary planning. The firm works closely with clients to draft last wills, revocable trusts, and power of attorney instruments that minimize tax liabilities and avoid probate complications. Following the loss of a family member, the probate lawyers guide personal representatives and executors through asset collection, creditor notices, probate qualification, and fiduciary accounting filings.
Community Commitment and Dedicated Legal Solutions
The attorneys at Copenhaver, Ellett and Derrico are deeply invested in the growth and well-being of the Roanoke Valley. Partner Rick L. Derrico is an active member of the Roanoke Bar Association and a Roanoke Law Foundation Fellow, reflecting a lifelong devotion to the legal profession. Clients benefit from direct attorney access, transparent communication, and meticulous preparation on every case. Contact the Roanoke office today to schedule a confidential consultation and discover how experienced legal counsel can advance your business and protect your personal assets.
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Location & Access
Primary Address
Located in the central business district of Downtown Roanoke, within walking distance to local offices and courts.
Building Location
This office is located on the second floor of the Professional Arts Building, a fully renovated nine-story commercial office building. It is situated on Franklin Road SW, featuring views of the city and located near local landmarks like the Roanoke Public Library (Main Library) and Texas Tavern.
Parking Details
The office building offers adjacent surface parking for clients and tenants, as well as several public surface lots nearby.
Public Transit
Served by Valley Metro Route 51 (3rd St Station to Tanglewood Mall); nearest stop is at Jefferson & Bullitt (Main Library).
Accessibility / Suite Access
Enter the Professional Arts Building through the main entrance on Franklin Road SW. Use the passenger elevator to reach the second floor, where you can find Suite 200.