Derek Ellsworth Karchner, Business Attorney in Fairfax, Virginia

Derek concentrates on business, contracts, formation, franchise, and general. Each area below outlines the kind of case Derek handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Business

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• Contracts

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• Formation

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• Franchise

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• General

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• Government

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• Health Care

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• Litigation

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• M&A

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• Real Estate

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• Tax

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• Trusts

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• Zoning

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• Breach of Contract

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Derek's primary office is at 11350 Random Hills Road, #500, Fairfax, VA, 22030. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new business attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Derek usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Derek discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in business practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Derek for a business case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Derek walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Derek offer a free consultation?

  Derek charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Derek's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Derek's current terms during booking.

• How long do business cases in Virginia typically take?

  Simple business matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Derek gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Derek take my case if I'm outside Fairfax?

  Derek is licensed in Virginia. Matters governed by Virginia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Derek will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Derek?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Derek will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Derek accepting new business clients right now?

  Derek's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.