Derek Hopson is a highly qualified and competent attorney, whose commitment to his clients is matched by few. He is committed to fighting on behalf of his clients, whether the opponent is a single individual or a large corporation. His firm, located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, has a powerful network of resources and associations despite its small-town feel. Mr. Hopson handles both small and large, complex cases, working diligently and tenaciously to bring redress and give back to clients the monies that have been taken from them. Aside from litigation, he continues to provide consultation and counsel to small governmental entities and companies.
In 1996, Mr. Hopson earned his law degree from the University of Mississippi after acquiring his B.S.B.A. degree in accounting at the University of Southern Mississippi. He has been admitted to practice in the State of Mississippi as well as in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi, the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Active in the legal arena and local community, Mr. Hopson is a member of a number of prestigious organizations, including the Mississippi Bar Association, the American Bar Association (ABA), the American Trial Lawyers Association (ATLA), the Magnolia Bar Association, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He is a member of Liberty Missionary Baptist Church with his wife and their children.
His success as an attorney has won Mr. Hopson the respect of many in the community. He was featured and quoted in the admission catalog of the University of Mississippi School of Law. He is among the premier solo and small firm practitioners in Mississippi, and particularly in the Mississippi Delta.
Biography
Born and raised in the small town of Lyon, Mississippi, Derek Hopson Sr. has built a legacy rooted in perseverance, intellect, and service. The son of a dedicated schoolteacher and a skilled auto mechanic, Mr. Hopson learned early the value of hard work and integrity — principles that have guided his career from the football fields of Coahoma County High School to the bench of the Clarksdale Municipal Court.
Mr. Hopson made history as the first Black student body president at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he earned his undergraduate degree in accounting. He later pursued his legal education at the University of Mississippi School of Law, laying the foundation for a career defined by advocacy and impact.
After law school, he returned to the Delta and launched his own practice in Clarksdale, Mississippi, serving individuals, businesses, and local governments with a rare blend of tenacity and compassion. Over the years, his reputation as a fierce litigator and trusted advisor grew, earning him respect across both legal and civic circles.
Today, Judge Hopson presides in Clarksdale, continuing his commitment to justice and community advancement. His journey — from small-town roots to historic leadership and judicial service — stands as a testament to resilience, excellence, and the enduring power of purpose.
Experience
- Founded a respected law practice in Clarksdale, Mississippi, serving individuals, businesses, and local governments across the Delta.
- Represents clients in civil litigation, personal injury, criminal defense, and municipal law, with a reputation for tenacity and strategic advocacy.
- Admitted to practice in the State of Mississippi, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi, the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Skilled in courtroom litigation, contract negotiation, and legal strategy across a wide range of practice areas.
- Provides ongoing counsel to small governmental entities and community organizations, blending legal expertise with civic leadership.
- Serves as a municipal judge in Clarksdale, Mississippi, continuing his commitment to justice and public service.
- Recognized for his historic leadership as the first Black student body president at the University of Southern Mississippi.
- Active in professional and civic organizations, including the Mississippi Bar, Magnolia Bar Association, and NAACP.
Practice Areas
Civil Litigation
Mr. Hopson advocates for clients in disputes involving contracts, property, and personal harm. His litigation style is thorough, strategic, and rooted in a deep understanding of Mississippi law.
Government & Municipal Law
He advises small governmental bodies on public contracts, governance, and regulatory compliance, offering practical solutions grounded in legal precision.
Business & Commercial Law
From business formation to dispute resolution, Mr. Hopson supports entrepreneurs and small companies with clear, actionable legal guidance.
Personal Injury
He represents individuals harmed by negligence or misconduct, pursuing fair compensation through aggressive advocacy and detailed case preparation.He represents individuals harmed by negligence or misconduct, pursuing fair compensation through aggressive advocacy and detailed case preparation.
Founding Attorney