Derek J. Punches

Meet Derek

Derek Punches is an administrative and regulatory attorney at Godfrey & Kahn, where he primarily focuses on environmental-related matters. In that capacity, Derek advises businesses, tribal entities, and local governments on environmental and land use issues, including:

• Environmental enforcement litigation support and defense strategies
• Brownfields redevelopment
• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance issues (PFAS)
• Wastewater permitting and compliance
• Wetland and waterways permitting and compliance
• Zoning and local permitting issues
• Lead service line replacement projects
• Municipal water infrastructure projects
• Riparian rights and floodplain management issues

In addition, Derek’s regulatory practice includes advising clients on a wide range of matters involving federal, state, and local agencies. He helps clients navigate complex administrative processes, engage with regulators, and respond to evolving policies and regulations. With over a decade of experience in the Wisconsin State Legislature, Derek brings valuable insight into legislative process, agency rulemaking, and regulatory strategy. His background includes work on environmental, energy, transportation, agriculture, economic development, and municipal issues, giving him a broad perspective on how government processes and decisions impact businesses and communities.

Before joining Godfrey & Kahn, Derek practiced environmental and municipal law at a Madison-based firm. Before entering private practice, Derek worked in the Wisconsin State Legislature for more than ten years, where he developed firsthand knowledge of the legislative, rulemaking, and administrative processes of state government. During that time, he drafted legislation, advised policymakers, and managed the operations of a Senate committee - experience that deepened his understanding of the intersection of law, policy, and regulation. This background continues to shape his client-focused approach to legal and regulatory challenges.