Daniel Joseph Gerl

DUI and DWI Attorney at Tacoma, WA

About
Contact
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Cost
Resume

Deferred Ticket

The real dui away

About Daniel

Learn Daniel’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

50%

Five years as a prosecuting attorney handling criminal cases; over 10 years private DV and Criminal Defense Attorney defending those charged with criminal offenses throughout the Puget Sound region.
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18 years, 1,500 cases
DUI and DWI

50%

Five years as a prosecuting attorney handling DUI cases; over 10 years private DUI Defense Attorney defending those charged with DUI related offenses throughout the Puget Sound region.

18 years, 2,500 cases

I am the Founder and CEO of Puget Law Group LLP – the premiere Criminal and Injury Trial Law Firm in the Pacific Northwest.

I am a former prosecuting attorney with nearly twenty years' experience handling DUI and other criminal cases in the Puget Sound area and beyond. I went to law school with the goal of becoming a prosecutor and began my legal career with the Skagit County Prosecutor's Office, where I handled several jury trials before graduating cum laude from Seattle University School of Law in 2005. After passing the Bar, I continued working as a prosecutor for several years in Federal Way and Pierce County, handling hundreds of DUI and criminal cases.

Over time I realized that, despite a high percentage of success at trial, I was more interested in helping people than I was in prosecuting them. I left the prosecutor's office in 2010 and went into private practice with Park Chenaur, a Personal Injury firm, where I handled both criminal defense and personal injury cases. In 2013, I went out on my own to start my own firm, Gerl Law PLLC (now Puget Law Group), where I focused on DUI and criminal defense.

In 2019, Puget Law Group became a partnership, with a goal to develop a Personal Injury practice alongside our Criminal Defense practice.

Three years later, PLG has become the fastest growing Criminal and Injury Law Firm in America (Inc. 5000, Law Firm 500) and the fastest growing law firm in Washington state. For the past few years we've been listed among the Inc. 5000 "Fastest Growing Companies in America," the Puget Sound Business Journal's "Fastest Growing Private Companies in Washington," and Law Firm 500's "Fastest Growing Law Firms in America."

I am a member of the Washington State Bar Association and Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association. I am licensed to practice law in courts throughout Washington in both State and Federal Court.

In my spare time I enjoys sports, cars, graphic design, barbecuing, and being dad to three boys aged 14, 9, and 3.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 17 years

State WA

Status Active

Acquired 2005

Updated 03/18/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

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Reviews

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4.8 / 5.0

35 customer reviews

5 Star

94%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Jessica Lee | August 7, 2019

Deferred Ticket

It was a pleasure working with the Puget Law Group. They were able to get my ticket dismissed for me. I will definitely refer them to others

Posted by Brian | April 30, 2019

The real dui away

Dan and Nick got me the best possible outcome at a good price. Dan even called me on weekends from his personal cell. Puget law group will truly fight for you and go as far as trial if needed with no additional charges. I highly recommend Puget law group.

Posted by Nathan | February 6, 2019

Best Law Group in the Puget Sound

I used Dan Gerl in the past when I was facing Dui charges a few years ago. Dan was very helpful and supportive every step of the way and helped me get the most favorable outcome. Because of Dan Gerl, I had the confidence I could turn to Puget Law Group in my time of need. Most recently I was facing false accusation charges and am glad I turned to Zannie Carlson at Puget Law Group for help! Zannie was there for me every step of the way and helped me get the outcome I wanted. The process of going to a trial can be very stressful and Zannie was very supportive and could always be reached. I've had attorneys in the past who take days to respond to an email or return a phone call, so it was nice having an attorney on my side who cares and is reliable. If I ever need legal help in the future I will be using Puget Law Group again.

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Posted by Bill | October 5, 2018

Great attorney - helped with our traffic ticket

Dan and his team helped us with our daughters traffic ticket. He walked us through the entire process and kept us in the loop each step of the way. He successfully got the traffic ticket dismissed and we avoided expensive increases in our insurance. I'd use Dan and his team again in an instant!

Posted by Wayne | October 2, 2018

PUGET LAW GROUP ... IT GETS NO BETTER!

My name is Wayne, and recently I hired help from the Puget Law Group. We were put in contact with Mr. Nick Andrews. And boy, am I ever glad we got his help! My now wife (then fiance) was charged with her second DUI and facing 90+ days in jail and other horrible consequences. She is a professional, law abiding citizen but, found herself in a bad place due to a couple of honest mistakes and poor choices. We all are only human right? And make mistakes. Her last lawyer (was a paid attorney, fresh out of being court appointed) charged her for his so called 'services'. These 'services', were nothing short of worthless, lies and down right pathetic. He reminded me of a scared puppy dog who had been beaten up by the judge before in the courtroom. He basically told her to prepare for 90 days of jail and threw his hands up. I was ASTONISHED at his lack of help! So, the next day when my wife was at work, I started researching a new lawyer I could surprise my wife with and hire. I found the 'Puget Law Group' and the owner at this firm. He got us linked up with Nick in his office. Fast forward to her sentencing today. We have been trying to stay optimistic about this, but obviously were stressed for over a month and being told by the last lawyer to 'come prepared to do your time, 90 days'. Worried she will lose her job, income to our family and also her mental capacity if having to do 90 days in jail (hell, I'd go nuts myself), we felt confident in Dan Gerl (Owner of the Law Firm) and Mr. Nick Andrews. We prayed all night and did our best to not overreact and stress out. As soon as we arrived at the courthouse, we were greeted by Nick as he smiled and said he had great news for us! Nick had struck a rare deal before we arrived with the DA (basically unheard of) and was able to to get 99% of the mandatory state minimum jail time suspended! He also was able to push this time off until after the holidays, so my wife can now not only keep her job and her sanity, but can spend the holidays with myself and our family! We both couldn't be happier with the outcome! Nick has a demeanor that demands his respect! When he talks, everyone listens! I admired how even the judge's assistant stared at him in amazement as he spoke! The judge also had been edgy in the past, and a little harsh at times in my opinion. However, when Nick spoke, his facial expression showed respect and an eagerness to listen to what he had to say! A true sign of respect! I can honestly say 1000% without doubt, If I ever need a lawyer (let's hope not!) I too will be using Nick. Sharp, well spoken, knowledge of the law and rights, professional and respected. These are words that come to mind about Nick Andrews. If you have the honor of having Nick in your corner, rest assured, you will get the best outcome possible. I can say that WITHOUT a grain of hesitation and put my name on it! THANK YOU NICK! THANK YOU PUGET LAW GROUP! God bless you all. -Wayne

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Posted by An alcoholic | February 2, 2018

A very happy client,5 stars here...

A joke among attorneys is ;switching attorneys is like switching decks on the titanic; my first attorney was horrible,I called Zannie Carlson and fired my first attorney,Zannie and Daniel are honest and care about their clients,Zannie handled my case and reduced the charges .afterward Zannie said she will help with my disability case,NOW THAT IS SERVICE!!! 5 stars plus,DUI is scary!but you will be happy with Zannie and Dan.please do not drink and drive!!!!!!!

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Posted by anonymous | November 18, 2017

Civil Protection Order

After leaving the country for a weekend vacation, I was informed by US border agents I had a civil protective order issued against me from a previous relationship. With my occupation requiring a security clearance, being an avid outdoorsman and having a potential permanent mark on my record I knew I needed an experienced attorney. I contacted Dan to explain my situation. He cut my stress level in half, illustrated how the law operated pertaining to my case and was always available to contact. Dan was prepared for anything and crafted the best professional strategy for my defense. He was able to negotiate an agreement before going to trial saving my job, reputation, gun rights and record. Thanks again Dan.

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Posted by Garry | November 17, 2017

DUI dropped to reckless

I hired Dan after my 3rd DUI although it was over seven years since my last one I knew I was in trouble. Dan looked at my case and found errors in the arrest report and called into question the nature and cause for the stop. He went over all my options and answered any questions I had and stayed in contact the whole time. The arresting officer had been deployed to Afghanistan and my case went for almost a year but the prosecutor sensed they would have a hard time proving the case if it went to trial so they offered a reduced charge to reckless and 30 days house arrest. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. I feel Dan’s knowledge and experience played a big role and I would recommend him to anyone who could use his service.

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Posted by David | July 29, 2017

The best around

He got back to me right away, understanding of the situation. If you're wanting someone to stand by you, with integrity he is who you want. Going through this life there's very few people you can count on, he is one you can.

Posted by Jacob | March 12, 2017

Excellent Attorney!

Dan was very professional and knew what he was doing. He would always answer my questions anytime of the day. I was really pleased with the outcome that he got for my case. Even after the case, Dan still helped me out with a few extra situations I had. I could not thank him enough. I would definitely recommend Dan to anyone looking for a professional, well educated attorney that they can feel comfortable with.

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Posted by Ryan | December 20, 2016

Great Lawyer would recommend him to everyone I know

I hired on Dan after I was arrested for a DUI refusal. He took on my case and explain every option to me. He had plans upon plans on how to tackle my case. He was always very responsive and attentive to my questions and concerns. He is very well known with his peers and respected. Because of his knowledge and him going to bat for me I had a very favorable outcome. If anyone needs help and they don't know where to go I would highly recommend hiring Dan.

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Posted by Josh | November 14, 2016

Hit and Run

I made a big mistake when leaving a bicyclist that I hit. Dan clammed me down and explained the law and what we need to do to handle this. The outcome was better than expected, keeping me from ruins. He worked with me on his fee. Great job.

Posted by Mike | April 5, 2016

Excellent Defense Attorney

I had my free consultation with Dan the day after my DUI. I decided to retain his services after that. He worked with me on my finances so I could retain him. He talked me through the process, and answered all my questions putting me at ease. He did an outstanding job at the DOL hearing, and I was able to avoid having my license suspended by DOL. My case lasted a long time, 21 months. But Dan always stayed on top of it, and focused. His prior experience as a prosecutor will be a great asset to you. I highly recommend him.

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Posted by Mike Ho | November 30, 2015

An Effective Results Oriented Attorney

In July of 2015 I was arrested for DUI. I am an older person and this was the first time I'd ever been arrested for DUI. I did not realize how severe the mandatory minimum sentence for a DUI conviction is in Washington State and this caused me a great deal of anxiety. Fortunately, Dan was able to explain and walk me through the process and obtain the outcome I desired. Dan was able to plea the DUI charge down to Negligent Driving by the time of my Preliminary Hearing which was a huge relief. I suspect there was a good chance Dan could have obtained a not guilty verdict had we gone to trial but I found the King County District Court system difficult and uncertain and I just wanted to favorably end my ordeal which Dan accomplished.

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Posted by Henry | January 22, 2014

Strong Knowledge of the Law

I was arrested for DUI and at first I had a different attorney. Even though I had no prior history, the prosecutor wouldn't agree to reduce the charge. I hired Dan Gerl hoping it would make a difference. Dan gave me no guarantees other than that he would fight as hard as he could for me. Dan discovered that the law enforcement agency negligently allowed key evidence to be destroyed and tried to get the case thrown out based on that. The court denied his request, but later Dan was able to get the case thrown out by persuading the court that the officer who stopped me had no lawful basis to do so. I am very thankful to have hired Dan Gerl to represent me in Court. I felt very confident with his strong knowledge of the law and aggressive approach in representing my case. Is this very knowledge of the law that set me free.

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Posted by anonymous | December 7, 2013

Easy to work with Daniel

Dan got me out of my DUI after not passing my sobriety test. I worked with 4 different lawyers before being referred to Gerl Law. I just did not feel comfortable working with anyone until I met Daniel. I was completely new to the entire court system He took me through everything step by step with success! I would recommend Daniel to anyone.

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Posted by Melissa | October 3, 2013

recommendation for Dan Gerl

Dan has helped me through one of the scariest processes of my life. He gave me recommendations to be proactive in my treatment, which impressed the judge and I believe made a difference in my sentencing. I can truly tell he cares about his clients and would recommend him to anyone.

Posted by SPEEDING (BUT GRATEFUL) BRIDE | September 29, 2013

Dan Got Me To The Church On Time!

I got a ticket last Fall in Tacoma. I was getting ready to get married and I really didn't want to deal with fighting it, but I also didn't want it to go on my record. I hired Dan to handle it and he took care of everything. I didn't have to go to court, and the day before my wedding he got my ticket dismissed! It was one less thing I had to worry about before my big day. I'm very grateful - thanks Dan!

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Posted by Connor | September 27, 2013

ALWAYS HELPFUL AND FAIR

I have been using Dan for close to three years. He has helped me in a number of cases throughout the past three years. He has always been willing to help and very fair with my money. I was referred to him by a friend who also used him. I had done quit a bit of calling around and comparing fees before I found Dan and his were very fair in any type of case and he is the person I recommend all of my personal friends to hire. Dan has always been very knowledgable and helped explain the way things work and what is going to happen and he has been able to resolve any case that i have brought to him very easily. When ever I walk into court I feel confident when I have Dan with me, he knows his stuff and has been very helpful to me as well as several of my friends. He has gotten me much better outcomes than I have expected every time.

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Posted by Jeff | June 18, 2013

Dan Took 'Em To The Mat!

I was driving south on 405 thru Bellevue and took the NE 8th exit West to 112th Ave NE thinking I would turn left on 112th and blow past the daily 405 southbound backup. Much to my shagrin I was informed by local Bellevue law enforcement that it was illegal to turn left on 112th Ave NE from NE 8th dropping a cool 124 dollar fine in my lap. As a commercial driver this was not the ticket I needed and even tho I had no chance of having this scar removed from my record I still had to fight it. Never plead guilty… ever! I was working 70 to 80 hours a week so I had no time for the daunting task of procuring legal representation to take my fight to the court house so I called a good friend of mine and asked him if he could find someone for me. That is when he hooked me up with Dan. Now the Bellevue courts drug their feet for over 5 months in issuing me a court date thus failing to meet their 180 day time limit so that is when Dan swooped in like Seal Team 6 and took them to the matt! Unfortunately before I got in contact with Dan, as I had drug my feet, I too had missed a deadline of my own in requesting a speedy trial upon finally receiving my court date so in a nut shell Bellevue had a technicality to counter my technicality and yet… Dan still won the case! To tell you how good he is he even texted me with questions while in court fighting the mighty beast now that is service!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner / Member
Puget Law Group
2013 - Present

Associate Attorney
Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc., PS
2010 - 2013

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney
2008 - 2010

Municipal Prosecutor
City of Federal Way Prosecuting Attorney
2006 - 2008

Contract Prosecuting Attorney
Snohomish County Prosecutor's Office
2005 - 2006

Rule 9 Legal Intern
Skagit County Prosecuting Attorney
2004 - 2005

Externship
King County Prosecuting Attorney Office
2003 - 2003

View all work experience

Education

Seattle University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2005

University of Washington -Seattle
BA - Bachelor of Arts, with Distinction
2002

Spokane Falls Community College
A.A.S.
1992

Legal Cases

STATE VS. R.M.
NOT GUILTY ON ALL CHARGES

STATE V. E.N.
Dismissed for Lack of Probable Cause to Stop Driver

Lakewood vs. W.H.
NOT GUILTY

View all legal cases

Associations

Athletes for Kids (AFK)
Board of Directors, Member
2015 - Present

United State District Court - Western District of Washington
Attorney Member
2014 - Present

Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
2010 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association
Member
2008 - Present

Washington State Bar Association
Member
2005 - Present

National College of DUI Defense
Member
2013 - 2014

King County Bar Association
Member
2010 - 2012

Citizens for Judicial Excellence (CJE)
Member
2010 - 2014

Washington State Trial Lawyers Association
Member
2010 - 2013

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Korean

Spanish

Honors and Awards

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2016

10 Best Under 40
American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2015

Client's Choice Award
Avvo
2013

Level 5 Contributor
Avvo
2013

Best of 1995
Graphic Design USA
1995

Best of 1995
Spicer's Printing
1995

1995 Regional Annual - Best in Design for 1995
PRINT Magazine
1995

Student Award Gold
Northwest ADDYs
1993

Silver Award
Northwest ADDYs
1993

AIGA Trapeze Award
AIGA (Seattle)
1992

View all awards

Publications

Graphic Design USA
Best of 1994-1995
1995

Speaking Engagements

BNI Weekly Business Luncheon
Criminal Defense
2015

Discussion - DV Defense and Family Law
Domestic Violence and Criminal Defense
2014

Todd Beamer H.S. Street Law Class
What it means to be a Criminal Defense Attorney
2014

South King County YMCA High School Mock Trial Competition
South King County YMCA High School Mock Trial Competition
2014

South King County YMCA High School Mock Trial Competition
South King County YMCA High School Mock Trial Competition
2013

Seattle Toastmasters Luncheon
Graphic Design and Branding / Internet Industry
1999

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (28)

Given (35)

Endorse Daniel

Stephen Rue

DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse this lawyer. Beyond his excellent legal skills, he is a wonderful and caring human being."

Virginia Amato

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Dan works hard for his clients seeking out the best information available to achieve the best outcome."

Angelle Gerl

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Dan Gerl is an excellent attorney who works hard to advocate for his clients. He is articulate and diligent in his representation. I have heard Dan argue many hearings very well."

Jeremy Macrigeanis

DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have both litigated against Dan in criminal courts and later worked with Dan on cases when he moved to private practice. With this first hand knowledge, I am in a position to confidently say that Dan has the equal parts of the following that every person researching an attorney to trust with their case should desire: a sharp legal mind; a deep understanding of the courts, prosecutors, and judges in the area; both jury trial and negotiation success; and the increasingly rare trait these days of not only caring about the plight of his clients, but also in keeping in contact with them regularly about the status of their cases."

Mark Blair

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. As a former prosecutor, Dan has an advantage over other defense attorneys because he knows how prosecutor's and judges think."

Jason Powers

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Diane Whaley

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is a trusted advocate in the legal community. He will go above and beyond to obtain the right results for his clients."

Sean Cecil

DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 03
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Dan is a great guy and a lawyer that is relentless in pursuit of his objectives. As a prosecutor he was reasonable and fair, which can be refreshing."

Kara Murphy

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Everyone else has told you what a smart attorney Dan is. So, let me tell you how much he genuinely cares about each of his clients! If you want someone who will return your calls, show up on time and treats you like family, then call him. And, yes, he's smart too!!"

Harry Steinmetz

DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Dan is a good guy and a terrific lawyer. He is always prepared and ready to fight for his clients, but he also always has a joke or a pithy comment for his colleagues. He is well liked and respected in the legal community."

Martha Mclaughlin

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I had an opportunity to work with this attorney while we were both at the prosecutor's office. Both as a prosecutor and as a criminal defense attorney I found him to be ethical, hardworking and a zealous advocate for his clients. I endorse this attorney."

Joseph Baker

DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Andrew Yi

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Gerl is a tenacious advocate for his clients and will fight hard to ensure excellent results. He is well regarded among his peers and in the community. In addition, I highly respect him for his generosity and willingness to help his fellow attorneys out. He is always willing to give advice and help out. I endorse him highly."

Michael Harbeson

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Dan is an excellent advocate for his clients and his previous experience as a prosecutor gives him an edge in the courtroom."

Cory Wood

DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nicole Hankins

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Dan is a fantastic attorney I had the pleasure of working with as a prosecutor and now as a defense attorney. I can personally attest that his knowledge of both defense and prosecution perspectives is rarely paralleled. He is a passionate and zealous advocate for his clients. He has my highest recommendation."

Scott Moriarity

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Dan and I have worked many cases together. As a prosecutor, Dan was aggressive but displayed true integrity. As a defense attorney, he has displayed both those characteristics to help his clients."

Natalie Durflinger

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I had an opportunity to work with this attorney first as a prosecutor and then as a private attorney. He is a highly skilled and knowledgeable attorney. I wouldn't hesitate to endorse this attorney."

Gerald Sprute

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. As a former prosecuting attorney, Dan knows how to effectively negotiate favorable outcomes for his clients, and is an excellent trial attorney. I would have no hesitation referring clients to him."