Daniel Joseph Gerl

Daniel Joseph Gerl

also known as Dan Gerl

4.8
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 20 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Tacoma, WA
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury

950 Broadway, M-100, Tacoma, WA

About Daniel

Biography

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 45%

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.

21 years | 2,500 cases

45%
DUI and DWI 45%

Five years as a prosecuting attorney handling DUI cases; over 14 years private DUI Defense Attorney defending those charged with DUI related offenses throughout the Puget Sound region.

21 years | 5,000 cases

45%
Personal Injury 10%

16 years | 50 cases

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 45 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 20 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 2005

Active

No misconduct found

Location

NextLaw PLLC

950 Broadway, M-100, Tacoma, WA, 98402

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Daniel Joseph Gerl's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

35 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 35 reviews

Posted by Bill | October 06, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

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 03, 2018 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

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, la...w 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

Posted by An alcoholic | February 02, 2018 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

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!!!!!!!

Posted by anonymous | November 19, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Family

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.

Posted by Garry | November 17, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

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 c...ontact 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.

See All Client Reviews

Daniel Joseph Gerl's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Daniel
Stephen Rue headshot
Stephen Rue

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 M Amato headshot
Virginia Amato

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Marie Gerl headshot
Angelle Gerl

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 Demetrius Macrigeanis headshot
Jeremy Macrigeanis

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 C Blair headshot
Mark Blair

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 H Powers headshot
Jason Powers

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Diane Kathleen Whaley headshot
Diane Whaley

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 P Cecil headshot
Sean Cecil

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 Marie Murphy headshot
Kara Murphy

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Shipley Steinmetz headshot
Harry Steinmetz

DUI and DWI lawyer | 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 A Mclaughlin headshot
Martha Mclaughlin

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Orry-Leroy Baker headshot
Joseph Baker

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Andrew Yi headshot
Andrew Yi

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 E Harbeson headshot
Michael Harbeson

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Jay Wood headshot
Cory Wood

DUI and DWI lawyer | Sep 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nicole Hankins headshot
Nicole Hankins

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 M Moriarity headshot
Scott Moriarity

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Lynn Durflinger headshot
Natalie Durflinger

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 Andrew Sprute headshot
Gerald Sprute

Criminal defense lawyer | 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."

Kenneth W Blanford headshot
Kenneth Blanford

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 25

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked both with and against Dan. He is a strong litigator."

View All Endorsements
Teresa Groves headshot
Teresa Groves

Criminal defense lawyer

Nichole Danelle Fisher headshot
Nichole Fisher

Criminal defense lawyer

Mark Alan Ellingsen headshot
Mark Ellingsen

Litigation lawyer

Gina M Buskirk headshot
Gina Buskirk

DUI and DWI lawyer

Susanna Zannie Carlson headshot
Susanna Carlson

Criminal defense lawyer

Nicholas Ross Andrews headshot
Nicholas Andrews

Criminal defense lawyer

Daniel Negash Ajema headshot
Daniel Ajema

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Angelle Marie Gerl headshot
Angelle Gerl

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael R Frans headshot
Michael Frans

DUI and DWI lawyer

Sunni Young Ko headshot
Sunni Ko

Violent crime lawyer

Jason H Powers headshot
Jason Powers

Criminal defense lawyer

Diane Kathleen Whaley headshot
Diane Whaley

Criminal defense lawyer

Christopher Michael Small headshot
Christopher Small

Criminal defense lawyer

James Edmund Oliver JR headshot
James Oliver

Criminal defense lawyer

Martha A Mclaughlin headshot
Martha Mclaughlin

Criminal defense lawyer

Kara Marie Murphy headshot
Kara Murphy

Criminal defense lawyer

Scott M Moriarity headshot
Scott Moriarity

Criminal defense lawyer

Andrew Yi headshot
Andrew Yi

Criminal defense lawyer

Cory Jay Wood headshot
Cory Wood

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2015

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

2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2013

Level 5 Contributor, Avvo

2013

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

1995

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

1995

Best of 1995, Spicer's Printing

1995

Best of 1995, Graphic Design USA

1993

Silver Award, Northwest ADDYs

1993

Student Award Gold, Northwest ADDYs

1992

AIGA Trapeze Award, AIGA (Seattle)

Work Experience

2024 - Present

Founder/Managing Attorney, NextLaw PLLC

2013 - 2023

Founder / CEO, Puget Law Group LLP

2010 - 2013

Associate Attorney, Park Chenaur & Associates, Inc., PS

2008 - 2010

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney

2006 - 2008

Municipal Prosecutor, City of Federal Way Prosecuting Attorney

2005 - 2006

Contract Prosecuting Attorney, Snohomish County Prosecutor's Office

2004 - 2005

Rule 9 Legal Intern, Skagit County Prosecuting Attorney

2003 - 2003

Externship, King County Prosecuting Attorney Office

Associations

2015 - Present

Athletes for Kids (AFK)

Board of Directors, Member

2014 - Present

United State District Court - Western District of Washington

Attorney Member

2010 - Present

Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2008 - Present

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association

Member

2005 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Member

2013 - 2014

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2010 - 2012

King County Bar Association

Member

2010 - 2014

Citizens for Judicial Excellence (CJE)

Member

2010 - 2013

Washington State Trial Lawyers Association

Member

Sample of 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

Tacoma vs. A.M.

ARRESTED FOR DUI AND RECKLESS DRIVING = REDUCED TO TRAFFIC TICKET.

State v. S.P.

2ND DUI CHARGE IN 6 MONTHS = DISMISSED.

State vs. A.T.

DUI AND FELONY COCAINE POSSESSION: DRUG CHARGE DISMISSED, DUI REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING WITH A 12 MONTH DEFERRED SENTENCE.

State v. D.B.

charges dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

2005

Seattle University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2002

University of Washington -Seattle

BA - Bachelor of Arts, with Distinction

1992

Spokane Falls Community College

A.A.S.

Speaking Engagements

2015

BNI Weekly Business Luncheon

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

Discussion - DV Defense and Family Law

Domestic Violence and Criminal Defense

2013

South King County YMCA High School Mock Trial Competition

South King County YMCA High School Mock Trial Competition

1999

Seattle Toastmasters Luncheon

Graphic Design and Branding / Internet Industry

Publications

1995

Graphic Design USA Best of 1994-1995

Languages

English

Spanish

Activity

Avvo Rating

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