Remembering Our Founder
From Humble Beginnings
Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon is a state record-setting firm that first began in the mid-1970s with Arthur Swanson. He established the firm in a former house marked by a leaky roof and a territorial rooster who took a keen interest in greeting our clients. When a pot of coffee was brewed, the circuit breaker to the copy machine flipped. It was a humble beginning, but one that allowed us to build a practice grounded in empathy and professionalism. When we rebuilt our office in 1989, we designed it specifically to resemble a house, symbolizing our commitment to creating a family-like environment for our clients and staff.
This evolution, from modest beginnings to our current top-rated Seattle personal injury practice with its private lobby and ample parking, reflects our ongoing commitment to maintaining the values instilled by Art Swanson – empathy, professionalism, and tireless advocacy for our clients.
Our History
Through the decades, we’ve welcomed countless clients and families into our practice. Yet, even when their cases were over, we continued to remain a part of their lives. We’ve attended graduations, birthday parties, and even had dinner with them. Why? Because we consider all our clients to be friends and family. It’s what Arthur Swanson believed, and it’s what we continue to practice.
In 50 years, our law firm has never lost sight of where we came from and the people we serve. Even after our founder’s passing, our lead attorneys, Todd Gardner, Peter Meyers, and Dylan Cohon, have kept Art Swanson’s values and legacy alive in each case we handle and every client we help. This has resulted in some of the largest record-setting injury settlements and awards in Washington State history. It’s also resulted in incredible friendships along the way.
1972
Art Opened the Law Firm
Art Swanson opened his own law firm by converting a small three-bedroom house into an office at the current location.
1981
Todd Saw Art Present at a Seminar
As a recent law school graduate, Todd Gardner met Art when attending a legal seminar. Todd knew at that moment he wanted Art as a mentor, describing Art as having a kind, approachable, "favorite uncle" type of demeanor.
1982
Todd Joined the Firm
After a lot of persistence and months of effort, Todd was able to persuade Art to let him join Art's solo practice.
1989
Office Rebuild
The office at the original site was rebuilt in 1989.
2008
Peter Joined the Firm
Peter Meyers, whose key practice areas include catastrophic auto accidents, traumatic brain injuries, defective products, and medical malpractice, joined the firm in May 2008.
2019
Dylan Joined the Firm
After 10 years as a medical negligence defense attorney, Dylan Cohon joined the firm in June 2019.
2022
Construction & Remodeling Completed
Showing remarkable timing after the pandemic, construction on an additional structure and remodeling of the old building was completed.
Out-prepare the Competition
Our Philosophy
Out-Prepare and Outwork
Our philosophy centers on two key principles: out-preparing and outworking. We pay attention to every detail of your case, ensuring we know it inside and out. Our team puts in the time and energy needed, always staying one step ahead. It's not just about how much time we spend; it's about making every minute count. We are dedicated to fighting for you with everything we've got, ensuring you get the strong legal support you deserve after a serious accident or injury.
Greater Compensation for Our Clients
No amount of money can ever undo the harm you’ve suffered. Yet, you and your family shouldn’t suffer unnecessary financial burdens because of another person’s negligence. Our law firm stands committed to getting our clients the money they rightly deserve after an injury or accident. Our approach is about being thorough and persistent, making sure we explore every option to get you the best financial outcome. We stand up for you, ensuring that those responsible for your injury are held accountable and that you receive the compensation necessary to help with your recovery and losses.
Direct Client Communication
At Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC, we value your time, and it shows. We know that your energy and efforts are better spent focused on your recovery and on rebuilding your life after a serious accident. That’s why we take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and follow up with you throughout the legal process. Our team, consisting of dedicated trial lawyers, paralegals, and support staff, prioritizes building relationships with our clients. It’s been that way since the beginning, and it remains a core value we’re proud of.
Working with Compassion
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