Todd W. Gardner

When Todd Gardner met Art Swanson in the 1980s, they recognized that they shared the same singular passion. They wanted to create a firm that helped and nurtured Washington individuals and families through their darkest times. By focusing on creating long-lasting relationships with their clients, they quickly grew into one of Washington State’s most formidable and highly respected law firms.

Under their leadership, the firm gained a reputation for being a powerhouse, known for its ability to handle complex and challenging cases with remarkable skill and success. Together, they significantly influenced the practice of personal injury, medical negligence, and wrongful death litigation in the state.

Proven Success in the Courtroom

Todd Gardner's track record of success in the courtroom is unparalleled. He has won millions for his clients and their families, and has resulted in verdicts and awards exceeding $1 million in 20 cases he has brought to trial. His achievements include securing the largest medical negligence verdict in Washington State, a record-setting $50 million, surpassing his own previous record.

He has also achieved significant verdicts in premises liability and road design defect cases, as well as the first million-dollar verdict for the death of a child in the state.

Additionally, Todd has negotiated the state's two largest single personal injury settlements. A remarkable highlight of his career was in March 2022, where, as a lead counsel in a complex trial involving two deaths and three disabling injuries, he secured a groundbreaking $150 million verdict.

Through his exceptional legal skills, tireless dedication, and compassionate approach, Todd continues to be a pillar of strength and advocacy for his clients, upholding the firm's commitment to justice and setting high standards in personal injury law.

Nationally Recognized Legal Excellence

Todd’s dedication and expertise have often been recognized on both the local and national stage. In 2004, the Washington State Trial Lawyers Association honored him with the Washington Trial Lawyer of the Year Award, now known as Washington State Attorneys for Justice. This accolade was followed in 2015 with the Washington Trial Lawyer of the Year Award by the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). For over a decade, he has been named a “Super Lawyer” by Washington Law and Politics, showcasing his sustained excellence in the field.

Todd's memberships in prestigious legal circles, such as the Inner Circle of Trial Advocates, The Damage Attorneys Round Table, ABOTA, and the American Academy of Trial Attorneys, reflect his esteemed status in the legal community.

He is also a member of the Washington State Association for Justice (WSAJ), the National Trial Lawyers Association, the American College of Trial Lawyers, Public Justice, the Washington Bar Association, and the King County Bar Association. His legal skill and ethical standards have earned him Martindale Hubbell’s Pre-eminent AV rating, the highest peer review rating for legal ability and ethics.