Bryan J. Swerling, a distinguished figure in the legal
arena, traces his roots back to South Carolina, where his early fascination
with the law took root. Influenced by his father, Jack Swerling, a renowned
trial lawyer and member of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, Bryan
spent formative summers working in his father's esteemed firm. Jack Swerling's
mentorship kindled Bryan's own enthusiasm and passion for the law.
During his time at Syracuse University, Bryan laid the
groundwork for his legal journey, majoring in Political Science and History. An
unexpected turn led him to Los Angeles, where a summer studying screenwriting
at UCLA's prestigious film school under the guidance of screenwriting luminary
Richard Walter transformed into a flourishing career in Hollywood. Bryan worked
with industry giants, including John Davis, Quentin Tarantino, Robert
Rodriguez, George Clooney, Harvey Kietel, Salma Hayek, Bettina Viviano, Ray Ruff, Denny Diante, and Patrick Peach.
Bryan's extensive production and development career left an
indelible mark on film, television, and music projects, from notable films like
"From Dusk Till Dawn" and "Suicide Kings" to television
shows like CBS's "Maggie Winters" and WB's "Movie Stars."
Amidst his Hollywood endeavors, Bryan, while producing a
film with Bettina Viviano, delved into the legal aspects of the entertainment
industry. Rekindling his fascination with the law, he decided to pursue a Juris
Doctorate in New York.
His law school journey at New York Law School saw Bryan
excel in entertainment law studies, becoming a star member of the Moot Court
Honor's Team. He broadened his legal horizons with international studies in
Florence, Italy, and immersed himself in various legal facets, including work
at the Queens County District Attorney's Office.
Bryan's third-year trial advocacy course became a turning
point, solidifying his passion for courtroom advocacy. Co-authoring a book published by Penguin/Putnam on
communication skills, "Always Talk to Strangers," further showcased
his diverse talents.
Post-law school, Bryan joined prominent litigators Lenore
Kramer and Denise Dunleavy, working on impactful personal injury and medical
malpractice cases with a focus on women's issues. In 2005, he established his
own law practice, concentrating on personal injury and civil rights law. Since
then, Bryan has secured over 40 million dollars in settlements and verdicts, representing
clients against major corporations and insurance companies.
In 2012, Bryan obtained the second largest settlement in the State of New York in the category of Premises Liability-Negligent Repairs at $3,250,000.00. In 2013, he achieved the second largest verdict in the State of New York in the category of Intentional Torts at $1,415,000.00 and in 2015 Bryan settled another intentional tort case for $3,000,000.00. Most recently, in 2023, Bryan settled an auto accident case for $2,325,000.00 and a Dram Shop/Assault traumatic brain injury case for $10,500,000.00 making it one of the largest personal injury settlements in New York State for the year.
Recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2013, Bryan's
accomplishments extend to being selected by The National Trial Lawyer's Top 100
and featured in the New York Law Journal's Top Verdicts and Settlements. Over the course of his career, Bryan's cases have been featured in or on The New York Post, NBC News, International Business Times, The Daily Mail, TMZ, Perez Hilton, CBS, The Daily News, and Fox News.
Bryan's commitment to aggressive advocacy and belief in America's judicial system drive him to treat every client as family, echoing the values instilled by his
father.
