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.
