I am a navy veteran and a graduate of Berkeley Law School (Boalt Hall). For 30 years I have successfully fought for my clients at every court level in Washington, from municipal court to the Washington State Supreme Court. During this time, I have come to embrace certain ideals. I do not pick needless fights, I treat my opponents with respect, and I do not back down from a necessary fight. I adhere to the old Roman adage, “If you want peace, prepare for war.” To attain a favorable settlement, you must prepare the case for trial. I take the time to fully understand and investigate each client’s story so that a successful settlement can be reached, or a jury trial won. I apply these principles at Dixon & Cannon, Ltd., where I focus upon criminal defense, personal injury, and appeals.

Prior to co-founding Dixon & Cannon, Ltd., I was a senior trial attorney for a national insurance company, and was selected to serve in a specialized unit that focused on protecting individuals against fraudulent claims. I was also responsible for training other attorneys at the office regarding legal developments and current practices in this area of law. I now use the knowledge I gained working for insurance companies to ensure my clients are fairly compensated.

As a criminal defense attorney, first in public defense and then in private practice, I have successfully defended clients in hundreds of jury trials, bench trials, motions hearings and appeals. I recognize that for many of my clients, a shoplifting charge may be as devastating to their employment as a felony conviction, and treat each accusation against my clients with the seriousness it deserves. I have been invited to speak at legal conferences about search warrant challenges and the creative use of evidentiary rules to effectively tell our clients’ stories.

As an appellate attorney, I have obtained new trials or outright dismissals for clients convicted of various crimes, including DUI, robbery, vehicular assault, murder, VUCSA, three strikes offenses and sex offenses.

I am a graduate of the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College, an invitation only and nationally recognized continuing legal education program. I am a member of the Washington State Bar, the Federal District Court Bar, the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Washington State Association for Justice where I am an Eagle Member and have served on the Rules Committee. I also was selected to serve on the Washington State Bar Court Rules Committee, which is responsible for drafting new evidentiary and procedural rules for Washington courts. I have a 10.0 rating on AVVO and I am included on the “Super Lawyers” list compiled by Washington Law and Politics.

When not practicing law, I enjoy camping or taking part in multi-sport vacations with my wife and two sons. I also enjoy live jazz, single malt scotch, a good game of chess, and rousing conversation with friends and family.

As an attorney, I work with people going through difficult times. I consider it an honor to represent and guide my clients through challenging life circumstances. My clients enrich my life and it is gratifying to know I have made a difference in theirs.