About Daniel Thomas
Daniel Thomas Hayward is an attorney specializing in personal injury and business law, practicing in Reno, Nevada. He has been a member of the Nevada State Bar since 1996, bringing over two decades of legal experience to his clients. Hayward is also licensed in Kansas and Missouri, with bar admissions in 1995 and 1994, respectively. As a partner at Dotson, Hayward & Vance, PC, located at 5355 Reno Corporate Drive, Suite 100, Reno, Nevada 89511, he plays a crucial role in the firm’s operations and client representation. Hayward earned his Juris Doctor with High Distinction from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1994. During his time there, he was a member of the Iowa Law Review, which supports his legal scholarship and excellence.
Prior to law school, he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Iowa State University in 1991. This educational foundation gave him a strong understanding of legal principles and their application in various contexts. His practice encompasses many legal issues, including personal injury and wrongful death cases, business and contract disputes, insurance matters, defamation, and product liability. Hayward has represented surviving family members in fatal trucking accidents, showcasing his ability to handle sensitive cases with compassion and expertise. He has also represented businesses and individuals in disputes with insurance companies, as well as professionals facing malpractice and nondisclosure claims. His experience includes serving as a retained expert witness in lawsuits involving uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, further highlighting his expertise in complex legal matters.
In 2012, Hayward was admitted to the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), a prestigious organization that recognizes experienced trial lawyers. He served as the President of the Reno Chapter, demonstrating his leadership within the legal community. Hayward holds an AV rating from the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory, evidence of his professional competence and ethical standards. He has been recognized as a top attorney in various publications, including Nevada Business and Nevada Lawyer, solidifying his reputation in the field. Beyond his legal practice, Hayward is actively involved in community service. Since 2011, he has served as volunteer outside counsel for Nevada Bighorns Unlimited, the Reno chapter dedicated to wildlife conservation.
In 2019, he became a volunteer mediator with the United States District Court inmate mediation program, mediating nearly 50 civil rights cases involving inmates and the State of Nevada. His commitment to youth development is evident through his involvement with the Reno High School Junior Interview Project and the SCCA/Tire Rack Street Survival teen driving program. Additionally, he volunteered for eight years with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada and coached U9-U15 boys’ soccer for six years. Hayward's diverse legal background and dedication to community service underscore his commitment to both his clients and the Reno community.
