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Jonathan Simms
About Jonathan
Biography
Jonathan A. Simms is the managing partner of The Simms Firm, PLC, with a distinguished background in criminal law. He began his legal journey as a prosecutor in Philadelphia, where he tackled complex cases involving narcotics, firearms, and sexual assaults, quickly earning a reputation for his thorough preparation and professionalism. His experience in the Major Trials unit laid a strong foundation for his legal acumen. Following his time in Philadelphia, Attorney Simms was recruited by the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, where he focused on felony litigation. Transitioning to criminal defense, he has become known for his fierce cross-examination skills and ability to connect with juries. His practice includes defending clients in significant narcotics and white-collar crime cases, with media coverage from outlets like the Wall Street Journal. Recognized as a “rising star” by SuperLawyers Magazine and a “Top 100” trial attorney by the National Trial Lawyers Association, Attorney Simms has also been honored as a “Top Attorney” in criminal defense by Northern Virginia Magazine.
Practice Areas
7
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
33%
21 years
DUI and DWI
20%
21 years
Federal Crime
20%
21 years
White Collar Crime
10%
21 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in District of Columbia for 17 years
State: District of Columbia
Acquired: 2008
No misconduct found
Licensed in Virginia for 18 years
State: Virginia
Acquired: 2007
No misconduct found
Licensed in Pennsylvania for 21 years
State: Pennsylvania
Acquired: 2004
No misconduct found
Location
The Simms Firm, PLC
11325 Random Hills Road, Suite 360, Fairfax, VA, 22030
The Simms Firm, PLC
2016 Goose Creek Road, Suite 106, Office: 540-895-8088, Waynesboro, VA, 22980
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Jonathan Simms's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
39 Client Reviews
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Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Showing 1 - 5 of 11 reviews | Responsiveness
Posted by Lori | December 12, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Phenomenal Attorney
Mr. Simms is by far the best attorney I have ever had to represent me. I was charged with a petit larceny charge, that could have cost me my entire life. It was a “wrong place, wrong time” kind of circumstance. He drove 4 hours to represent me, and that alone, shows what kind of attorney he is. He c...
Posted by anonymous | October 02, 2020 | Hired Attorney
Outstanding Lawyer
Jonathan Simms is an amazing attorney. He is very experienced and has knowledge about many different legal principles, cases, and issues. He is easy to reach and responds quickly to emails. I read dealing with an as serious legal issue, but I felt at ease after talking with him. He started to work ri...
Posted by anonymous | May 19, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Wouldn't recommend
Mr.Simms took a case , (that in his defense) that few lawyers have knowledge of. I think I could have looked harder for a more experienced lawyer that knew a more about my type of case. It's a Federal Analogue Act case . So he did his due diligence of homework . Theres a couple things that I'm disap...
Posted by Joan | March 26, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Great Attorney
I can honestly say I doubt you would find a more dedicated and knowledgeable attorney. Mr Simms was extremely helpful in eliminating many charges and reducing the remaining few charges against my son. What was looking like nightmarish charges with a possible 15 year sentence, has thankfully been r...
Posted by anonymous | May 23, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Outstanding Defense Lawyer and Professional Firm
Mr. Simms was referred to me from a family friend. I called him with what I deemed an emergency situation, and within an hour of the phone call, we had an appointment to meet. After our initial meeting, I knew this was the man I wanted for my family situation. He knows the law and explains it to y...
Jonathan Simms's Lawyer Endorsements
"I highly recommend Mr. Simms. Jonathan is one of the pre-eminent attorneys in Northern Virginia, and he is well versed and comfortable in all aspects of trial and litigation. He obtains terrific results for his clients and is a force to be reckoned with. I highly recommend his services."
"Jonathan is an excellent litigation attorney who is dedicated to client success."
"Jonathon Simms is an excellent attorney with an unparalleled combination of experience and knowledge. I endorse him fully."
"An earned reputation for excellence! Attorney Jonathan Simms is a prominent personal injury, serious vehicular accidents and criminal defense lawyer in the Virginia and Washington, DC metropolitan area. He has a rising profile nationally with numerous awards and accolades and a media and television presence. He is a people's lawyer. I endorse this lawyer."
"Jonathan Simms is a tireless advocate for his clients. His attention to detail and fearless advocacy makes him an incredible lawyer."
"Mr. Simms is an excellent advocate!!"
"I endorse this lawyer. Jonathan's reputation for excellence is well-deserved. He is a highly knowledgeable attorney and very committed to his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Jon Simms is an excellent lawyer. He routinely handles both state and federal cases in all courts in the Northern Virginia area. He is a skilled trial attorney and negotiator. I highly endorse Mr. Simms in the field of criminal defense."
"Jonathan is an excellent attorney and experienced litigator. Simply put an outstanding advocate to have on your side."
"Jonathan is a excellent attorney and knows the ins and outs of criminal defense, in both State and Federal Practice. I endorse this lawyer!"
"Jonathan is a great lawyer who works hard and fights for his clients. I have seen him argue well in court, and his clients always appear satisfied with the outcomes of their cases."
"Well-respected and diligent attorney."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Jonathan since 2004 and he has proven himself as an excellent and well prepared attorney."
"Attorney Jonathan Simms is a thoughtful, savvy attorney with a firm understanding of the legal world of northern Virginia in both the state and federal courts. He is aggressive at trial and I have never seen him back down from a court battle. I endorse him without reservation."
"Excellent lawyer. Well respected."
"Mr. Simms has the respect of his peers and the confidence of his clients. I would happily recommend him to represent a client in Northern Virginia."
"Jonathan is a very intelligent attorney. He knows the statutes and has a great handle on relevant case law. Jonathan is always well prepared and knows every aspect of his clients' cases. He is an aggressive and zealous advocate for each and every one of his clients."
"Jonathan is one of the most experienced federal defense lawyers in this area. He handles more federal cases than any other attorney that I know. He is knowledgeable, extremely diligent, and caring. He is a standard for others to match. Absolutely recommended!"
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Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2021
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2020
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2019
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2018
Top Lawyer, Washingtonian Magazine
2018
Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine
2017
Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine
2016
Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine
2016
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers
2016
Top 100 Trial Attorney, National Lawyers Association
2015
Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine
2014
Top Lawyers, Northern Virginia Magazine
2014
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2014
Top 40 Lawyers Under 40, American Society of Legal Advocates
2014
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers
2006
Award of Excellence, Philadelphia District Attorney's Office
Work Experience
2011 - Present
Managing Partner, The Simms Firm, PLC
2010 - 2011
Attorney, Bose Law Firm
2008 - 2010
Associate, Rich Rosenthal Brincefield Manitta Dzubin & Kroeger, LLP
2007 - 2008
Trial Attorney, Office Of The Attorney General, District Of Columbia
2004 - 2007
Trial Attorney, Philadelphia District Attorney's Office
Associations
2017 - Present
Litigation Counsel of AmericaFellow
2015 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
2014 - Present
Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
2014 - Present
Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Criminal Law Section
2013 - Present
Old Dominion Bar Association
2013 - Present
National Trial Lawyers Association
2013 - Present
American Society of Legal Advocates
2008 - Present
Northern Virginia Black Attorneys Association
Virginia State Bar
Alexandria Bar Association
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
Sample of Legal Cases
United States v. Niles
Petition Dismissed
United States v. Jharia
All Charged Dismissed
Commonwealth of Virginia v. Davis
Not Guilty
Education
2004
Howard University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2001
Radford University
BS - Bachelor of Science
N/A
Syracuse University College of Law
Speaking Engagements
2014
Private Practice Seminar
Criminal Law
N/A
Criminal Law Roundtable
Criminal Law
Languages
Spanish
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
Is it child abuse to slap your child across the face?
18 Jun 2018
Q&A
Will probation be revoked?
15 Jun 2018
Q&A
Do I have to appear in court for a class 3 misdemeanor?
15 Jun 2018