Clayton C. Smith

PRO

Clayton C. Smith

also known as Clay Smith

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 17 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Dallas, TX
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Domestic Violence, Violent Crime

3300 Oak Lawn Ave.,, Suite 600, Dallas, TX

Virtual Consultation Available

About Clayton

Biography

Clayton Smith. Experienced & Highly Rated Criminal Defense Attorney. Former Prosecutor. 214-317-4532

Clayton Smith. Criminal Defense Attorney. Former Prosecutor. Call 214-317-4532

DWI or legal issues, contact Clayton Smith. Former Prosecutor. 214-317-4532

Clayton Smith. "Best Criminal Assault Attorney in Dallas.” - former client. Call 214-317-4532

Clayton Smith. Criminal Defense Attorney. Former Prosecutor. Call 214-317-4532

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 50%

17 years

50%
DUI and DWI 25%

17 years

25%
Domestic Violence 20%

20%
Violent Crime 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2024 2023 2022
...
+ 8
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2021 2020 2019
...
+ 4
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 17 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 2008

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Location

Law Office of Clayton Smith

3300 Oak Lawn Ave.,, Suite 600, Dallas, TX, 75219

www.claytonsmithlaw.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Clayton online.

Clayton C. Smith's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

136 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (136) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 18 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by MARK | March 05, 2026 | Hired Attorney

Attorney of Choice

Clayton Smith is the Attorney you want to represent you. He thoroughly knows the court system and how to obtain your best results. He listens to what you have to say and is always available, always professional. There are no surprises because he explains what to expect and always exceeds expectations.... If you need an Attorney, do not hesitate to consult with and use Clayton Smith asap. You will not be disappointed!

Clayton Smith

Replied last March 18, 2026

Thanks Mark! So glad we could get such great results on your cases.

Posted by Jiovany | May 16, 2024 | Criminal Defense

GREAT LAWYER

Great lawyer, very professional got my case dropped. Would recommend clayton he knows what hes doing.

Clayton Smith

Replied last August 05, 2024

Thanks Jiovany! So glad we could get your felony case DISMISSED.

Posted by Elizabeth | March 04, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

AMAZING RESULTS - NOTHING SHORT OF A MIRACLE!!

Thanks to these reviews and word of mouth referrals from other inmates, we hired the best attorney for my son! I can truly say that our experience with Clayton exceeded our expectations since we first met him during consultation. He took the time to listen to really understand our situation. Clayt...on didn't judge our son based on what he found but got to know him based on what we told him and by visiting with him. You need to know who you're defending to be able to make it personal and really defend your client. Our son was charged with Agg Robbery and his so called public "defender" was pressuring him to sign for 15 yrs because he said that the DA would not budge because police records had specific information. The public defender judged my son immediately & even told us -if he was there, then he did it-. He didn't even give us a chance to explain anything about my son. We found out later, his public defender had been previously been a judge! Don't just settle, get the best attorney the first time! I asked the public defender for "all" of my son's documents, I personally read all of them and took them to Clayton. He immediately looked at everything during consultation, answered all our questions, asked questions about my son to get to know him and talked to us about possible scenarios. He didn't judge, he just wanted to help. We were so impressed from consultation that we decided to hire Clayton on the spot. He was God sent for sure. His fee was within reach and even helped us with a payment arrangement. Clayton was very professional, caring, responsible and always on time! He knows the right people and knows how to work with them to get you the best results for your situation. He was always upfront and honest but also made us feel a sense of security. Clayton would keep us updated every step of the way. He made it a point to also keep our son informed after every court visit by visiting him in jail or by video. If we had questions, he didn't take long to respond. My son also felt secure and felt like he had someone on his side who was fighting for him. We found out that the police records did not contain the specific information that his public defender was using to pressure my son to sign 15 yrs was not the case at all. Clayton fought every step of the way, he was patient, worked with the DA diligently and was able to get my son a rehab program and 8 yrs probation...nothing short of a miracle! Don't settle for anything less for yourself or your loved one. Hire Clayton, he's the best attorney for your money and your/loved one's freedom! We can't thank God enough for putting Clayton in our path.

Clayton Smith

Replied last March 04, 2019

Thanks for the great review! I am so glad we could get the best results possible in your son's case!

Posted by Vanessa | March 19, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

We still can't beleive the amazing results.

From the beginning Clayton explained our options in detail. He was kind and honest to work with. I never felt like he wasn't doing his complete best in helping us. His knowledge and experience in working with the judges and DA was of the utmost value. We were looking at 4 years and he was able to get... us down to a few months of drug treatment and back on probation. There's never enough words of gratitude when someone is able to give you years back from someone's life! We are very satisfied with working with Clayton and highly recommend him.

Clayton Smith

Replied last March 19, 2018

Thanks for the great review! I am so glad we were able to get your brother the help he needed and avoid prison.

Posted by Terri | August 29, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Simply The Best

It was not looking good for my boyfriend he was facing going to TDC for 10 years for probation violation. Due to Mr. Clayton Smith expertise , dedication and much communication he was able to get that 10 year reduced to 4 years. We are truly grateful for your hard work. Thank you so much

Clayton Smith

Replied last August 29, 2017

Thanks for the excellent review. Just to clarify, he was facing up to 20 years in prison. The original plea offer was 10 years, we were able to convince the DA to go down to 4 years with credit for all his back time. (the Judge later told me he would have given him a lot more years).

See All Client Reviews

Clayton C. Smith's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Clayton
George Cave Johnson Jr. headshot
George Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clay has quickly gained the reputation as one of the best criminal lawyers in DFW. His experience as a prosecutor gives him an upper hand in crafting the best possible defense. I strongly endorse him."

Terrance Breard Downs headshot
Terrance Downs

Unknown lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have know Clay for 6 years. Cool, calm, and collected, and an overall good dude!"

Roberto Cañas headshot
Roberto Cañas

Criminal defense lawyer | May 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clayton is stand up guy who really knows his way around the courthouse. His experience really serves his client's well. The fact that he is well-respected at the courthouse helps him get things done for his clients."

Craig William Stango headshot
Craig Stango

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Thomas Duncan Ashworth headshot
Thomas Ashworth

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clayton Smith is an excellent criminal defense lawyer practicing in Dallas and the surrounding areas. I have known Mr. Smith both as a prosecutor and a defense attorney for over ten years. He has a sharp mind, is a hard worker, and is an excellent trial attorney. Anyone facing serious charges would be well served to hire Mr. Smith."

Ryan Joseph King headshot
Ryan King

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clay Smith does great work. He knows the courthouse inside and out and does wonders for his clients. I endorse him wholeheartedly."

Meredith Suzanne Behgooy headshot
Meredith Behgooy

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clay Smith is an excellent attorney. He truly cares about his clients and their cases. I would highly recommend him as an attorney."

Willie Stephen Graves headshot
Willie Graves

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Smith is a smart lawyer who dispenses smart analysis. He is a valuable contributor to this forum. I endorse him."

Margaret Angolo Ongele headshot
Margaret Ongele

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 19

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Clay and I have worked on opposite sides several times. He's great to work with because he knows his stuff and maintains a cordial attitude, which greatly benefits his clients. I endorse this lawyer."

Greggory Michael Gallian headshot
Greggory Gallian

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Bret W. Schmidt headshot
Bret Schmidt

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is very knowledgeable and provides a great service to AVVO users in answering their questions both thoroughly and with great insight."

Benton Williams II headshot
Benton Williams

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Lilian Demonteverde-Hoats headshot
Lilian Demonteverde-Hoats

Domestic violence lawyer | Sep 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Stephen Anthony Nicholas headshot
Stephen Nicholas

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clayton and I know each other from AVVO & from the assistance he has selflessly provided for many in need of answers. His answers are always direct, to the point, and with compassion for the questioner's predicament. He and I generally agree with each others answers and I know he puts thought, knowledge, and reason into each one, and maybe a little research, as well. He has my endorsement and I would send him any client that I had in the Dallas-Ft.Worth Area."

Mark Hendrickson headshot
Mark Hendrickson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 20

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brandon Derrel Luce headshot
Brandon Luce

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clay is one of the most respected lawyers in the Metroplex. He will use his skills and experience on both sides of the justice system to zealously represent his clients."

Demarcus Ward headshot
Demarcus Ward

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 17

Relationship: Co-worker

"Clayton is an excellent lawyer. I have known him for years and had the pleasure of working with him on several cases. He is attentive, honest, and results-oriented."

Timothy Patrick Sommers headshot
Timothy Sommers

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 14

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Smith and I worked together in the Dallas District Attorney's Office. He was one of the best prosecutors in the office and has a good reputation in the legal community as a hard-working and knowledgeable attorney."

Nancy Elizabeth Ohan headshot
Nancy Ohan

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Taylor Scott Ferguson headshot
Taylor Ferguson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Clayton has experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney which ensures he knows the law and is effective in the courtroom."

View All Endorsements
James Ralph Aulbaugh III headshot
James Aulbaugh

Criminal defense lawyer

Roberto Cañas headshot
Roberto Cañas

Criminal defense lawyer

Craig William Stango headshot
Craig Stango

Criminal defense lawyer

Thomas Duncan Ashworth headshot
Thomas Ashworth

Criminal defense lawyer

Brian Poe headshot
Brian Poe

Criminal defense lawyer

Lisa Fox headshot
Lisa Fox

Criminal defense lawyer

Eric Puente headshot
Eric Puente

Immigration lawyer

Ryan Joseph King headshot
Ryan King

Criminal defense lawyer

Daniel Allen Lewis headshot
Daniel Lewis

Criminal defense lawyer

Martin L. LeNoir headshot
Martin LeNoir

Criminal defense lawyer

Meredith Suzanne Behgooy headshot
Meredith Behgooy

Criminal defense lawyer

Margaret Angolo Ongele headshot
Margaret Ongele

Immigration lawyer

Kelly Elaine Mcmahan headshot
Kelly Mcmahan

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Greggory Michael Gallian headshot
Greggory Gallian

Criminal defense lawyer

Bret W. Schmidt headshot
Bret Schmidt

Criminal defense lawyer

Amanda Kay Branan headshot
Amanda Branan

Criminal defense lawyer

John M. Gioffredi headshot
John Gioffredi

DUI and DWI lawyer

Stephen Anthony Nicholas headshot
Stephen Nicholas

Criminal defense lawyer

Kathryn Mary Holton headshot
Kathryn Holton

Criminal defense lawyer

Mark Hendrickson headshot
Mark Hendrickson

Juvenile law lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2021

Best Criminal Defense Lawyer, D Magazine

2018

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2017

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2014

Top 100, The National Trial Lawyers

Work Experience

2014 - Present

Owner, Law Office of Clayton Smith

2009 - 2014

Assistant District Attorney, Dallas County District Attorney

2008 - 2009

Assistant County Attorney, Hunt County Attorney's Office

Associations

2014 - Present

Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Member

2014 - Present

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Member

Education

2008

Texas Wesleyan University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2005

University of Texas

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Languages

English

Spanish

Activity

Top Contributor

Clayton earned significant contribution points in 2021.

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution