Licensed for 25 years

State UT

Acquired 1998

Status
Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Clayton A. Simms

Criminal defense Attorney at Salt Lake City, UT

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CFO Black Diamond Property Management

Faced with the scariest experience of my life

Faced with the scariest experience of my life. My family and I found the right lawyer after 4-5 consultations. Clayton Simms was that lawyer and we got the best possible outcome from a devastating situation. I did not feel rushed. Clayton took the time to answer our questions honestly and clearly no smoke screen. It was likely I would be found guilty and Mr. Simms worked with us to get the right outcome for the situation. This was a very serious offense. Clayton was professional and organized through the process of the 5-6 appearances. He was available and returned calls quickly. Clayton Simms worked thoroughly while providing sensitivity and intuitively guided me through the process providing timing, privacy and a clear defense. A deal was reached before trial and the minimum jail time and probation was achieved. With the stakes so high the wrong council would have taken away the life I enjoy today. Clayton was the right choice. I appreciate your efforts and experience Thank You !

About Clayton

Learn Clayton’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

90%

Criminal Defense. Internet Crimes, Murder, Distribution and Possession of Controlled Substances, including Marijuana, Oxycontin, Heroin, Cocaine or Illegal Prescription Drugs, Sex Offenses, Rape
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Other

10%

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Clayton A. Simms

9 Exchange Place, Suite 600

Salt Lake City, UT, 84111

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4.9 / 5.0

38 customer reviews

5 Star

95%

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1 Star

Posted by Michelle | June 7, 2022

CFO Black Diamond Property Management

Faced with a serious legal problem for my son, we researched and found Clayton Simms. He was communicative and experienced. We had great confidence in him, and he did not disappoint. We highly recommend Mr. Simms. You will not be disappointed. He knows the law and communicated all the available options to us. We had great success!!! (and the best possible outcome.)

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Posted by Jim | June 13, 2019

Faced with the scariest experience of my life

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Posted by Michael | April 10, 2019

Simply the best!

I was put in touch with Clayton after dealing with an attorney who I felt was not representing me well. From the onset, I believed that Clayton had my best interest at heart. During the time I was represented by Clayton he became more than attorney. He encouraged me when I was ready to give up and went above and beyond , handling matters not directly related to my case to assure that I received the best outcome. I owe my successes today to Clayton’s unwavering willingness to fight for me. If you ever find your self in need of representation, Choose Clayton and I am sure he will do the same for you.

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Posted by Alysa | January 17, 2019

Best exsperience ever

Clayton is the best lawyer I have had. Got my charges taken care of. I have the best exsperience working with him. It’s nice to meet an Attorney who actually cares. I would recommend him to any one. He will definitely have your back.

Posted by James | October 27, 2018

Wished I would have found him earlier

I took a plea because of a previous attorney’s advice that put me into a tailspin, even 15 years later the plea Continues to be problematic. Clayton was able to make things right and I have been able to have an otherwise good life. But the best thing about Clayton is that he really does care. Having hope is all part of the process on the trail of success.

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Posted by corey | July 7, 2018

Clayton Simms is an amazing attorney!

I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. Clayton was able to get my charges dismissed--he was by far the best candidate for my case. He is unbiased, positive, and determined to get everything taken care of in the courtroom. He seemed to truly care about me and was empathetic about my situation. He is well over qualified for the price he asks. I highly recommend hiring Clayton for his services, you will not be disappointed!

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Posted by Kolby | April 19, 2018

Best attorney ever

I was fighting 2 felony 3’s and 2 class A misdemeanors. I ended up with a class B. This guy went to bat for me and got me an incredible result. I’ve dealt with a lot of lawyers and this guy was the best. I highly recommend him. He’s worth every cent.

Posted by Brandon | July 11, 2017

Clayton did exactly as he said

My attorney Clayton had helped me right from the begging and did exactly as he promised. In April I was charged with possession of a concealed firearm, I explained to Clayton what had gone on during the traffic stop which had led to my charges and he promised to keep me out of jail and to help fight to keep my right to continue to legally purchase and own firearms. Clayton had fulfilled his promise and I personally plan on using Clayton in any legal cases because he made the most stressful time of my life easier to deal with and get through and kept his word.

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Posted by Tashia | May 3, 2017

Great Attorney

Clayton Simms was proactive and professional dealing with my husbands charges. He is knowledgeable and capable of representing his clients so they are treated fairly and get results.

Posted by anonymous | February 14, 2017

Extremely Satisfied!!!!

On behalf of my wife and myself, we would like to thank Mr. Simms for his great work. We had a criminal case in the Salt Lake City area from about 5 years back but had never taken care of. We currently live in the Los Angeles, Ca area and we were afraid of having to travel out of state. We picked Mr. Simms based on his experience and his accomplishments. We are are very grateful to him for his dedication to our case an his communication throughout the process. He was confident he could get us a favorable decision and he delivered big time. Mr. Simms got our Warrant Recalled and filed for a Request of Discovery because we had an older case. He was able to get our case Dismissed with Prejudice due to lack of evidence and our case can not be refiled. We also never had to travel to Salt Lake City to attend any court dates. We are blessed to have chosen Mr. Simms and we are very grateful to him. If your looking for quality legal representation I would highly recommend Mr. Clayton Simms.

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Posted by Matthew Bendheim | October 2, 2016

Hands down Utah's best attorney

Clayton "Show-time" Simms hands down is the best criminal defense attorney I have ever used. I was a convicted felon facing a lengthy prison sentence, with multiple severe charges. With a child on the way and my government job on the line Clayton used his expertise to get my violent felony DISMISSED. The District Attorney handling my case was stern, fierce and looking to put away for a long time. Clayton Simms saved my life. He was always available day or night and assured me that everything was going to be okay. Entering the court room it was evident Clayton was a highly respected, well liked, one of a kind attorney. Other attorneys, court officers as well as district attorney's paid homage to Clayton Simms. If I were to ever come in contact with the law again I would not want any other attorney representing me. Without a doubt Clayton Simms is Utah's best criminal defense attorney.

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Posted by Sarah | May 29, 2016

Mr. Simms is an amazing attorney!

Mr. Simms saved my husband from a 2nd degree felony, to which he had already confessed prior to retaining counsel. Mr. Simms analyzed all of the facts, the holes in prosecution's case, and carefully cross examined prosecution's witnesses to allow the truth to come to the surface for the jury to see. As friendly as Mr. Simms can be, he is an attack dog in the courtroom. When your family has everything on the line, that is exactly what you want! Someone who has your back, knows the law, thinks outside the box, and is not afraid to step on toes to let justice prevail.

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Posted by Maria | April 29, 2016

Best outcome possible for minor in possession

We did not know any attorneys in Utah and went by the reviews. Clayton immediately impressed me as personable and very sharp. After learning of a "minor in possession" charge, he asked questions on a minor's background that were right on. Unlike all other attorneys we talked to, he said that an arraignment is important and my son has to appear with him and make a positive impression. He also pointed out that the charges could be questioned and negotiations should start immediately. He appeared in court with my son and was able to negotiate a great deal for a "minor in possession" case. My son driver's license will not be suspended and he received a 6 months probation. We are very grateful to Clayton and would highly recommend him.

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Posted by anonymous | March 15, 2016

Could Be a Fine Judge Someday

Delighted to leave a review. Clayton Simms represented our son who fell in with boys I can only describe as being like Pinnocchio's friends. Merrily they all did this and that. (Our son had already confessed to all.) During court Clayton Simms announced he would take our son up the hill to let him explain to the man in charge how all he had done wrong (breaking and entering, stealing) had been done. Putting our son in a little bit of a position of power, instead of powerlessness. He gave our son the ability to help heal and solve that painful puzzle. And he gave the place he committed misdeeds a heads-up, a way to avoid other such mischief by others. Fine, fine lawyer, what every good judge welcomes in his courtroom---someone keeping his eyes on all-important things the judge himself could possibly miss: a child's sometimes odd and unique needs, a child's apparent and non-apparent reasons for his mistakes; and finally, a firm, basic assessment of proper blame---and possible, surprising, important, solutions. Recommended----one hundred percent!

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Posted by anonymous | February 18, 2016

DUI Defense

A member of my family had a first DUI, with a very high blood alcohol level. Mr. Simms was able to get the charge reduced to Impaired Driving, saving his driving license. He was very professional and was able to answer all of our questions. He always returned calls. I would rate him first class. His fee was very reasonable.

Posted by Marci | February 3, 2016

Clayton cares!

No one likes to be in a situation where you need an Attorney but if you or your loved one does - call Clayton Simms. We could not have had a better outcome in our case - it was a WIN - and it was all because of Clayton. Clayton is an expert in his field. Clayton understood our situation, dealt with us in a compassionate and caring manner and found the best way to represent us to insure the best outcome. We highly recommend Clayton Simms. From the very start we felt comfortable, safe and secure in his hands. We selected Clayton from his rave reviews but knew from the very first conversation with him about our case - he was the one we needed to see us through this. Thank you so much Clayton.

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Posted by Robert | January 20, 2016

Clayton is the best

week-Edit Loading... Like many people I met Clayton under the worst of circumstances. Faced with multiple felony charges I was desperate for someone to defend me and my family from what seemed like disaster. Clayton, with his humor, confidence , and passion for justice, made everything clear, and for the first time in weeks I was able to sleep. When all was said and done, my case was resolved with honesty and fairness as a few misdemeanors, and my family and I were able to return to our lives. If you want the best defense possible, Clayton Simms is your man.

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Posted by anonymous | January 20, 2016

If I could give him 10stars I would

He is the most awesome attorney that anyone can hire I was in a bad situation in a whole different state that I actually lived in they was trying to sentence me to prison and with the help of my attorney Clayton Sims I made it home safely back to My children and my infant child at the time With probation terms and conditions Please don't hesitate to hire him he is the greatest

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Posted by Franz | August 30, 2015

Review Clayton A. Simms

We hired Clayton for a very stressful situation in our Family. He listened very carefully to our case and started to take immediately action. He was very supportive. We would not have resolved our problem without his professional knowledge and personal attention. Thank you Clayton for saving our sanity.

Posted by anonymous | August 30, 2015

Clayton saved my life and proved my innocence.

False allegations were made against me, and I had no where to turn to. Clayton was referred to me by a family friend, and he literally saved my life. Facing false allegations when you know you are innocent is the most terrifying thing that has ever happened to me in my entire life. Clayton was honest, upfront, and most importantly, very fast in his defense in my name. Clayton was able to prove my innocence before I was ever booked, or had to face a trial. All I had to do was be completely honest, and trust Clayton and his advice/actions. If you have been wrongly accused of anything, I highly recommend Clayton Simms. Just be honest, and he will do everything in his power to prove your innocence as swiftly as possible. He is incredibly understanding, and 100% trustworthy. Thank you for everything Clayton, I will never forget everything you have done fore me.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Trial Attorney
Clayton Simms LLC
2001 - 2016

Trial Attorney
Salt Lake Legal Defender Association
1999 - 2001

Education

University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1997

University of Houston
Bachelor of Business Administration
1993

Associations

American Board of Criminal Lawyers
Fellow
2008 - Present

David K. Watkiss - Sutherland II American Inn of Court
Barrister
2003 - Present

Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
1998 - Present

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah
National Trial Lawyers Association
2016

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah
National Trial Lawyers Association
2015

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law
Super Lawyers
2015

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah
National Trial Lawyers Association
2014

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law
Super Lawyers
2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah
National Trial Lawyers Association
2013

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law
Super Lawyers
2013

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2012

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah
National Trial Lawyers Association
2012

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law
Super Lawyers
2012

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law
Super Lawyers
2011

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2011

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah
National Trial Lawyers Association
2011

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah
National Trial Lawyers Association
2010

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law
Super Lawyers
2010

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2010

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law
Super Lawyers
2009

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2009

Lawyer of the Year
UMBA Association
2008

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2008

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2007

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2006

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2005

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Utah Business Magazine
2004

View all awards

Speaking Engagements

Westminster College: Sexual and Dating/Domestic Violence on College Campuses
Ensuring Due Process in Title IX (Sexual Assault) Investigations
2015

Utah State Bar
Department of Professional Licensing (DOPL) and Criminal Law
2015

Utah State Bar
Anything you NSAy Can Be Used Against You: How Technology and Social Media Create Ethical, Professional, Civility and Confidentiality Issues.
2014

Utah Student Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Frank Discussion of Criminal Defense: A Lifestyle. A Calling. A Vocation
2013

University of Utah, Judicial Process Class
Criminal Law in State and Federal Court; Utah State Board of Pardons; and State and Federal Sentencing Guidelines
2013

Utah State Bar's Spring Convention
Ethics In Criminal Plea Bargaining
2012

University of Utah, Judicial Process
Criminal Law in State and Federal Court; Utah State Board of Pardons; and State and Federal Sentencing Guidelines
2012

Current Issues in Immigration
Criminal Law & Immigration
2010

What Every Civil Attorney Should Know about Criminal Law
Criminal Law for the Civil Attorney
2009

Utah State Bar's Fall Forum
Immigration & Criminal Law Issues
2009

Oh, The Places You'll Go!
The Day in a Life of a Criminal Defense Attorney
2005

MECHA Conference
Illegal Police Stops
2003

Criminal Law
Criminal Law and Illegal Searches & Seizures
2003

Basics of Criminal Law
Basics of Criminal Law
2003

I Fought the Law and I Won, DUI Defense
DUI Defense
2001

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (15)

Given (6)

Endorse Clayton

Philip Wormdahl

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I saw Clayton successfully defend an assault case in Salt Lake City and was very impressed by his courtroom demeanor and skills as a trial attorney. Since then, I have discussed trial strategy and other legal issues with him. I have found him to be very sharp and creative in his approach. I recommend Clayton without hesitation."

J. Edward Jones

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. We have worked together on two cases where we represented co-defendants with similar charges, including co-defendant's charged with aggravated murder. Mr. Simms has a strong knowledge of criminal law, and conducts his representation in a highly professional manner. Like myself, Mr. Simms one of the few lawyers in Utah who is qualified for appointments on death penalty murder cases. Mr. Simms is a good lawyer, and I am happy to endorse his work."

Preston Koerner

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I first met Clayton about 12 years ago while we worked in the same building. Although I'm a corporate lawyer, I picked Clayton's brain on trial advocacy and client defense, and I learned a lot about what makes him so good in his work. He's a thought leader in his space, and he knows the criminal justice system in and out. Any time I know of someone touched by the criminal system, I send them to Clayton, and he takes care of them. He always takes care of them."

Walter Bugden

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is an experienced attorney with a lot of trial experience. He is well respected by judges and prosecutors. He obtains great results for his clients."

David Pedrazas

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Clayton and I have worked together on cases. Clayton always does an exceptional job for his clients, and works well with other attorneys."

Michael Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Clayton. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Nathaniel Shafer

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Clayton Simms is a talented defense lawyer. He is one of the lawyers I consult when I have questions about the best strategy or tactics for a case. He knows so much about every phase of the criminal justice system. Your future is in good hands when you select Mr. Simms to represent you."

Josie Brumfield

Unknown Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Melissa Fulkerson

Unknown Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Russell Pietryga

Criminal defense Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Simms is an excellent attorney. I have worked on several matters with Mr. Simms over the years and I am impressed with his legal knowledge and how hard he works for his clients."

Lisa Douglas

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Howard Roitman

White collar crime Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joshua Baron

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Clayton is an articulate advocate. He brings common sense to bear on every case. At the same time, he understands the nuances of criminal law and procedure. He is an excellent lawyer."

Yossof Sharifi

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clayton is a reputable attorney with sharp, aggressive courtroom skills. I highly endorse him."

Christian Lassen

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Terrific lawyer."

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Clayton A. Simms

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