Clayton A. Simms

Clayton A. Simms

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 27 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Salt Lake City, UT
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Unknown

9 Exchange Place, Suite 600, Salt Lake City, UT

About Clayton

Practice Areas

2

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

90%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in Utah for 27 years

State: Utah

Acquired: 1998

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices of Clayton A. Simms

9 Exchange Place, Suite 600, Salt Lake City, UT, 84111

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Clayton A. Simms's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

38 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (38) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 11 - 15 of 22 reviews | Recommendation

Posted by anonymous | January 20, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

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 pro...bation terms and conditions Please don't hesitate to hire him he is the greatest

Posted by anonymous | September 01, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

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 hone...st, 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.

Posted by Chris | May 12, 2015 | Criminal Defense

Clayton Simms review

I came to Clayton about two years ago with a slew of charges including six felonies. I was looking at doing some prison time of I didn't get into an alternative court program. There were few spots and Clayton got me into the felony program I wanted. Clayton worked with me every step of the way at eve...ry court appearance and would always keep me informed about what's going on and what to say. Now here I am two years later and all of that never happened, my record has been expunged completely with all the charges removed and I am a free man now with no criminal history whatsoever. I would have never imagined I would get to this point when I was sitting in jail two years ago and I owe a lot of that to Clayton. I highly recommend Clayton to anyone he has been phenomenal.

Posted by Steve | May 07, 2015 | Criminal Defense

Clayton did the impossible

My name is Steve, my son was brought up on serious felony robbery charges involving his girlfriend who was pregnant with my sons child. After my son and his girlfriend got into an argue meant, she asked him to leave the house,after he left he realized he left his wallet in her house. He tried to get ...back into her house but she wasn't answering the door. Thinking that she was just ignoring him, he kicked the front door damaging the door and climbed into her first floor window to see if she was there, and to get his wallet, which had his entire paycheck in it. He realized she wasn't' there, grabbed his wallet, and immediately left the house. Upon leaving, his girlfriends cousin came to the front door with her husband. She knocked on the door and my son answered and opened the door letting her in. They got into an argument over him being in the house. She then called the police, and pressed charges against my son,for burglary and an assault charge. She also was pregnant at the time. My son was charged with felony 2 burglary, 2 assault charges and a criminal mischief charge. He was facing 1 to 15 years on these charges. The DA wanted to hang my son for burglary and 2 assault charges against pregnant woman when all it really was, was an argument between my son and his girlfriend. Neither girl sought medical attention as my son never even touched the woman. Still, the DA would not give in and would not budge on the charges. Clayton advised us to play hardball and take this case to trial. To make a long story short, Clayton stood his ground and after 9 months, all charges were dropped. Clayton was great to work with. He was always there for us, he always returned my calls and always answered my questions. Clayton Simms is "the man". He is a great attorney, his prices were very fare and he even allowed me to pay him over time. This was such a difficult time for everyone involved, but throughout Clayton was always there for us. Not only is he an amazing attorney, he is a great, down to earth, patient and caring person. If you are in trouble with criminal charges, I strongly recommend Clayton Simms. My sons case was very complicated and Clayton handled it perfectly. Every move he suggested turned out to be the right move. I will never forget Clayton and his non matched socks that are his trademark. He is a superb lawyer and an even better human being. If you need a criminal lawyer, there is no one I would recommend more. Again Clayton, thank you for everything and May God bless you. Sincerely, Steve.

Posted by anonymous | January 22, 2014 | Criminal Defense

Lifesaver!

When my career, family, reputation, everything, was in the balance I needed someone I could fully trust. Clayton proved to be just that. He was clear, honest, personable, reasonable and I knew he would stand up for me like I deserved. I was falsely accused of a crime I was understandably terrified.... I've never thought I'd ever have to deal with something like that ever in my life! I didn't know what rights I had or what was the best course of action was. I knew I needed a good lawyer and found Clayton on this site. After meeting with him in person I knew it was a good match. He had great advice and was always professional yet personable to me, members of my family and members of the police department. When needed, he sent clear and powerful messages that made an impact. Having his name attached to my case was key in preventing charges being filed against me. I highly recommend him to you.

See All Client Reviews

Clayton A. Simms's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Clayton
Philip Laurence Wormdahl headshot
Philip Wormdahl

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 headshot
J. Edward Jones

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 D Koerner headshot
Preston Koerner

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 F Bugden Jr headshot
Walter Bugden

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 headshot
David Pedrazas

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 headshot
Nathaniel Shafer

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 E Brumfield headshot
Josie Brumfield

Unknown lawyer | Sep 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Melissa Fulkerson headshot
Melissa Fulkerson

Unknown lawyer | Sep 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Russell Stephen Pietryga headshot
Russell Pietryga

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 headshot
Lisa Douglas

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Howard Robert Roitman headshot
Howard Roitman

White collar crime lawyer | Oct 12

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joshua S. Baron headshot
Joshua Baron

Criminal defense lawyer | 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 headshot
Yossof Sharifi

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Terrific lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Mark J. Edwards headshot
Mark Edwards

Criminal defense lawyer

Martin T. Stolz headshot
Martin Stolz

Criminal defense lawyer

David R. York headshot
David York

Estate planning lawyer

Melissa Fulkerson headshot
Melissa Fulkerson

DUI and DWI lawyer

Morgan D Diment headshot
Morgan Diment

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

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

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah, National Trial Lawyers Association

2016

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense, Utah Business Magazine

2015

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense, Utah Business Magazine

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah, National Trial Lawyers Association

2015

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law, Super Lawyers

2014

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law, Super Lawyers

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah, National Trial Lawyers Association

2013

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah, National Trial Lawyers Association

2013

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law, Super Lawyers

2012

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah, National Trial Lawyers Association

2012

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2012

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law, Super Lawyers

2012

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense, Utah Business Magazine

2011

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law, Super Lawyers

2011

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2011

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah, National Trial Lawyers Association

2011

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense, Utah Business Magazine

2010

Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Utah, National Trial Lawyers Association

2010

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense, Utah Business Magazine

2010

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law, Super Lawyers

2010

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2009

Super Lawyer in Criminal Law, Super Lawyers

2009

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2009

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense, Utah Business Magazine

2008

Lawyer of the Year, UMBA Association

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

Legal Elite in Criminal Defense, Utah Business Magazine

Work Experience

2001 - 2016

Trial Attorney, Clayton Simms LLC

1999 - 2001

Trial Attorney, Salt Lake Legal Defender Association

Associations

2008 - Present

American Board of Criminal Lawyers

Fellow

2003 - Present

David K. Watkiss - Sutherland II American Inn of Court

Barrister

1998 - Present

Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

Education

1997

University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1993

University of Houston

Bachelor of Business Administration

Speaking Engagements

2015

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

2014

Utah State Bar

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

2013

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

2012

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

2010

Current Issues in Immigration

Criminal Law & Immigration

2009

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

2005

Oh, The Places You'll Go!

The Day in a Life of a Criminal Defense Attorney

2003

MECHA Conference

Illegal Police Stops

2003

Criminal Law

Criminal Law and Illegal Searches & Seizures

2003

Basics of Criminal Law

Basics of Criminal Law

2001

I Fought the Law and I Won, DUI Defense

DUI Defense

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
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