Jared C Simmons

Based on my experience, I would not retain Jared Simmons again, particularly for trial representation. If you are considering this firm, I would ask very specific questions about trial strategy, billing, and how advance retainers and unused funds are handled. I hired Mr. Simmons to represent me at... trial. The hearing lasted approximately 40 minutes and ended unsuccessfully. Most troubling to me, Mr. Simmons chose to waive cross-examination of the opposing party without discussing that strategy with me beforehand. His examination of me was brief, while statements from the opposing party that I believed warranted challenge went unchallenged. When I raised these concerns afterward, Mr. Simmons defended his strategy and maintained that cross-examination had been unnecessary. I also questioned the billing: 16.6 hours totaling $6,073 for preparation and representation. When I continued to challenge both the performance and billing, Mr. Simmons responded in writing, “I am extremely confident my representation will withstand any scrutiny.” My concerns didn't end there. The firm's $3,927 refund of my unused retainer was returned when I deposited it. I notified Mr. Simmons and asked him to investigate but received no response. More than four months later, I contacted him again and only then received a response. The refund was eventually replaced and paid. I ultimately filed a complaint with the State Bar of Arizona. After completing its investigation, the Bar informed me that Mr. Simmons had agreed to participate in a State Bar diversion program designed to address the types of problems that led to my charge.