Marissa Lelia Simmons

I am a professional costume designer in the film and television industry who experienced alleged unlawful acts in my working environment. As a Native American woman and enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe it was vital for me to seek justice in a partnership that included women and wo...men of color. I want to take the time to highly recommend and thank Marissa (Ms. Simmons) for giving me visibility through her extensive legal expertise and presence. It is imperative to have an attorney that is compassionate and understanding of alleged and reported issues of race discrimination, a hostile working environment, racial slurs (one of which I was called at the beginning of my employment), continuous and ongoing harassment, retaliation, exploitation, intimidation, protected whistle blower activities, wage and hour violations, as well as many other related issues. I believe the experience was also pervasive, and oppressive. I suffered greatly. Ms. Simmons understood that as her client I experienced severe trauma and was respectful in her communications and follow through. She also took the time to be sure I understood each step of our process. I believe she fought back hard against one of the largest employers. In partnership with my other attorneys from Payton Employment Law, PC she was highly successful in achieving a resolve outside of a courtroom, and prepared to do so in one. I am grateful that she easily saw the issues, and believed in helping me receive a form of justice. I believe you will be most fortunate to have her by your side. I remain grateful for her achievements. I remain grateful to her.