Barry Thomas Simons

Barry Thomas Simons

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 54 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Laguna Beach, CA
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI

260 St Anns Drive, Laguna Beach, CA

About Barry

Biography

Practice Areas

1

Practice Area

DUI and DWI 100%

55 years | 6,000 cases

100%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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 California for 54 years

State: California

Acquired: 1972

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Barry T Simons

260 St Anns Drive, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Barry Thomas Simons's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

12 Client Reviews

5 star (11) 4 star (1)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by Mike | November 26, 2017 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Client long time

I have retained and recommended Barry Simons for myself and others on several occasions recently. He is tops in his field. He is very experienced in what works and what doesn’t. He did not apply some one-size-fits all approach that did not apply to my situation and back fired. Rather he and his team ...worked with me to find out what will be the best approach. He tailored my defense to fit the circumstances, people, and issues. Barry is well respected in the legal community and his word went a long way in influencing the outcome my case for the better. He emphasized the positive aspects to be had in treating my case with justice and respect with a goal of rehabilitation rather than punishment. Barry and his team know their way around the DMV as well and advised me to avoid a hearing due to priors in my past. He has some of the best paralegal and assistant attorneys. Together they functioned as a well coordinated team and kept my case on track. They were always available to brief me on what is going on and answer any questions I might have in a considerate and professional manner. I highly recommend Barry Simons for the best outcome in your case as well.

Posted by anonymous | August 28, 2017 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

BEST LAWYER EVER

My experience with the Law Offices of Barry T Simons was truly amazing. About a year ago I was charged with 2 felonies of Dui with great bodily Injury and a hit and run. After bailing myself out from jail the following day, I thought my life was over. I was filled with despair and discouragement.... After doing much research in criminal attorneys and attending countless consultation meetings, I came across SuperLawyers.com. It was there where I found Barry and requested a consultation meeting via website. I got a call the same evening from Barry asking me to come in the following day. After meeting him and talking much about my case, I hired him. That was the best decision of my life. Barry has gone above and beyond in fighting for me throughout this case. He was always easy to get a hold of and always opened his office doors for me if needed. His paralegal, Arial, was also great with assisting me in what I needed. Barry even went to the extent of hiring me a separate personal Injury lawyer to assist me with working out a civil restitution agreement with the victim, because he felt it wasn't his circle of competence in that field and wanted me to get the best advice possible and told me to pay him back later in life, what kind of lawyer is that honest and kind?! He showed up to every court date and was punctual. Through Mr. Simons efforts, I went from facing four years federal prison to formal probation with 42 days of Home Confinement with the approval of going to work,school, and other court approved activities. I truly believe none of this would be possible without him by my side.To say I am eternally grateful for Barry T. Simons help would be an understatement. BEST LAWYER EVER!

Posted by anonymous | April 9, 2017 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

The very best

Mr. Simons and his team were excellent in defending my case, especially given the complexities around my immigration status / work permit. They were knowledgeable, thorough and very professional, and made sure to keep me informed through every step of the process. In addition to Mr. Simons' excellent... credentials, I was particularly grateful for his team's responsiveness, always quick to answer each and every question or concern I had no matter how trivial it may have seemed. I could not have asked for better representation during this stressful time, and was glad to have them on my side.

Posted by anonymous | July 15, 2013

Above and beyond

I first met Barry Simons ten years ago when I was midway through medical school. At the time, I had been charged with a felony DUI, which I feared could have abruptly ended my aspirations of becoming a physician very early in my career. Barry guided me through the complex legal process, from the crim...inal proceedings to DMV hearings, via various creative resources to deal with my specific situation. As a result, he helped to minimize the legal ramifications I had to face. With Barry’s help, I completed medical school on schedule and went on to become an interventional cardiologist, which is what I practice today. Throughout the years, Barry has continued to provide guidance when needed, for example, answering questions on professional applications regarding disclosure of information. He has tirelessly been an advocate for me and has always remained sensitive to my primary goal, which is to be able to practice medicine. I cannot thank Barry enough for his assistance; without him, I truly do not think I would be in my position today.

Posted by anonymous | July 10, 2013

Very Professional!

Mr. Simons and his office provided me with a great deal of help. I was charged with petty theft recently and Mr. Simons was able to bargain with the DA to give me a DEJ. There isn't really much more to add. Everything was extremely smooth and professional; he always kept me informed of my situation. ...I am profoundly grateful for his office's service and would recommend him to anyone.

See All Client Reviews

Barry Thomas Simons's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Barry
S Joshua Macktaz headshot
S Joshua Macktaz

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the pleasure of interacting with Attorney Simons on a social media platform on all issues related to DUI/DWI defense. He is as knowledgeable and as experienced as any other lawyer I have encountered and I endorse Barry highly."

Mehran Ron Chini headshot
Mehran Chini

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Richard Todd Rosenstein headshot
Richard Rosenstein

Unknown lawyer | Sep 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Simons is a skilled and respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients"

Richard Scott Lawson headshot
Richard Lawson

DUI and DWI lawyer | Sep 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"What more can be said about Barry. He is the premier DUI Defense Lawyer in California, and that says a great deal! He is a skilled litigator and negotiator. His team is next to none. You are well-served with his office on your side."

Michael Aaron Goldstein headshot
Michael Goldstein

DUI and DWI lawyer | Sep 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I fully endorse DUI attorney Barry Simons. He is a nationally-recognized expert in DUI defense and has over four decades of experience aggressively fighting for the legal rights of his clients. His track record of success is unmatched and he is well-respected among his peers in the legal industry."

Ronald Daniel Hedding headshot
Ronald Hedding

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I fully endorse lawyer Barry Simons. He is dedicated to his clients and a respected member in the legal industry."

Phillip Wayne Goff headshot
Phillip Goff

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Barry is clearly outstanding in the profession."

John William Thornton headshot
John Thornton

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jon Bryant Artz headshot
Jon Artz

DUI and DWI lawyer | Sep 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Barry is a great trial attorney and an expert on legal issues such as the reasonableness of forcing a blood draw. He was creative in taking a case which he won on behalf of his client, that the procedures used by a police agency in O.C. violated the Fourth Amendment by requiring blood and not allowing the statutory choice of blood or breath. A true constitutional scholar."

Lynn Gorelick headshot
Lynn Gorelick

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brett D. Schandelson headshot
Brett Schandelson

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"My experience with Barry is through the National College for DUI Defense, where he is a highly respected member. I have also met and seen Barry present at numerous DUI related CLEs around the country. I highly recommend him as DUI attorney."

Zaki Muhammad Ali headshot
Zaki Ali

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"There isn't much that I can say about Barry Simons that would give his excellent reputation any more merit. I am happy to endorse him, but its not endorsements that motivate an attorney like Barry. Its his clients and the fight for their rights. He is a tireless advocate and strong and powerful presence when they need it most. California needs an attorney like him. Other attorneys need an attorney like him. He is happy to share his wealth of knowledge with us. That's kind of a rare thing these days. I gladly endorse his work."

Okorie Okorocha headshot
Okorie Okorocha

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Barry is one of California's leading authorities on DUI defense."

James Morris Balagia headshot
James Balagia

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"What an honor to endorse my friend and mentor Barry Simons as one of the best criminal defense attorneys in the United States. Barry is one of the driving forces nationally in trial strategy, jury analysis and cutting edge representation of those charged with a criminal offense. Barry has the trial experience, legal knowledge and a total dedication to our field that you need next to you in a courtroom. I have attended numerous seminar presentations by Barry and have always gained insight that improved my courtroom performance. Barry has a reputation for the highest ethical standard in our industry and he demands excellence in his staff and of himself. Without hesitation I encourage you to make Barry your first choice in the courtroom. Feel free to contact me at [email protected] with any additional questions. Jamie "DWI Dude" Balagia, San Antonio, Texas."

W. Troy McKinney headshot
W. McKinney

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Barry Simons is one of the best DWI lawyers in the country. Having been Dean of the National College for DUI Defense, Barry exemplifies professional excellence in the defense of his clients and promotion of the profession. If I was facing a DWI charge in California, Barry would be at the top of a very short list of lawyers I would consider to represent me or a loved one."

Victor Wallace Carmody Jr. headshot
Victor Carmody

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have personally known Barry Simons for 20 years as a friend and associate in the National College of DUI Defense.We have worked together on several DUI programs and publications of national application to the practice of DUI defense.I know him to be of the highest moral character and a true genius in the defense of his clients. He is a stalwart in the truest meaning of the term and I count him as a close friend."

Edward L. Fiandach headshot
Edward Fiandach

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Barry is one of the preeminent DUI/DWI practitioners in the nation. Further, Barry is undoubtedly the most technologically savvy attorney in the nation when it comes to practicing in this area. I would not hesitate to have him represent myself or a loved one."

J. Burkhardt Beale headshot
J. Beale

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 07

Relationship: Other

"I have known Barry Simons for more than 15 years through the National College for DUI Defense. Barry is one of the top DUI lawyers in the country and has led the defense of DUIs in CA. He also has taken the time to help train other attorneys so that they may better defend their clients as well. Barry knows what he is doing, and is able to explain the issues to both a judge or a jury when defending someone. Burk Beale"

Peter Gerstenzang headshot
Peter Gerstenzang

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 06

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Barry Simons is a nationally recognized DUI defense attorney. My practice is in New York, but I have had the pleasure of working with and learning from Barry Simons. He is a lawyers lawyer. He generously shares his knowledge and expertise with DUI defense lawyers from all over the country. In addition to his skill and competence, he is a truly caring person who fights for his clients with all his heart. Barry has been honored and recognized by many DUI defense organizations. Most recently he served as the Dean of the National College For DUI Defense, the largest organization of its kind in the country."

Stephen L Jones headshot
Stephen Jones

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Barry is one of the best lawyers I have ever come across."

View All Endorsements
Daniel Paul Flores headshot
Daniel Flores

DUI and DWI lawyer

S Joshua Macktaz headshot
S Joshua Macktaz

DUI and DWI lawyer

Marlo Parago Cordero headshot
Marlo Cordero

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Aaron Goldstein headshot
Michael Goldstein

DUI and DWI lawyer

Ronald Daniel Hedding headshot
Ronald Hedding

DUI and DWI lawyer

Peter Francis Iocona headshot
Peter Iocona

DUI and DWI lawyer

Gene Edward Dorney headshot
Gene Dorney

Criminal defense lawyer

Victor Wallace Carmody Jr. headshot
Victor Carmody

DUI and DWI lawyer

Mindy H McQueen headshot
Mindy McQueen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael Jon Fremont headshot
Michael Fremont

DUI and DWI lawyer

Donald Gray Drewry headshot
Donald Drewry

DUI and DWI lawyer

William C. Head headshot
William Head

DUI and DWI lawyer

Darryl Wayne Genis headshot
Darryl Genis

DUI and DWI lawyer

Paul Richard Burglin headshot
Paul Burglin

DUI and DWI lawyer

Alan Castillo headshot
Alan Castillo

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2013

Kuwatch Award for Lifetime Achievements in DUI Defense, California DUI Lawyers Association

1999

Board Certification In DUI Defense, National College for DUI Defense (ABA Approved Certifying Organization)

Work Experience

1971 - Present

Senior Attorney, Law Offices of Barry T. Simons

Associations

2009 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Dean Emeritus

1995 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Founding Member

1995 - Present

California DUI Lawyers Association

Board of Directors

1985 - Present

South Orange County Bar Association

Board of Directors

2007 - 2008

National College of DUI Defense

Dean

2001 - 2002

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Co-Chair DUI Committee

1995 - 1997

California Attorneys for Criminal Justice

Co-Chair - Misdemeanor Practice

1990 - 1992

Orange County Bar Association

Former Director

1990 - 1991

South Orange County Bar Association

President

Sample of Legal Cases

Illinois v. Lidster (2004) 540 U.S. 419

Reversed

Stogner v. California

California Supreme Court Reversed

Baker v. Gourley

Court of Appeals Overturned DMV Suspension

Nelson v. City of Irvine , et al.

Class Action Lawsuit against Irvine Police upheld

Robertson v. Zolin

DMV Suspension Set Aside

See More Legal Cases

Education

1999

National College For DUI Defense

Board Certification

1971

New York Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

1968

American University

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2012

Orange County Criminal Defense Bar Assn., Continuing Legal Education Seminar

"The Laws Of Nature -v- The Laws Of Man

2011

California State Bar Association Annual Convention, Long Beach, Ca. 9/18/2011

How To Use Science In Your Practice

2009

Ultimate DUI Defense: Strategies for the Courtroom Warrior

Turn Your Client into a Patient and Win - Medical Defenses to DUI

2009

Annual California State Bar Conference

"How To Effectively Present Medical Defenses that Win",

2008

Mastering Scientific Evidence Dallas

Cross Examination of the People's Expert"

2007

Jury Insight Project

Juror Persuasion

2006

International Assn. of Chemical Testing Experts

"The Defense Perspective"

2006

California State Bar Conference

DMV - Don't Get Made - Get Even!

2006

California DUI Lawyers Association

Latest Law Changes & Sentencing Update

2005

Rules Of The Road

"Final Argument"

2005

National College For DUI Defense

"Opening Statements"

2005

California State Bar Conference

"Duece-A-Rama"

2005

California DUI Lawyers Association

"Taking On The DMV In 2005"

2004

National College For DUI Defense

"Using Technology In Closing Arguments"

2004

NACDL Los Vegas

Bring Your Own File Workshop

2004

California State Bar Conference

"Closing Argument The Code Of The West"

2004

California Attorneys For Criminal Justice

"Breath Test Challanges To Alcosensor IV

2003

National College For DUI Defense

"Making Mountains Out Of Molehills"

2003

California State Bar Conference

"DUI Represntations and Practices"

2003

California Attorneys For Criminal Justice

"Title 17 Compliant Breath Testing"

Publications

2009

California Drunk Driving Law Author

2009

Champion, National Assn. of Criminal Defense Attorneys (May 2009) "Challenging the Blood Test for Alcohol", B. Simons, R. Moore

Languages

Spanish

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