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Barry Thomas Simons

DUI and DWI Attorney at Laguna Beach, CA

4.9   12 reviews
  • Licensed for 51 years
    State CA
    Acquired 1972
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Barry

Learn Barry’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area
  1. DUI and DWI
    100%

    52 years, 6,000 cases

 

I am proud to lead a team of four dedicated lawyers, each trained in DUI defense.  Together, they have litigated thousands of DUI cases in courtrooms throughout Southern California and before the DMV.  They have taught and written extensively on the law and science of DUI and collectively represent the most respected and recognized leaders in DUI defense.  The team is made up of four (4) lawyers, specially trained paralegals and investigators. Our firm also provides access to the top experts in forensic toxicology and Pharmacology who closely work with us to analyze the important scientific issues that are relevant to your DUI case.

Photos and videos

DUI and Women
Nystagmus Field Sobriety Test
Portable Breath Testing
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Contact Barry

Similar lawyers nearby

Barry T Simons
260 St Anns Drive
Laguna Beach, CA, 92651

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  12 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by Mike | November 26, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired 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.
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Posted by anonymous | August 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired 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!
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Posted by anonymous | April 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired 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.
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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 criminal 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.
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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.
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Posted by anonymous | August 21, 2012
My Deepest Gratitude for a Blessed Outcome
To Barry Simons and his extraordinary team of attorneys, I cannot begin to express how grateful and blessed I am for the outcome of my case. Prior to my incident, I have never had to hire an attorney for anything, and quite honestly, thought I never would have to. In circumstances like these where you admit to being responsible, you are also blindsided and more scared than ever of what lies ahead. At the very beginning of this emotional time, my only concern was to find legal representation. I couldn't tell you what the key was in finding the right lawyer, or even what makes a good lawyer. However, I can tell you that choosing one carefully based on their merits, as well as their reassurance is what I believe led me to find Barry Simons. Naturally, no promises can be made, and nothing is ever guaranteed, especially for DUI charges. After my incident, I sought further counsel, including consultations with five other firms in addition to Barry Simons to compare and contrast. Barry was the first attorney I consulted with, and he had spent an hour with me going over the possibilities of my case. I had never been in any serious trouble before, and I was financially unprepared for what the fight would cost. But, nonetheless, Barry put me at ease by being honest with my situation and making me feel like I wasn't a criminal. Truthfully, the reassurance of his having my best interest was the big motivator in my final decision to proceed. Barry and his team used a series of tactics to explore all angles of my case. What could easily be overlooked by anyone else, Barry and his team discovered and examined even further. Their knowledge of criminal defense, as well as their excellent communication and persuasive skills made it possible for every portion of this matter to be considered. Barry kept me well informed throughout my case via correspondence and explained to me his motives for the steps he and his team were going to initiate, as well as the potential consequences. With such unsettling circumstances, it makes a world of difference to find an attorney that will exceed your expectations. In the end, the DUI charges were dropped and I was given an exchange plea of admitting to a Wet Reckless; I took the plea and the case concluded after 9 months. I feel as though a huge burden had been lifted off my shoulders, and an enormous weight removed from my heart. I've grown so much from this experience, not only personally, but professionally and spiritually. I have a renewed sense of peace and continue to show my positivity and gratitude every single day. I will never forget your efforts, and know that if a good friend of mine or family member should need assistance in the future, I will refer you, and only you. With deepest thanks, kindest regards, abundant blesssings to you and yours, and infinite prosperity... Anonymous
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Posted by James | July 30, 2012
The Best of the Best
A few years ago I found myself in a position where I could end up spending several years in prison, needless to say I was in serious need of a top notch defense attorney. After a small amount of research it quickly became clear that Barry was the best of the best. That day my family and I went to see him. After I explained what had happened Barry quickly got to work on the case, constantly keeping me informed of everything that I needed to do, and of the progress he was making. Barry, Alan, and the rest of the team were, without question, on point every step of the way. Since then my life has made a 180 degree turn for the better, and I attribute this largely to the incredible job done by Barry and his team in protecting my freedom, and giving me a second chance. Thank you guys. Everything you've done is greatly appreciated. j
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Posted by kyle | September 8, 2011
Fantastic Service, Great Representation
Peter, with Barry Simons Law Firm, maintained a clear head and kept me well informed of possible outcomes for the different set of circumstances I faced. Not only did he obtain a favorable bargain for my case, he never once wavered at the possibility of future litigation. If you are facing a DUI, the last thing you want is an attorney that is scared to go to trial on your behalf. I felt confident that my representation gave me an advantage over the other side due to his dedication to see the case through. Because of Peter's persistence and dedication, my license was not suspended, my fines were lowered and the DUI was gone. Fantastic result, fantastic attorney, fantastic Law Firm. A+
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Posted by anonymous | September 20, 2010
Rating for DUI Lawyer
I would recommend Barry Simons to anyone going through the tramatic trial of a DUI. Barry Simons and his staff were instrumental in getting me a fair sentence for my Felony DUI. I couldn't have imagined putting my fate in the hands of any other DUI Attorney. He was extremely thourough and personal in every matter on my case.
Posted by anonymous | August 5, 2010
Eternally Grateful
Barry, I had to write you and tell you how thankful and grateful to the services I received from you and your staff during my last legal entanglement. You and your colleagues have renewed my faith in that competent attorney’s, who truly care about the welfare of their client’s and families do exist. . This was not my first requirement for an attorney. The circumstances this time had far more reaching legal penalties than the prior two. Despite the increased potential penalties, you and your staff were able to better the outcome as compared to my previous two experiences. You truly listened to my wants, needs, and fears. Your honest and knowledgeable approach towards handling this case gave myself, and family the peace of mind that all of us desperately needed during that extremely trying time. I need you to know that my relationships with family, friends and in the professional world have remained in tact and positive. Your ability to envision and address issues before they arise are obviously due to your exceptional capabilities, gained from a long standing career and your critical relationships within the legal world. Additionally, your amazing staff and the size of your practice have squarely placed your reputation in the Orange County area as THE relationship to have when you are in desperate need of an attorney you can trust your immediate entire future with. Unfortunately, this is a rare commodity in today’s legal maze. Your client commitment became crystal clear to me when you hand delivered important documents that truly led to the incredible positive outcome in my case. When I envision the potential alternative outcomes is when I can sincerely say from the bottom of my heart, Thank You! With unending gratitude and deepest respect from myself, and family. Anonymous
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Posted by Dwight | March 7, 2010
Barry T. Simons , Laguna Beach, Calif.
Mr. Simons, his associates, and staff, were very through, professional, and personally supportive to my family, to get us past very difficult times in our lives. His court demeanor, preparedness, and unrelenting determination to secure the best possible results with our cases was reassuring to my family, as he guilded us through the legal system. With his extensive background, as well as the support of his in-house associates, and staff, we were given both personal affromation, and confidence, that our cases would result in the best and fairest results available. From Mr. Simons' office we witnessed only complete and calculated devotion to our problems, and even anticpated problems, and had solutions at the ready, when when needed. Without hesitation, I would personally recommend Mr. Simons and his complete office to anyone, and would never think twice about it.
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Posted by anonymous | July 29, 2011
Thanks a million!!!
Field Test was .12 and station test was .09. I had a prior unrelated charge and was on informal probation when the alleged violation occured. After, 10 months of continous effort the Law Office of Barry T Simmons was able to get my DUI dropped to a "wet reckless" with 3 years informal probation. Im very thankful for the the Team of Lawers at Barrys office for their extra efforts as I didnt end up in jail due to the prior. Total Win in my eyes. Thanks Everyone!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Senior Attorney
  • Law Offices of Barry T. Simons
  • 1971 - Present

Education

  • National College For DUI Defense
  • Board Certification
  • 1999
  • New York Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1971
  • American University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1968

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
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Dean Emeritus
  • 2009 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Founding Member
  • 1995 - Present
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Board of Directors
  • 1995 - Present
  • South Orange County Bar Association
  • Board of Directors
  • 1985 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Dean
  • 2007 - 2008
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Co-Chair DUI Committee
  • 2001 - 2002
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • Co-Chair - Misdemeanor Practice
  • 1995 - 1997
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Former Director
  • 1990 - 1992
  • South Orange County Bar Association
  • President
  • 1990 - 1991
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Kuwatch Award for Lifetime Achievements in DUI Defense
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Board Certification In DUI Defense
  • National College for DUI Defense (ABA Approved Certifying Organization)
  • 1999

Publications

  • 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
  • 2009

Speaking Engagements

  • Orange County Criminal Defense Bar Assn., Continuing Legal Education Seminar
  • "The Laws Of Nature -v- The Laws Of Man
  • 2012
  • California State Bar Association Annual Convention, Long Beach, Ca. 9/18/2011
  • How To Use Science In Your Practice
  • 2011
  • Annual California State Bar Conference
  • "How To Effectively Present Medical Defenses that Win",
  • 2009
  • Ultimate DUI Defense: Strategies for the Courtroom Warrior
  • Turn Your Client into a Patient and Win - Medical Defenses to DUI
  • 2009
  • Mastering Scientific Evidence Dallas
  • Cross Examination of the People's Expert"
  • 2008
  • Jury Insight Project
  • Juror Persuasion
  • 2007
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Latest Law Changes & Sentencing Update
  • 2006
  • California State Bar Conference
  • DMV - Don't Get Made - Get Even!
  • 2006
  • International Assn. of Chemical Testing Experts
  • "The Defense Perspective"
  • 2006
  • Rules Of The Road
  • "Final Argument"
  • 2005
  • California State Bar Conference
  • "Duece-A-Rama"
  • 2005
  • National College For DUI Defense
  • "Opening Statements"
  • 2005
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • "Taking On The DMV In 2005"
  • 2005
  • California State Bar Conference
  • "Closing Argument The Code Of The West"
  • 2004
  • California Attorneys For Criminal Justice
  • "Breath Test Challanges To Alcosensor IV
  • 2004
  • National College For DUI Defense
  • "Using Technology In Closing Arguments"
  • 2004
  • NACDL Los Vegas
  • Bring Your Own File Workshop
  • 2004
  • California Attorneys For Criminal Justice
  • "Title 17 Compliant Breath Testing"
  • 2003
  • California State Bar Conference
  • "DUI Represntations and Practices"
  • 2003
  • National College For DUI Defense
  • "Making Mountains Out Of Molehills"
  • 2003
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (32)
Given (15)
Endorse Barry
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | 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"
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Barry is clearly outstanding in the profession."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Barry is one of California's leading authorities on DUI defense."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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"
DUI and DWI Attorney | 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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Barry is one of the best lawyers I have ever come across."
View more endorsements
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense