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Christopher Michael Sims

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also known as Chris Sims
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Avvo Rating8.1
  • Burien, WA
  • Licensed for 7 years
  • Free consultation
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About Christopher

Chris graduated from Central Washington University with Honors and went on to earn his Juris Doctorate Degree from Seattle University-School of law. 
 
He is more than just a criminal defense attorney or even a litigator but rather a trial attorney. Chris offers thorough representation along with careful attention to the personal impact such situations can have on his clients and their families. He embraces the opportunity to go to trial and fight for his clients.  He has represented clients on felony offenses to misdemanor charges in courts accross the state. 
 
Chris is a compassionate and aggressive advocate for his clients. He enjoys working with and for his clients helping them throughout the legal process. He is upfront and honest which his clients appreciate. He evaluates every case with an eye for trial and provides clients with a realistic set of expectations.
 
 

 https://www.woodsimslaw.com/

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Practice areas

OtherSex crimeDomestic violenceDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 30%

    Since February 2012, I have represented hundreds of criminal defendants throughout King and Pierce county at every stage of the proceedings from arraignment to trial, and post conviction review hearings. I believe that to be effective at representing clients in criminal proceedings it requires not only knowing the laws and procedure but also being a credible threat to go to trial. I bring that experience and knowledge as well as credibility to be effective at every stage of the proceedings.

    9 years

  2. DUI and DWI: 30%

    The DUI laws in Washington are some of the strictest in the nation. I work closely with my clients to manuever them through the courts from time of arraignment, pre-trial, trial, sentencing, and post conviction review hearings. My approach provides clients with a realistic expectation of the strength of their case if they choose to go to trial versus the benefits of any negotatiated deals.

    9 years

  3. Domestic violence: 25%

    There are a number of factors involved with a domestic violence related offense. There are potential lose of your firearm rights, no contact orders, freedom, and money. This area of law requires an attorney such as myself who is willing to push the case to trial and require the government to prove their case.

    9 years

  4. Sex crime: 10%

  1. Expungement: 5%

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Contact

Wood Sims Law, PLLC

645 SW 153rd St. STE C2
Burien, WA, 98166

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    WAActive201305/10/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers64
    Legal guides1
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    10 Best DUI Attorneys for Client SatisfactionAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2015
    Associate of the monthStewart MacNichols Harmell2014
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    AssociateStewart, MacNichols, Harmell, Inc., P.S.2013 - Present
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Tacoma Pierce County Bar AssociationMember2016 - Present
    Washington Defender AssociationMember2013 - Present
    American Institute of DUI/DWI AttorneysMember2015 - 2015
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Seattle UniversityJD - Juris Doctor2012
    Central Washington UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts2009
    Highline Community CollegeAA-Associate of Arts2007
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Alumi of Cascade Middle School (White Center, WA) Career presentationsThe path to Lawyering and Law School2014
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    City v. L.N. (Not Guilty both counts Reckless Driving and Criminal Trespass 2nd DegreeNot Guilty on both counts
    Not Guilty on one count of Driving While License SuspendedNot Guilty

    Reviews

    (15)
    5 Star
    		93%
    4 Star
    		7%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		0%
    Review Christopher Sims

    Got the ball rolling!

    Posted by

    Got to say not knowing first hand what I was up against he made things seem very simple. Not only did he help clear my name he also made sure people were held accountable. When I first contacted Chris I had a warrant and a couple pending charges. Not only did he set in motion contact with prosecutors but he got this all rolling and handled almost faster then I knew I needed a lawyer. He was very professional and straight forward with me and always let me know where we stood as far as are next move. And did I mention he got the case dismissed and I never even stepped foot in a courtroom. I know who I'll be reaching out to and referring to people in need of good a defense lawyer......
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Chris Sims brought my case to an positive outcome.

    Posted by

    My first impression of Chris was good when he helped me avoid the dept of lic suspension I was Sold. He is a rock solid performer. who was able to guide me to a solution that included no further jail time.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    THANK YOU CHRIS

    Posted by

    Having a court case can be a stressful time. I found Chris to be well versed in criminal law and extremely comfortable in walking me through my case. He is very understanding, kind and was passionate about resolving my case. I developed a wonderful rapport with him and felt supported throughout the entire experience. Chris went above and beyond all my expectations. I was kept well informed by him and his communication skills were astounding. There is NO one else I rather have represent me!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Better Call Sims!

    Posted by

    I consulted Chris about a traffic infraction I had gotten a few months ago. After talking and having him explain everything to me I decided to retain him to defend me in this case. He was very honest and upfront with me about everything which made me feel good about the whole situation. After retaining his services everything went better than I could of hoped for. He ended up fully getting my case dismissed and I never even had to go in front of a judge. I drive for a living so keeping a moving violation off of my record is huge but never even having to miss work to do so was just incredible. I am very glad I called sims to help me. If I ever need help again he's who I'll be calling and recommending to anyone I know that needs help.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Handled my cases with care and considertation

    Posted by

    Mr. Sims took the time to make sure I understood the legal ramifications of my actions and my situation. He brought realistic perspective to the table and broke things down in a way that I could easily understand the legal issues. He is a great attorney and I would recommend him to anyone who ever needs a high caliber professional to handle their legal needs.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Great lawyer

    Posted by

    He guided me on how to get my license back. I couldn't of done it without him. Thanks Chris
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Helpful with first-time legal issues

    Posted by

    My first, and fortune willing, last instance of needing legal representation was a crushing emotional burden. I wasn't sure where to start and how to move forward. Thankfully from day one, Chris help navigate and simplify the process as it unfolded to conclusion and resolution. I would highly recommend Chris to anyone in need of an excellent attorney that is involved and informative.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Professional 5-Star Lawyer

    Posted by

    I reached out to Chris Sims for a consultation. He agreed to meet me the next day, which I think is amazing. He spent the better part of an hour helping me understand my situation and discover the things I didn't know about my case. I am impressed with his knowledge and care. If you want the best defense, I believe he is the only lawyer you want by your side. I will recommend everyone to Chris Sims for any legal matter they may have. I look forward to working with you soon. Thanks so much Chris!
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Highly recommended

    Posted by

    Chris was able to successfully help me through a very difficult time; always working towards the best possible outcome while being upfront and realistic about what could happen. Facing a hefty amount a jail time due to a revoked deferred prosecution & new DUI charge he was quick to respond to even my most challenging questions and made dealing with the court systems far less stressful. I highly recommend Chris.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Laura Johnson's DUI Court Case in Lakewood, WA

    Posted by

    My name is Laura & I retained Mr. Chris Sims to represent me as my Attorney w/ regards to a DUI case in Lakewood Municipal Court 10/2015. I was sent to Nisqually Jail on 10/24/15. I had retained Mr. Sims to represent me & I have nothing but wonderful things to say about him. He took my case; within several days I had met with him at the Nisqually Jail, he had me out of Jail & was able to get me admitted to Schick Shadel Hospital for treatment for Alcohol Addiction. I have been to 3 other 28 day In-Patient Treatment Centers for my Alcohol Addiction, apparently these facilities did not provide me the tools to deal with my disease in the "outside world" of these facilities. Mr. Sims felt as though these facilities DID NOT address the root of the problem as to WHY I drink, so he suggested that I try another venue & treatment to deal with my Addiction so he recommended Schick Shadel Hospital in Seattle, WA area. I agreed, so within 3 days, Mr. Sims had secured a bed at Schick Shadel, got me a tremendous deal for payment for the hospital, we spoke to the Judge on 10/30/15 @ 10:00am via televised TV meeting @ the Nisqually Jail & he was able to convince the Judge if he were to put me into Mr. Sims custody he would guarantee that he would PERSONALLY take me from the Jail to Schick Shadel Hospital that day & be there by 1:00pm. The Judge was kind enough to agree to that decision of having me go to this "Counter Conditioning Program," which is a treatment center that is a fast, intense & effective way of dealing with my addiction without having to struggle against the intense & immediate craving to drink. This program has completely changed my life for the positive! Since I walked into Jail & into this treatment center at Schick, I came out of there a completely different person with a much better & positive outlook on life, but most of all without a desire to ever to pick up a drink! Since my release from the hospital on 11/9/15, I have had several incidences where in the past I would have taken a drink to deal with my legal & personal issues, etc. but the aversion to ever drink whatsoever is so strong, I can't believe that this is actually working! I have Mr. Sims to give credit to & THANK for saving my life. He took the time to find an addiction facility that I had not been to before & a treatment that I had not tried before & he felt that trying another avenue would be extremely helpful in kicking this addiction/disease. I trusted Mr. Sims completely & he did NOT steer me wrong, he was able to get me into treatment immediately; he personally drove me from the Jail to Shick Shadel. I stayed in contact with Mr. Sims throughout my 10 day program & during that time I was able to create an "After Care Continuing Care Plan" with his assistance which consisted of getting into an Intensive Out Patient Program, find & meet with an Addiction Therapist/Counselor, Support groups/meetings, Victim's panel & other organizations to get involved in to stay busy & focused on my addiction & to be a better person over all & continue to remain sober & alcohol free. The Judge last Thursday, 11/12/15 read all of my letters, documentations from the various facilities, doctors, therapists, etc. & ruled that I be put on Probation until I complete my IOP program, etc. Mr. Sims was very professional, companionate & extremely knowledgeable about the Law & as a result was able to get me on Probation as opposed to going back two Jail for a minimum of 1 year. This way I can focus on dealing with my disease with professionals that can help me live my life in a happy & sober manner. I credit Mr. Sims for saving my life & I highly recommend him & his firm SMH, Inc. P.S. for representation in any criminal or law matter. Mr. Sims is an extraordinary Attorney & overall a fine, genuine kind man who sincerely cares about his clients & their overall well-being to succeed in life. I am honored & fortunate to have had Mr. Sims represent me!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (13)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Crystal Lloyd, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 14, 2019
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Anthony Grasher, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 6, 2018
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Chris and I have worked together on sex offenses and protection orders. His research and investigative skills are top notch. I would recommend him.

    Cory Wood, Domestic violence Attorney on May 18, 2018
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I fully endorse Mr. Sims. We’ve worked together on a number of matters and I’m always impressed with his professionalism and hard work ethic. He really knows his stuff. The last case we teamed up on was a Domestic Violence case that was headed for trial. Thanks to Chris, this case was dismissed day of trial. I would highly recommend him for any of your criminal defense or traffic defense needs.

    Michael Kutzner, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 27, 2017
    Relationship: Co-worker

    Christopher is a pleasure to work with. He has a sunny disposition that brings joy to those around him. Christopher's legal knowledge and skills permit him to be highly effective and efficient. I am proud to recommend Christopher.

    Matthew Zenner, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 29, 2016
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris Sims is an excellent criminal defense attorney. I've observed him represent dozens of defendants in court. He is a strong and skilled advocate for his clients and he seems like he genuinely cares about what happens to them.

    Anne Vankirk, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 28, 2016
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    I met Chris from the other side of the table. He is an aggressive and intelligent advocate for his clients. I refer anyone who needs a defense attorney his way because I know they will be in good hands.

    David Iannotti, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 11, 2015
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I endorse this lawyer. Chris is one of the hardest working attorneys I know. He will make whatever accommodations necessary to meet with clients and help resolve their legal issues,

    Seth Chastain, Litigation Attorney on Nov 9, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have known Chris for quite some time and I have no problem recommending this lawyer to anyone who needs legal assistance. He is very comfortable in a court room, is not afraid to take difficult cases to trial, and always goes that extra mile for his clients.

    Lola Zakharova, DUI and DWI Attorney on Sep 25, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have known Chris as a colleague for over six years now, and cannot speak highly enough of him as a person and as an attorney. Chris's personality is a unique combination of compassion and down-to- earth approach and thoroughness and legal expertise in criminal and DUI defense. Humble, yet determined, he dedicated his career to defending his clients' rights. I endorse him without reservation.

    Raymond Graham, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 14, 2015
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    I have had the privilege to work with Chris for over 2 years. Chris is an excellent attorney that diligently represents his clients. He has shown his understanding of the nuances of the law and how to best get as favorable a resolution as possible for his clients.

    Sarah Elerson, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 1, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris is a great attorney to have on your side if you are dealing with a criminal matter. He has the ability to provide quick representation in emergent situations. He works closely with his clients so that they understand the legal process by breaking down the legal issues. He is a zealous advocate for every one of his clients.

    Omar Nur, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 1, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I've known Chris Sims for several years. He has an incredible amount of experience and fights hard to defend his clients. Mr. Sims has an excellent familiarity with the law and the local courts and judges. I fully endorse this attorney!

    Margaret Lund, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 15, 2015
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I have worked with Chris several times where he has represented shared clients in their criminal cases. Chris is incredibly knowledgeable regarding all criminal defense matters. He represents his clients as if they were a member of his only family, and his passion for his clients' rights is noteworthy and rare. I have relied on Chris' input and guidance for my clients in times of crisis, and he has always come through. I would recommend Chris to anyone needing a criminal defense attorney without reservation.

    Cost

    RATES
      • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
        45 minutes
      PAYMENT METHODS

      Cash, Check, Credit Card