Lonnie C. Simmons

Lonnie C. Simmons is a distinguished attorney who devotes his practice to civil rights, employment litigation, wrongful convictions, and personal injury. He has built a reputation for vigorously defending the rights of individuals wronged by employers, government agencies, or law enforcement. His clients include public employees, veterans, professionals, and individuals who have been victims of serious misconduct.

Mr. Simmons holds both a B.A. in English and a B.S. in Journalism from West Virginia University, magna cum laude. He earned his J.D. from the West Virginia University College of Law in 1982. Early in his career, he clerked for Justice Thomas B. Miller of the West Virginia Supreme Court and later joined several prominent plaintiff-side law firms.

Mr. Simmons has led landmark DNA exoneration efforts, including the releases of Glen Dale Woodall and Larry Holdren—cases that exposed widespread state forensic misconduct and helped free multiple innocent people. His litigation work continues to drive accountability in wrongful convictions, police brutality, and civil rights violations across the state, making him a recognized leader in criminal justice reform and civil rights advocacy.

A former President of the West Virginia Employment Lawyers Association, Mr. Simmons frequently lectures on employment law and civil litigation. He is well-versed in representing clients facing wrongful termination, discrimination, and denial of benefits, and is experienced in both trial work and appellate advocacy before the West Virginia Supreme Court.

Lonnie C. Simmons has earned numerous honors, including listings in The Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers. He holds an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has served in key leadership roles within legal organizations and public defense initiatives. Mr. Simmons remains a trusted voice in the legal community, committed to securing justice for individuals facing powerful opposition.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC
• Member, West Virginia Employment Lawyers Association
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Fellow, West Virginia Bar Foundation
• Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
• Member, American Inns of Court

Licensed State

• West Virginia

Education

• West Virginia University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• West Virginia University
  BA in English & BS in Journalism with Magna Cum Laude

Awards & Badges