Honorable Robert J. Simms

Judge Simms was a Hillsborough County Circuit Judge whose legacy includes an unassuming, no-nonsense style while serving on the bench. He presided over civil, criminal, and family matters from 1991 until his sudden passing in 2004. 

Judge Simms was dedicated to his profession and spread his passion for justice by mentoring young attorneys. This includes his daughter, Jacqueline Simms-Petredis, who has served in a multitude of volunteer leadership positions at Bay Area Legal Services.  

His career began in a private law firm, and he later made his way to Pinellas-Pasco and Hillsborough State Attorney offices as a prosecutor. Judge Simms then became a criminal defense lawyer before being elected to the bench. He also served on the Judicial Liaison Committee for the Hillsborough County Bar Association and was an adjunct professor for the paralegal program at Hillsborough Community College.

Today, Bay Area Legal Services boasts a corner conference room, named in Judge Simms’ memory. His service to our community is commemorated on a plaque by the door, as pictured below. 

Give in Memory of Judge Simms