Madison Simons

I was born and raised in Thousand Oaks, California, in a Jewish household that instilled in me both an acute awareness of structural injustice and a deep desire to confront it. Guided by those values, I have consistently sought to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to support communities targeted by state violence, both in the U.S. and abroad.

What motivated/inspired you to become an attorney?

My path to law was shaped by an early interest in understanding human behavior. While studying behavioral neuroscience at Stanford, I became increasingly aware of how profoundly our actions are influenced by complex social and biological factors. This awareness naturally led me to question the punitive approach of the criminal legal system—especially the ways it disproportionately targets vulnerable communities and reinforces cycles of disenfranchisement. My critiques were sharpened further through my work at the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office, where I saw firsthand the human consequences of these systemic inequities.

Before law school, I also spent time in Palestine conducting environmental research and contributing to infrastructure projects designed to promote resilience in occupied territories. That experience inspired me to explore how the law can be used to support transnational solidarity movements. I then attended UCLA School of Law, specializing in international and comparative law, and through clinics and NGOs, I worked on behalf of victims of torture—engaging with UN treaty bodies and participating in litigation against U.S.-based companies implicated in human rights abuses.

What do you enjoy most about the work you do?

What draws me to the legal field is the opportunity to hold powerful actors accountable and to redistribute resources to those who have been harmed. At Brayton Purcell, I am fortunate to put these principles into practice by advocating for individuals injured by toxic environmental exposures. I look forward to continuing to grow as an attorney alongside this excellent team while making a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients and their communities.

What are your hobbies and interests? What do you like to do when you're not working?

Outside of work, I prioritize cultivating language skills and am currently conversational in both Spanish and Arabic. I spend much of my free time watching shows, listening to podcasts, and reading in these languages, which allows me to engage more deeply with diverse perspectives.

Music is another passion of mine—I am a trained jazz musician and songwriter. When I need to unwind, I often write, record, or play original music with fellow musicians, and I enjoy attending live shows on weekends to explore new genres.

Finally, I find the greatest joy outdoors. I live near a hiking trail where I run with my dog every day, and I take full advantage of opportunities to climb, camp, and swim in the ocean. These activities help me recharge and maintain balance in both my personal and professional life.