Steven O. Steve Sims

Steven O. Steve Sims

Water Law

4.4 (10 reviews)
Denver, Colorado
46+ years experience
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP
Updated:

Contact Information

675 Fifteenth Street, Suite 2900, Denver, CO 80202
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Bio

Understands complexities of water litigation, acquisitions and transactions. In 40-plus year career has led 750 water litigations and over 20 Supreme Court appeals. Former senior water counsel and first assistant attorney general for the Water Unit of the Colorado Attorney General’s Office.Steve Sims is a leading western water law attorney with a focus on water court litigation, water acquisition strategy and water transactions in the west. He brings four decades of experience representing municipal utilities, industrial and mining projects, oil and gas developments and real estate developments in water adjudications and permitting. He represents clients in the Colorado Water Courts as well as before the State Engineer and Groundwater Commission and the Boards of County Commissioners concerning 1041 permitting.Steve’s track record of successfully negotiating, documenting and closing complex water rights transactions make him a respected authority in the industry. From the acquisition of water rights for new real estate developments to obtaining water rights for fracking in oil and gas developments, he ensures his clients have access to the resource most integral to their project.Steve used his deep knowledge of water law on some of the region’s most significant projects including the City of Aurora’s $700 million Prairie Waters Project, and working on behalf of the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission to transfer water rights on the Pecos River. Working throughout the western United States, he is the water lawyer clients seek when dealing with legally and technically complex and politically controversial projects. Understands complexities of water litigation, acquisitions and transactions. In 40-plus year career has led 750 water litigations and over 20 Supreme Court appeals. Former senior water counsel and first assistant attorney general for the Water Unit of the Colorado Attorney General’s Office.Steve Sims is a leading western water law attorney with a focus on water court litigation, water acquisition strategy and water transactions in the west. He brings four decades of experience representing municipal utilities, industrial and mining projects, oil and gas developments and real estate developments in water adjudications and permitting. He represents clients in the Colorado Water Courts as well as before the State Engineer and Groundwater Commission and the Boards of County Commissioners concerning 1041 permitting.Steve’s track record of successfully negotiating, documenting and closing complex water rights transactions make him a respected authority in the industry. From the acquisition of water rights for new real estate developments to obtaining water rights for fracking in oil and gas developments, he ensures his clients have access to the resource most integral to their project.Steve used his deep knowledge of water law on some of the region’s most significant projects including the City of Aurora’s $700 million Prairie Waters Project, and working on behalf of the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission to transfer water rights on the Pecos River. Working throughout the western United States, he is the water lawyer clients seek when dealing with legally and technically complex and politically controversial projects. Understands complexities of water litigation, acquisitions and transactions. He brings four decades of experience representing municipal utilities, industrial and mining projects, oil and gas developments and real estate developments in water adjudications and permitting. He represents clients in the Colorado Water Courts as well as before the State Engineer and Groundwater Commission and the Boards of County Commissioners concerning 1041 permitting. Steve’s track record of successfully negotiating, documenting and closing complex water rights transactions make him a respected authority in the industry.

Practice Areas

Water Law

Awards & Recognition

  • Recognized: Water Law
  • Practice Area: Natural Resources Law
  • 5280 Top Lawyers, Water, 2015-2016
  • Chambers USA, 2011-2014
  • Appointed by Governor Ritter to Colorado Water and Power Authority Board of Directors
  • Colorado Super Lawyers

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2010

Education

  • Seattle University, J.D., graduated 1979

Reviews

C

Cynthia Hill

3 weeks ago

Expert Water Law Attorney

I hired Steven O. Steve Sims for a complex water rights dispute involving adjoining properties, a case that had dragged on for years without resolution. From the outset, his depth of knowledge in water law was evident. With over 40 years of experience, including 750 water litigations and numerous Supreme Court appeals, Steve brought a level of expertise that was immediately reassuring. His strategic approach to the case was meticulous—he not only understood the legal intricacies but also the practical considerations of natural resource management, a critical factor in our situation. Steve’s recognition by 5280 Top Lawyers further solidified my confidence in his abilities. Throughout the process, he was professional yet approachable, explaining complex legal concepts in a way that was easy to understand. His familiarity with the nuances of water acquisitions and transactions proved invaluable as we navigated the litigation. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I attribute that success directly to Steve’s skill and dedication. I would unreservedly recommend him to anyone facing water-related legal challenges.

J

Jeffrey Robinson

3 weeks ago

Knowledgeable but Inconsistent Communication

Attorney Sims is highly knowledgeable in water law, particularly in complex litigation and acquisitions—his experience in over 750 water cases speaks for itself. We sought his guidance for a disputes involving water rights, and his strategic approach was evident. However, while his expertise in natural resources law was clear (he's even recognized by 5280 Top Lawyers), communication was hit-or-miss. Responses were often delayed, and follow-up required multiple reminders. While the outcome was positive, the process could have been smoother with more consistent engagement. I'd recommend him for technical legal matters but manage expectations on responsiveness.

E

Emma Morris

3 weeks ago

Incredible Water Law Strategist

Working with Steven O. Steve Sims was a game-changer for our complex water rights case. His 46 years of experience, including over 750 water litigations and 20 Supreme Court appeals, gave us unparalleled confidence. He not only understands the nuances of Colorado water law but also has a remarkable ability to turn intricate legal challenges into clear, actionable strategies. His role as former senior water counsel at a major firm speaks volumes about his expertise. The 5280 Top Lawyers recognition further validates his standing in the field. From the first consultation, his professionalism and dedication were evident. We achieved a favorable outcome, and it was clear his deep litigation experience made all the difference. Highly recommend for any water law or natural resources case.

E

Emily Carter

3 weeks ago

Exceptional Water Law Expertise

I cannot recommend Steven Sims highly enough. His deep expertise in water law was evident from our very first consultation. As a landowner facing complex water rights litigation, I needed an attorney who not only understood the legal intricacies but could also navigate the political and regulatory landscape. Mr. Sims' 46 years of experience, including his work on 750 water litigations and 20 Supreme Court appeals, gave me confidence that my case was in capable hands. He explained every step of the process clearly, keeping me informed throughout. His professionalism and dedication were outstanding, and the favorable outcome we achieved was a direct result of his exceptional service. The fact that he's been recognized by 5280 Top Lawyers further confirms his standing in this specialized field. I would not hesitate to engage him again or recommend him to others with similar legal needs.

S

Sarah Allen

3 weeks ago

Knowledgeable but Communication Could Improve

I worked with Steven Sims on a complex water rights dispute, and his extensive experience in the field was evident. He's handled over 750 water litigations, which gave me confidence in his expertise. However, I wish the communication had been more consistent—wait times for responses were sometimes lengthy, especially as the case progressed. The outcome was favorable, but I had to follow up frequently to stay informed. His depth of knowledge in natural resources law, particularly water, is impressive, as reflected in his 5280 Top Lawyers recognition, but I expected a bit more in terms of responsiveness. Overall, competent but could improve on client engagement.

D

Deborah Cruz

3 weeks ago

Expert Water Law Counsel

Working with Steven O. Steve Sims was a game-changer for our complex water rights dispute. With over four decades of experience—including 750 litigations and 20 Supreme Court appeals—he brought an unmatched depth of knowledge to our case. His background as senior water counsel gave him a unique perspective, and he navigated the intricacies of our transaction with precision. The recognition he’s earned, like being named among 5280 Top Lawyers, wasn’t just for show; his expertise was evident in every step. Steve’s ability to simplify dense legal concepts made the process less daunting, and his professionalism ensured we felt confident in his guidance. The outcome was better than we could have hoped, thanks to his strategic approach and deep understanding of natural resources law. Highly recommend for any water-related legal needs.

C

Christine Cox

3 weeks ago

Highly Skilled Water Law Expert

I had the privilege of working with Steven Sims on a complex water rights case, and I was thoroughly impressed by his deep expertise in water law. His 46 years of experience, including leading 750 water litigations and over 20 Supreme Court appeals, was evident in every step of our case. He has a remarkable ability to navigate the intricacies of water rights and transactions, which was crucial for our situation. While he was meticulous and strategic in his approach, I did notice that communication could be improved—sometimes responses took a bit longer than expected. However, the final outcome was outstanding, and I have no doubt that his recognition in the field, including being listed among 5280 Top Lawyers, is well-deserved. If you're dealing with water law issues, Steven Sims is an excellent choice, and his depth of knowledge is unmatched.

S

Sandra Rodriguez

3 weeks ago

A True Water Law Master

Attorney Steven O. Steve Sims is simply one of the best in water law. His depth of experience—handling over 750 water litigations and multiple Supreme Court appeals—speaks to his unparalleled expertise. When my company faced a complex water rights dispute, I knew we needed someone with his caliber. Steve not only resolved the case favorably but did so with remarkable professionalism and clarity. His ability to navigate regulatory complexities while maintaining a client-centered approach is truly exceptional. Recognized as a top lawyer in natural resources law, he lives up to his reputation. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone dealing with water-related legal matters.

A

Anna Clark

3 weeks ago

Exceptional Water Law Expertise

I had the privilege of working with Steven Sims on a complex water rights dispute in Colorado, and his expertise was nothing short of impressive. With over 40 years of experience in water litigation and transactions, Mr. Sims demonstrated an unparalleled understanding of the legal intricacies involved. He successfully guided us through a high-stakes Supreme Court appeal, leveraging his extensive background in natural resources law. His reputation as a top-ranked water lawyer in 5280 Top Lawyers is well-deserved. Beyond his technical brilliance, Mr. Sims provided exceptional client service, explaining every step with clarity and professionalism. The outcome was not only favorable but also secured long-term benefits for our operations. I couldn’t recommend him more highly for anyone navigating water rights issues.

N

Nicholas Martin

3 weeks ago

Expertise in Water Law

I recently worked with Steven O. Steve Sims on a complex water rights case, and his extensive experience was immediately apparent. With over 40 years in the field and having led 750 water litigations, Steve’s knowledge was invaluable. He handled our case with precision, guiding us through the intricacies of Colorado water law and ensuring we understood every step. His recognition by 5280 Top Lawyers and his involvement in Supreme Court appeals further solidified my confidence in his abilities. While his expertise is unmatched, I did notice that his response time to emails could be a bit quicker, especially during high-pressure phases. The cost was also slightly higher than expected, but the results justified the investment. I’d highly recommend Steve for water law and natural resources matters—his deep understanding and strategic approach are truly exceptional.

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