Meet Taylon Sumners-Schwartz

Criminal defense attorney. Fearless advocate. Fiercely compassionate.

Born and raised in Aurora, Missouri, Taylon Sumners-Schwartz built this practice to serve the people and places she calls home.

After nearly a decade litigating serious criminal cases with one of the region’s most respected law firms, Taylon returned to the 417 to open her own doors and to do things differently. For her, criminal defense isn’t about power plays or prestige. It’s about people. And it’s personal.

“I know what’s on the line when someone’s facing charges. I’m here to help my clients understand the process, protect their rights, and make it through to the other side stronger than they were before.”

Sumners-Schwartz Career Highlights

Known for fearless advocacy and nearly a decade in the courtroom, Taylon’s career reflects meaningful wins, community leadership, and a commitment to helping clients find clarity, accountability, and a path forward.

  • Juris Doctor, Washburn University School of Law (Dean’s Honors)

  • Former Trial Attorney with Wampler & Passanise

    • Tried numerous complex cases in federal and state courts, while also preparing and arguing countless pre-trial motions

Community Involvement

  • Aurora Community Center, Board of Directors

  • Washburn School of Law Intensive Trial Advocacy Program (ITAP), Topeka, KS Instructor, annually since May 2022

  • Go Red for Women (American Heart Association), Springfield, MO, Co-Chair, Leadership Team Member, annually since 2021

  • Member of Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce 

Awards

  • Missouri Lawyers Media Women’s Justice Award Litigation Practitioner Award (2024)

  • Missouri Lawyers Media Up & Coming Honoree (2022)

  • Best Lawyers® Ones to Watch for Criminal Defense: White Collar (2022-Present)

  • AVVO Client’s Choice Award (2021 - Present) -  View Taylon on AVVO

  • Springfield Business Journal, Up and Comer Trusted Adviser Award (2021)

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, Top 10 Under 40, 2021

PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP

  • 39th Circuit Bar President (2024)

  • NACDL Member

  • Instructor at Washburn’s Trial Advocacy Program

  • 39th Circuit Bar President (2024)

  • Southern Missouri Women Lawyers, Member, CLE Committee

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), Member

  • National College for DUI Defense (NCDD), Member

  • Springfield Missouri Bar Association (SMBA), Member

  • Missouri Bar Association, Member

Media appearances

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A Team That Knows You

—and Fights for You

As the first point of contact for many clients, Taegan brings clarity, care, and strong communication to every case. With a degree in Biology from Drury University and three years of experience in criminal defense, she bridges the gap between clients and attorney with sharp organization and a calm, steady presence.

Originally from Southwest Missouri, Taegan now lives on a cattle farm, where her grounded perspective and curiosity carry into her work. She’s passionate about making sure every client feels heard, informed, and supported.

Circular text "Represented With Compassion" on black background.

Meet Taegan Hadlock

Paralegal

  • My experience with Taylon has been wonderful in every case I have had her handle.

    She is professional and kind, but down to earth and easy to get along with. It is very refreshing to know that there are young and talented female lawyers in the Springfield area. Taylon has been a God send in my life and I am extremely appreciative of her and her team.

    - Anonymous, via AVVO


  • Taylon, was excellent in all aspects of our case.

    We hired her for an expungement of charges for my wife that happened many years ago. She had great communication, keeping us posted along the way and her fee was less than I had expected. I highly recommend her for any needs.

    - JB, via AVVO

  • Taylon went above and beyond handling my cases.

    We had many meetings at her office where she explained to me every step that she was doing to get me the best possible outcome. I feel she fought to the very end and was unlike any lawyer I have ever used in the past. I would highly recommend her to anybody needing help.

    - Chad, via AVVO

  • Taylon Sumners-Schwartz was hands down the most capable, professional, and easy to work with attorney that I've ever had represent me.

    Her price was more than reasonable, she went above and beyond my expectations, and would recommend her to anyone and everyone in the area that needs legal counsel. Absolutely stellar representation. Talented beyond her years. 10 out of 5 stars.

    - Issac, via AVVO

  • Taylon was beyond amazing.

    She was very knowledgeable. She worked hard and got me the best outcome for my case. I spoke to other lawyers but once I spoke to her I knew she was the person to pick to represent me. I am so grateful for all her advice and support while she worked my case.

    - Arielle, via AVVO

  • I had the pleasure of hiring Taylon and I couldn’t be more impressed.

    From the very beginning she was responsive, clear, and highly professional. She handled my case with remarkable speed, keeping me informed every step of the way! Her attention to detail and commitment to getting the best possible outcome truly stood out. It’s hard to find someone who combines legal expertise with such dedication and who truly cares for her clients. I highly recommend Taylon to anyone in need of a trustworthy attorney.

    - Melissa, via AVVO