Payton Hampton

Background

About Payton Hampton

I’m Payton Hampton—an attorney at Parsons Behle & Latimer where I focus on water law, civil litigation, real estate disputes, and commercial litigation. I work with clients across Idaho to deliver clear, strategic legal solutions that are grounded in both legal knowledge and real-world experience. My practice includes representing clients in: • Water rights adjudication and litigation • Permitting, transfers, and maintenance of water rights • Commercial contract and business disputes • Real estate agreements, title issues, and land use conflicts I have extensive experience navigating administrative processes and court systems, including representing clients before state and federal courts in Idaho. Growing up in an agricultural setting gives me firsthand insight into the challenges water users, landowners, and business operators face—and I bring that perspective into every case I handle. I earned my J.D. with High Honors from the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law, where I served as Executive Footnote Editor of the Utah Law Review, was Vice President of the school’s Federal Bar Association chapter, and received multiple awards for legal writing and oral advocacy. Before law school, I graduated from Utah State University with a B.A. in Law and Constitutional Studies and Economics. Prior to my legal career, I served as a wildland firefighter on the Logan Interagency Hotshot Crew. I worked across the Western U.S, Alaska, and Canada, and served as a squad boss, sawyer, and EMT. That experience shaped how I approach challenges—with focus, resilience, and a strong commitment to teamwork. I’m licensed in Idaho and the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho and currently serve as President of the Seventh District Bar Association (2025–2026). I’m also an active member of the Idaho Water Users Association, Eastern Idaho Water Rights Coalition, and a volunteer attorney for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). When I’m not in the office or courtroom, you’ll likely find me fly fishing on one of Idaho’s trout streams, skiing, or spending time outdoors with my wife and our three kids. I’m also fluent in Finnish. If you’re looking for legal guidance in water law, property litigation, or complex business disputes, I’d be happy to connect.