Got a charge expunged on a technicality- brilliant knowledge of the law
Gretchen Taylor is a lawyer that you want. She's easy to talk to, open and informative with her clients, and she's also really smart. She was able to get all of my prior dismissed charges expunged, even an alcohol one that I did a diversion program on (which normally can't be expunged) because of a brilliant technicality in case-law. She's easy to talk to, the judges/prosecutors seem to like her and she's VERY good at her job. Hire her!
Gretchen Taylor Pousson is a zealous advocate, specializing in defending the rights of her clients. She has provided the highest quality legal services to a broad range of clients, charged with every conceivable criminal or traffic offense, since 1995. Ms. Pousson previously served as an Assistant Federal Public Defender for the Eastern District of Virginia and is qualified to handle every type of Federal case. Additionally, she served as both an Assistant Commonwealth Attorney and an Assistant Public Defender before opening up her own law office in 2008. In 2022 she joined the firm of Cook, Craig & Francuzenko as their partner handling all criminal and traffic matters.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Got a charge expunged on a technicality- brilliant knowledge of the law
Gretchen Taylor is a lawyer that you want. She's easy to talk to, open and informative with her clients, and she's also really smart. She was able to get all of my prior dismissed charges expunged, even an alcohol one that I did a diversion program on (which normally can't be expunged) because of a brilliant technicality in case-law. She's easy to talk to, the judges/prosecutors seem to like her and she's VERY good at her job. Hire her!
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Posted by anonymous | December 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Gretchen Rocks
Gretchen Taylor is a legal genius. I recommend her to anyone who wants the optimal outcome. Thank you so much Gretchen for all your help.
Posted by Stephanie | November 3, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Truly Amazing and Super intelligent Attorney
I hired Gretchen based off her reviews on AVVO and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I was scared at my charge and she not only managed to have all charges dismissed, she put up with me being a nervous wreck throughout the process and I’m extremely grateful and couldn’t stop hugging her at court. She’s just not any attorney. She’s an attorney with a huge heart. Thank you Gretchen!
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Posted by anonymous | July 21, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Proscutional matter
I consulted on a matter that did not clearly fit Gretchen's expertise, but she was great. I appreciated her insights.
Posted by Brian | April 27, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Complicated DUI Case - Successful Outcome
In searching for an attorney to represent me in a complex DUI case, my research brought me to Gretchen Taylor, who appeared to be one of the most accomplished and respected DUI attorneys in Fairfax, VA.
After an initial consultation, I couldn’t have been more impressed with someone that showed the attention to detail that this case would require. From our first meeting, Gretchen thoroughly reviewed all of the details and quickly developed a strategy that would give me the best chance to win.
In a case that lasted more than a year, Gretchen’s reputation proved true as she successfully helped me to get all charges dropped and expunged. I can’t thank Gretchen enough, and highly recommend her.
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Posted by Dusty | January 8, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Lawyer!
My son was arrested last Memorial Day. I contacted Gretchen and she went to work immediately. She was fast, efficient, and thorough. She worked diligently to get all the facts and prepare the case. She was able to present an effective defense that was based on the objective facts and deep understanding of Virginia statute. When the trial came, my son was found not guilty. I believe her preparation was instrumental in the positive outcome and I highly recommend her to anyone who needs an excellent defense attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | January 1, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
She cares
Plain and simple. She cares. October 2013, I was arrested and indicted with a federal felony. Thank God they didn't seek to detain me. The next day, I had a lot of phone calls to make. Every one of them, lawyer after lawyer, acted as if I was just another phone consultation, that my case didn't really matter, and by extension my plight didn't really matter.
Gretchen was the last phone call on my list. I was ready for more of the same. But she actually cared about what was happening to me. Because of her, I honestly believed I made it through the court system in 1 piece. Her calm confidence yet passion about the case instilled me with a sense that things were going to be alright. When it looked like the case was going to go to trial, she voluntarily motioned to have herself court appointed to me when I said I couldn't afford to retain her through trial. She fought tooth and nail for me along with other co-defendant lawyers and assisted in getting a 5 year felony reduced to a federal misdemeanor.
A federal misdemeanor trumps a felony any day. And though I had to endure more than I had thought, I did so knowing that Gretchen was in my corner.
If you want a lawyer who will be in your corner through every step of the process, you can do no better than Gretchen Taylor.
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Posted by anonymous | December 16, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and experienced. Best choice I made
She is by far the best choice I made. She has been dedicated to my case, attentive and prompt to my needs, was glad to answer every question that I've had regarding my case even to the minute details without any judgment. I honestly could not have asked for a better lawyer. She has been there for me throughout the whole case whenever I needed her and I could tell right away that she really cared and was fighting for me with everything she had. I've never been to court before and was extremely nervous and did not know what to do at all. I had initially contacted other lawyers but she was the only one that was actually friendly and cared enough to patiently take the time to go over everything with me. She knew exactly what to do, how I needed to prepare myself ahead of time, very knowledgeable to the process, etc. Without her I am most positive I would be lost. The results of my case were much better that I could have ever expected it to be. I was originally charged with two misdemeanors which were dropped and two felonies which will eventually result in one misdemeanor as long as I follow through with my probation and conditions given to me by court. She is an "above and beyond" and I would definitely recommend her without question.
Thank you so much for everything!
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Posted by anonymous | July 6, 2015
A Top Notch Attorney Representing Your Best Interests.
I found Gretchen Taylor on the Internet which frightened me at first. But, let's face it. In legal cases, we are not necessarily going to ask friends or relatives and air dirty laundry so ..... you browse the net. We needed someone who had worked animal control violation cases and someone familiar with animal law in the jurisdiction where we were charged. I called Gretchen during the holidays, she called back, she had already looked up some particulars on our case, and scheduled us for an appointment on the next business day. Something extremely relevant to our case came up over another holiday weekend (Saturday night). Reluctantly, I contacted Gretchen, she was in CA at a Conference but handled the "emergency". Gretchen is extremely intelligent which I knew from her academic credentials. But, she also has savvy into the law and into people. While being YOUR advocate, she also doesn't pull punches but she works with you giving her opinions and recommendations. She is a keen negotiator while working in your best interests. Did everything work out exactly as we would have liked, "no" but I can honestly say I would hire her again in a minute. Even those on the 'opposite' side commented to me later: " I never worked with your lawyer before but I really liked her and was very impressed with her". Needless to say, I was extremely pleased with her advice and counsel.
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Posted by Jieni Yao | June 22, 2015
wonderful attorney
I could not have asked for a better outcome. She helped me get my reckless charge of going 89 in a 55 down to just a traffic infraction. Ms. Taylor really does care about her clients, answered every little question I had, is extremely knowledgeable yet honest and fair. Ever step of the way she kept me well informed. I cannot thank her enough for every thing she has done.
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Posted by Devin | May 30, 2015
Fairfax, VA: Commonwealth Attorneys Office
My case was a serious one I would say. Going to trial on Robbery and Abduction for Pecuniary Benefit charges. Gretchen was attentive and did far more than I could have asked.
Posted by anonymous | March 11, 2014
Clean Up Woman
I hired Gretchen on appeal after being convicted on a DUI charge in District Court.
Why:
Gretchen Believed: After explaining the case details. She was excited about all the opportunities my case provided to obtain a dismissal or not guilty verdict. We encountered several obstacles with logistics and evidence, but she never seem discouraged; or waned in our ability to win.
Gretchen's Resourceful: As an asthmatic, I needed a medical expert to provide credible testimony of the challenges asthmatics can sometimes face providing breath samples. She was able to identify and retain an expert in less than 10 days; whereas my withdrawing attorney initially opted not to and later could not find one with 90 days time.
Gretchen Communicated: Clearly, concretely, and regularly about what needed to be done, by who and when. Between Gretchen, the medical expert and I, it felt like I was a member of my own "high-power legal team." We all had our part to play, not only in trial, but research and preparation. The more and better tools we placed in her arsenal, the more dynamic her defense.
Gretchen is good with detail: She understands and/can quickly learn great detail. She demonstrated command of breath testing machinery, variances between devices and limitations. Gretchen was able to draw out uncertainty and contradiction in the officer's testimony; while also spotlighting the officer attestations to behaviors the officer testified I demonstrated properly.
Gretchen's Cool Under Pressure: We drew a prosecution friendly judge who was very "generous" to the prosecution on objections, frequently rushed ; who, at the end, effectively pleaded for the prosecution to give him case law that would allow him to convict beyond the statute both the prosecution and defense agreed was applicable. Gretchen was able to use the judge's zeal for throwing out testimony or sustaining objections against defense witnesses against the prosecution’s witnesses; in one case totally eliminating one witness’s ability to testify all together (the officer was dismissed prior to answering a single question about the case).
Gretchen's Adaptive: Gretchen was able to take the feedback I provided during the trial of the officer's testimony and integrate it into her cross to further tease out questionable testimony.
Bottom Line: Gretchen Argued The Case That I Was Totally Satisfied, Regardless of the Verdict.
nevertheless . . . the verdict was: NOT GUILTY
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Posted by Kathleen | February 20, 2013
Completely Trustworthy & Truly Dedicated
Gretchen went the extra mile within her investigation, discoveries, and insuring my comparability. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of a lawyer with time, attention, and pure professionalism.
Posted by Patricia | August 11, 2012
Simply the Best
Being indicted by the U.S. Government is a nightmare I would not wish on anyone. When our son was faced with the possibility of 20 years in prison for a first-time drug offense, we were frantic. Thankfully, a local attorney recommended Gretchen Taylor. After meeting with her for a consultation, our son knew he had found someone who would not only represent him well, but who cared about him as a person. Ms. Taylor's years of experience in federal court were invaluable in this case. She is professional, knowledgeable, and very respected by her colleagues on both sides. She is honest and open. She thinks outside the box--to her, every case is unique and should be considered from all angles.No stone is left unturned. She is very easy to reach and very responsive. She is also very patient and understood the anguish our family was going through. She made our son feel comfortable and confident going into federal court. She exudes confidence and calm. And she also has a warm sense of humor. We can't say enough about Gretchen Taylor. The outcome of our son's case was so much better than we had hoped for, and that's thanks to Ms. Taylor.
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Posted by anonymous | June 21, 2012
The best lawyer
She is very focused,experienced and very understanding. Ms.Taylor defended a juvenile criminal charges. We are very satisfied with the excellent results. She is very optimistic,knowledgeable, and supportive.
I highly recommend Attorney Gretchen Taylor.
Posted by anonymous | October 25, 2011
Excellent Lawyer!!! Very professional, tough, kind and understanding
Well I was recently arrested for a pretty hefty misdemeanor and was very uncertain and pessimistic about what the outcome of the case would be (also was my first time dealing with the legal system), but Counselor Taylor kept myself and my family well informed and reassured through the whole ordeal and I was more than happy with the outcome. She is very understanding and really fights for your best interest as well as the best possible outcome. Represents her clients with honesty, perseverance, and great optimism when you truly need it most. You are in good hands by hiring Gretchen Taylor as your attorney. My family and I truly thank Counselor Taylor for all her work and expertise in all this. Awesome, Highly recommended!!
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Posted by anonymous | October 2, 2011
A Premier Performance! Gretchen Taylor is a DUI Defense Expert.
After being charged with the serious offence of DUI, I expected the worst: severe driving restrictions, higher insurance, consequences affecting my business, and a permanent mark on my record. Quite frankly, I was terrified of the outcome and what could prove to be a life changing event. Thanks to the aggressive defense of Gretchen Taylor, I avoided a DUI conviction.
I’ve never had a need for a lawyer before, but knew these charges were not something to face alone. After release from jail, I immediately went to work on selecting a lawyer. Gretchen was recommended by a friend, and also a highly respected Fairfax DUI attorney, who does not practice in Federal Court. After my consult with Gretchen, I knew she was well-suited to deliver the results needed. She quickly outlined the gaps the US Attorney would have to overcome for a conviction and assured me that there was reason for optimism.
Throughout the coming weeks, she prepared the case and was in contact updating me on the progress. We even made a trip to the place where I was arrested, so we could provide the court with an accurate photographic description of the roadway for trial.
In the courtroom you can tell Gretchen is in her element; she backed the US Attorney into a corner right away by requesting a jury trial. She whole heartedly felt a jury of my peers would see the deficits she was beginning to unravel in the case. After Gretchen made a motion for trial, the US attorney offered to reduce all charges (DUI & Refusal) to “improper drivingâ€, one of the lowest traffic violations which is similar to running a stop sign or failing to signal.
Gretchen Taylor is your best advocate when it comes to a successful DUI defense. I am eternally grateful for all her hard work, expertise, and care applied to my case. If I am ever in need of an attorney, Gretchen will be the first and only call I make.
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Posted by Jennifer | August 29, 2011
Gretchen Taylor epitomizes the ideal criminal defense attorney!
Ms. Taylor is very knowledgeable in her field, always keeps you informed, and knows the system very well. Her confidence and compassion made me feel I had the best attorney for my case. Thanks to Gretchen, the outcome turned out in my favor. I highly recommend her to anyone interested in a top notch criminal lawyer in Virginia.
Posted by anonymous | April 20, 2011
Gretchen is the best
It took me some time to write this review because I simply cannot find the right words to describe how awesome Gretchen is. I feel proud of myself for making the right " LIFE CHOICE DECISION" and hiring Mrs. Taylor as my Attorney. Needless to say, I was doing my research and searching for a DUI attorney to handle my case for over a month. The moment I met Gretchen, I knew " this is it". I was found guilty , and Gretchen saved my life. Here it is:
1. super sharp and detailed, always steps ahead and on top of the things
2. available!!!!! e-mail, text, cell, always in contact with the client and impressive memory, I almost felt like I am her only client :)
3. extremely charming. Judges simply like her, and compliment her, we had to appeal - the judge found me guilty. Yet, complimented Gretchen " you defended your client admirably"
She does not even have to try. She just has that presence.
4. So about the appeal. She just held my hand and said " Appeal". I was not even thinking clearly, - hopeless and lost. She saved my life. Went extra 1,000.00 miles to prepare for the appeal , and we WON!!!!!
5. And she is very emotionally supportive. While I was on the stand, and the Prosecutor was " attacking" me, all I had to do is look at Gretchen to compose myself.
So like I said - words cannot describe how greatful I am to Attorney Taylor. All I can say -" I was in good hands". She rocks. She is wonderful. She is professional. And she is the winner. I spoke to a few people who were convicted with DUI and simply saying - " my lawyer never even obtained the video tape", well,- not the case with Gretchen.... she is just awesome!
Thank you Gretchen. Thank you.
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Posted by lala51202 | September 29, 2010
Thank you
Gretchen was a great attorney. Always one step ahead of the game. Very easy to communicate with and very knowledgeable about her facts on my case.
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Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Gretchen Taylor is an excellent defense attorney. She is both a competitor and an advisor to me. Her experience spans courts all around Virginia, including work as a prosecutor and defense counsel. I am happy to recommend Gretchen Taylor for criminal cases here in Northern Virginia, in both state and Federal Court."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gretchen is an outstanding litigator for DUI/DWI and all criminal matters. She thoroughly analyzes her cases and by doing so, gets outstanding results for her clients. She is very knowledgeable and is a pleasure to work with!"
Animal law Attorney | Jan 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Gretchen and I served the same client. She handled the criminal aspect and I handled the civil aspect. I attended a criminal trial she conducted and I am thoroughly impressed with her quick responses to challenges from the prosecutor and from the judge. Trial work is as much of an art as fact finding. Gretchen is well versed in both."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have know attorney Gretchen Taylor since law school and consider her one of the smartest, sharpest, hardest working attorneys in Northern Virginia. I would highly recommend her for a DUI defendant, or if you're facing a serious offense."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have know and observed Ms. Taylor in a professional setting for years. She is an experienced litigator who is very comfortable and effective in the courtroom. She is well respected by her fellow defense attorneys, prosecutors and more importantly judges. Ms. Taylor's preparation on each case she handles is demonstrated in the outcomes she obtains for her clients. I would recommend her to any client seeking quality representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Taylor is an excellent litigator who is a natural in the courtroom, and who possesses tremendous experience, ability and tenacity. She handles both State and Federal work, and has the tremendous disposition to deal well with clients, prosecutors and judges alike. Ms. Taylor always combines all her tools to obtain the best result she can for her clients."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Lynch Taylor is a well repected advocate in the legal community. She is well versed in both the law and procedure and always provides her clients excellent representation. I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gretchen knows the law and the local court practices inside out which makes her successful at fighting for her clients. She does not back away from a challenging case and her knowledge of the dui laws and science behind them sets her apart from other defense attorneys. If you hire her you are getting not only someone who will come to court prepared to fight for you but also someone who cares about protecting your rights."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gretchen is a very well respected lawyer all across the country. She is highly trained and a wonderful advocate for her clients. She will fight for your case and has the knowledge, passion and skill to make her one of the best DUI lawyers in the state. I highly recommend Gretchen!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gretchen is a skilled defense attorney in the area of DUI and is not afraid to fight for her clients' rights. Nationally recognized, her talent and experience are unmatched and I would recommend her services to anyone in her area needing a fierce warrior to go to bat for them."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Gretchen has worked for both sides, prosecution and defense. So, she has a unique way of anticipating and deflecting the prosecutor's arguments when she is defending a DUI case. She also has the skills and knowledge necessary to win DUI cases. I highly recommend Gretchen's services."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Gretchen Taylor for over two years and had the opportunity to observe her in and out of the court room. She is a sharp litigator and a pleasure to be around. I am confident that she does excellent work. I expect that her clients are very satisfied. I endorse her."