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Christopher Scott Taylor

also known as Chris Taylor
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About Christopher

Defending the accused has always been a passion of mine.  Pride in criminal defense law was imparted in me at a very early age, as my father is a very prominent and nationally recognized DUI attorney.  I was able to see the personal satisfaction that can  come from helping the accused and defending the innocent, so I knew what I wanted from a career.

 

I obtained a Bachelor's of Science in Political Science from Santa Clara University.  I graduated with Honors and focused my undergraduate education on the law, and particularly constitutional law,as I wrote my honors thesis about judicial interpretation.  After graduation, I attended Univsersity of San Diego School of Law where, again, I took every criminal course possible.  During my time in law school, I also wanted as much practical experience as possible, so I interned at the San Diego City Attorney's Office, the San Diego Public Defender's Office, and received a highly sought after externship with one of the most respected Justices on the California Court of Appeals.  While classroom education is important, I wanted to get into the courtroom and learn the realities of criminal defense.  In the end, I tried to work as much as possible in the courtroom, while still graduating in the top 30% of my law school class, which included receiving the higest grade in my class for Criminal Procedure.

 

After passing the CA State Bar exam on my first attempt, I came back home to Orange County where I was employed at the Orange County Public Defender's Office for about 9 years.  I enjoyed every moment at the PDs office, as I was able to help thousands of indigent clients accused of anything from traffic infractions to murder.  I gained a substantial amount of experience in conducting numerous jury trials, motions and other areas of litigation.  During my time at the Public Defender's Office, I was even assigned to supervise a misdemeanor unit of attorneys. 

 

After experiencing all areas of defense work within the Public Defender's Office, I decided to join my father in focusing my defense efforts on representing clients charged with DUIs.  Throughout my legal career, I have represented hundreds, if not thousands, of clients charged with DUI offenses.  I have successfully defended clients charged with anything from a 1st DUI to 2nd Degree Murder (Vehicular Homicide).  I take great pride in providing my clients with the highest level of legal representation!

Practice areas

Criminal defenseDUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 75%

    17 years

  2. Criminal defense: 25%

    17 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

383495 1432235878

383495 1432312813

383495 1432323544

383495 1447105401

Contact

19800 MacArthur Boulevard
address map

Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor

19800 MacArthur Boulevard
Suite 300
Irvine, CA, 92612

    Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor

    3780 Kilroy Airport Way.
    Suite 310
    Long Beach, CA, 90806

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    CAActive200402/12/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers28
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Rising Star 2017SuperLawyers2017
    Superlawyers Rising StarSuperLawyers Magazine2016
    2015 Top Attorney in Orange CountyCoast Magazine2015
    Top 100 Trial LawyersThe National Trial Lawyers Association2015
    American Jurisprudence Award for Criminal ProcedureThompson West Publishers2002
    2nd placeUniversity of San Diego National Mock Trial Competition2002
    American Jurisprudence Award for Property LawThompson West Publishing2002
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Managing AttorneyLaw Offices of Taylor & Taylor2015 - Present
    Managing AttorneyLaw Offices Of Lawrence Taylor2013 - 2015
    AttorneyOrange County Office Of The Public Defender2005 - 2013
    Legal ExternCalifornia Court Of Appeal 4th District2003 - 2004
    Legal InternSan Diego County Office Of The Public Defender2002 - 2003
    Legal AssistantSan Diego City Attorney's Office2002 - 2002
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Criminal Trial Lawyers AssociationAttorney Member2015 - Present
    National College of DUI DefenseAttorney Member2013 - Present
    National Association of Criminal Defense AttorneysAttorney Member2013 - Present
    State Bar of California, Criminal Law SectionAttorney Member2013 - Present
    Orange County Bar AssociationAttorney Member2005 - Present
    State Bar of CaliforniaAttorney Member2004 - Present
    OC Deputy Public Defenders Assoc.Board of Directors - Treasurer2011 - 2012
    Orange County Deputy Public Defender AssociationBoard of Directors Member2010 - 2011
    California Public Defenders AssociationN/A2005 - 2013
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Coast MagazineOCBA 2015 Top Attorney2015
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Univ of San Diego SOLlaw2004
    Santa Clara Univundergraduate2001
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    OC Public Defenders West Justice OfficeDUI law2017
    OCPD CJC TrainingMisdemeanor Trial Tactics2010
    OCPDs Training1538.5 Motion2008
    OCPDs TrainingDependency Law2007
    OC Social Services Agency TrainingDependency Law - Defense2007
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    People v. PJ3 of 4 charges dismissed; community serivce and alcohol program ordered
    People v. JJwet reckless
    People v. EPwet reckless
    People v. BLwet reckless
    People v. IEResisting Arrest charges dismissed; Probation and Court ordered program granted
    People v. BGDUI with injury (CVC 23153) charges dismissed. Client received .08 BAC (23152b) with community service and minimum (3 mos) alcohol program
    People v. DJPled to driving over .08 with minimum 3 mos program and fines - refusal striken
    People v. SSwet reckless
    People v. KCHit and Run dismissed; minimum class and fines
    People v. BEwet reckless
    People v. GAResisting Arrest and Evading allegations dismissed; client received minimum DUI class and fines
    People v. PKCharges dropped and no license suspension
    People v. HADMV hearing won- license returned
    People v. HM1st DUI with minimum class and fines; no resisting arrest charges or refusal
    People v. AVfelony charges dismissed; client received misdemeanor DUI with minimum DUI classes and fines
    People v. PDAssault and Hit and Run dismissed; client received probation and no jail

    Reviews

    (16)
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    Review Christopher Taylor

    A Military Veteran with 3 DUI’s

    Posted by

    I’m a Military Veteran and in March 2018, I was pulled over, arrested and charged with my 2nd DUI within 5 years. I was still on probation from my 1st DUI and I didn’t know what to do. Searching for local DUI Lawyers, I decided to put my trust in The Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor after reading the reviews prior clients had posted. Upon meeting with Mr. Christopher Taylor, I knew I made the right decision based off the reviews I had read. Mr. Taylor explained the process we were about to go through very thoroughly while answering & reassuring any questions I had. I felt confident that Mr. Taylor would handle my case and provide the best possible outcome for my current situation. Two months later; I got pulled over AGAIN, arrested and was charged with a 3rd DUI. Still under the council of The Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor; Mr. Taylor was empathic and nonjudgmental upon hearing of my 3rd DUI arrest. Mr. Taylor laid out a new plan to address my 3rd DUI with the hopes of still achieving a successful outcome. Keeping in mind my Military service, Mr. Taylor discussed my possibility for eligibility into a Military Diversion Program. Through Mr. Taylor’s dedication, tireless effort and unwavering support to my case, he was successful in negotiating with the Orange County DA’s Office which allowed me to be accepted into the Military Diversion Program. July 2020 I successfully completed the Military Diversion Program with the outcome being ALL DUI’s expunged from my record. I rejoice today knowing there are programs out there for Veterans here in Orange County who made poor choices and giving them the education they need to achieve success. Christopher Taylor; I’m forever grateful to the new beginning that I’ve been given. Thank you again for everything you did for me and getting me into this gift called “Military Diversion” while encouraging me every step along the way.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    i highly recommend Chris Taylor

    Posted by

    I had a 2nd DUI after 7 seven years, I didn't realize how much more these get punished, as I learned of the consequences I was devastated and full of anxiety. Thank God, I hired Chris Taylor, he guided me through the entire process, from day 1 he was realistic about the outcome and immediately put me to work on my case. it took about 10 months to get my sentence, it was very stressful times. My work has zero tolerance for DUI, so I was sure I would lose my job. So one thing that helped me a lot is that somehow Chris was able to synchronize the timing of the DMV suspending my license with the court proceedings. Chris is a true professional in what he does, polite, patient, he will answer all your questions. Chris knows a lot of people in the courts which makes You feel comfortable in front of the judge. Chris offers suggestions in those desperate times is great to feel safe in the middle of this situation. At this point, almost 2 years after my arrest, I have completed all programs except the DUI school which last 18 months and most important, I was able to keep my job, don't even know how this was possible but it took a lot of hard work on my side too. Overall, I am satisfied with the outcome and happy for my new life. I highly recommend Chris Taylor for your surprising and unexpected DUI case.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent DUI Attorney!

    Posted by

    As you can imagine, getting a DUI was a pretty overwhelming experience, especially for someone like me who has never been in a predicament with the law. After the incident I was extremely anxious because of how this would impact my career as a physician. Christopher Taylor was recommended by a friend who lived in Miami. My first conversation with Mr. Taylor was not what I expected. He really put me at ease and I knew that he had my best interest at heart just by the tone of his voice and how reassuring he was that everything would be ok. I will never forget ending that first encounter and thinking how lucky I was that he would be representing me. Mr. Taylor not only shows concern and empathy for your individual situation at hand, but he is well versed in this subject matter and has a lot of experience to ensure he is going to do the best that he can representing you. Communication from him and his office staff is superb and he is easily accessible even if he has to return the call or email within a 24 hour period. As you can imagine, everything worked out for me. I was able to complete my residency program and now am completing a fellowship elsewhere. A major concern of mine was my ability to obtain a medical license, but I can happily say I have my license now. Mr. Taylor is very well connected and would be the best lawyer to represent you in California. I would highly recommend him without any hesitation. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer to represent me during such a difficult time in my life. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to represent me during such a difficult time in my life.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    first timer, out of state, thankful

    Posted by

    As a out of state first time offender, I was scared out of my mind. Through extensive research and consulting with friends in the area and field, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to have Chris Taylor on my case. Chris helped me though every detail, answered every question, replied quickly and was able to ensure the best possible outcome for my case. If you are out of state, in state, moving, so overwhelmed you don't even know what state you are in ... please call Chris. I cannot thank Chris enough for helping me.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Amazing Service

    Posted by

    You never want to experience a dui and never think it is going to happen but when it does this team makes it easy and painless. They are polite and work with you the whole time. Not once did I feel lost or out of the loop which is incredible since I had no clue what a DUI consisted of. The best part to was their skill. I was being charged with DUI, Hit & Run, Refusal; Settled for a Wet & Reckless. This was incredible and I did not lose my license either. Thank you guys so much for being great!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    DUI

    Posted by

    Chris Taylor was masterful in dealing with my son's DUI. He kept us informed step by step of the ongoing process, and we always knew what was happening and why. We received the best possible conclusion. I would recommend him to all. Very professional!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Quick, Clear and Effective

    Posted by

    I was charged with a DUI last year, and immediately felt overwhelmed by the complexity of the legal process. Chris made sense of the entire process for me. His description of the process was clear and easy to understand. Whenever I had a question, his replies were quick and clear. His pursuit to explore all legal remedies was dogged, and his guidance was very wise and effective. Chris is very experienced, well-connected with the courts, and patient with clients. I always knew where I was in the process, and knew that he was always available to explain what was happening, and what options I had. I would highly recommend Chris to anyone who needs legal representation when going through a DUI.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Amazing DUI Defense Lawyer

    Posted by

    I hired Chris after a run in with a checkpoint a in December. My biggest fear was loosing my license. My daily commute is 60 miles each way so there is no way I could handle not being able to drive for any period of time. Chris was on top of it. Understood my biggest concern and did his absolute best to limit the driving restrictions.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Scared First Time Offender

    Posted by

    I was pulled over for a DUI about 6 months ago. First time I’ve ever been in trouble for anything. So naturally, I was scared from the very beginning. After getting released, I called around to a few DUI lawyers looking for the best fit. I needed someone that I was comfortable with and would ease all the fears I had. The initial conversation I had with Chris felt very natural and reassuring. He explained the entire process in a manner that I could understand. He prepped me for what to expect and best/worst case scenarios. He was able to reduce my fine and class requirements while still being able to drive to and from work while the proceedings were in progress. Take it from me, DUIs can happen to anyone and if they do, these guys are the way to go!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    One Split Decision Took me to a Dark Place

    Posted by

    A split decision took me to a place I’d never imagined I’d be. Last May, I was at a party and had a few too many. Thought I was ok to drive home and got pulled over just a few miles from my house. The cop wouldn’t let me skate by so there I was taking the field test with the risk of family and friends seeing it happen. That was my wake up call. I made contact with Chris Taylor after searching around the web for DUI specialists in the area. He could tell how nervous I was. My father came into the consult with me so it was a difficult subject to talk about with my father’s glare coming at me at the same time. But Chris was fantastic! He calmed both my father and I down a great deal. He assured me he’d be there throughout the entire process and he certainly was. Phone calls and updates the whole time. Explained every detail. And got me through it all in the end. So glad I found Chris! I’m finishing up my classes now and this chapter will finally be over.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
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    Attorney endorsements

    (17)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Ryan Williams, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 20, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris is the undisputed king of suppression motions. I have never met another attorney who was more knowledgeable about the laws pertaining to search and seizure. He has won countless suppression motions, resulting in cases being tossed out of court early in the proceedings. He is a brilliant attorney who will go the extra mile to get justice for his clients. When Chris speaks, judges and jurors listen. I wholeheartedly endorse him.

    Kevin Snyder, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 28, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I wholeheartedly agree with all of the prior endorsements. Chris brings with him a high level of intelligence, wealth of experience, and dedication to his clients that is unmatched. I have personally worked alongside Chris for many years and have witnessed him achieve the impossible for his clients time and time again. He cares deeply about his clients which is reflected in his personable demeanor and passionate defense. He is widely respected among judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and pretty much anyone with whom he meets. Legal acumen is a part of that, but much of it is because at his core, Chris is a genuinely good person. He would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. To have Chris Taylor as your attorney is to know you are represented by one of the best - in law and in life. Frankly, if I were charged with a DUI (or any crime for that matter), Chris would be my first call.

    Bianca Jimenez, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 12, 2018
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris is a superb attorney with an incredible knowledge of the law.

    Regina Scherer, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 23, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris Taylor works tirelessly to defend his clients. Using his extensive experience and abundant knowledge of DUI defense law, he provides every client with superior representation.

    Saman Manavi, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 20, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris is one of the most knowledgeable DUI attorneys in the state. His experience in the field is second to none, as he has proven himself as one of the premier DUI lawyers in California. In the short time I've known him, I have seen him produce remarkable outcomes for his clients. I endorse Christopher Taylor, and indeed his entire firm, for anyone facing a DUI.

    Jeanne Normandeau, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 19, 2015
    Relationship: Co-worker

    Chris and I have worked together for the last 2 years. He is a rare breed as a defense attorney because he truly cares about his clients and works hard to achieve the best possible outcome for them. Through his vast knowledge of DUI law and his persistence, Chris obtains amazing results. His courtroom experience and reputation are unmatched in Orange County courts. Without a doubt, I would want Chris on my side and I highly endorse him.

    Kevin Snyder, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 28, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I wholeheartedly agree with all of the prior endorsements. Chris brings with him a high level of intelligence, wealth of experience, and dedication to his clients that is unmatched. I have personally worked alongside Chris for many years and have witnessed him achieve the impossible for his clients time and time again. He cares deeply about his clients which is reflected in his personable demeanor and passionate defense. He is widely respected among judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and pretty much anyone with whom he meets. Legal acumen is a part of that, but much of it is because at his core, Chris is a genuinely good person. He would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. To have Chris Taylor as your attorney is to know you are represented by one of the best - in law and in life. Frankly, if I were charged with a DUI (or any crime for that matter), Chris would be my first call.

    Katherine Walsh, DUI and DWI Attorney on Sep 25, 2014
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    Chris and I worked on opposing sides for many years and his clients are lucky to have him. Chris is very thorough and vigorously fights for all his clients. He is also well respected in the community. I recommend Chris for any criminal matter, especially DUI.

    Kevin Hogle, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 8, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I am proud to endorse attorney Chris Taylor. There are few attorneys that care more, or try harder, than Mr. Taylor. As a specialist in DUIs, he knows what it takes to put his DUI clients in the best possible position to achieve a favorable result in their case, whether that is by earning an outright dismissal, resolving the case for a favorable disposition, or winning at trial. I believe in his firm, and in Mr. Taylor himself.

    Ricardo Vallejo, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 4, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I could not offer a stronger endorsement for an attorney. I have known and worked with Mr. Taylor for nearly 10 years. Throughout that time he has proven to be one of the most hard working, intelligent, and eloquent attorneys I know. His preparation and attention to detail are second to none. If I or someone I cared about were charged with DUI he would be the first person I called.

    C. Missakian, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 13, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I strongly endorse Christopher Taylor. If you are facing a DUI in Southern California, do yourself a favor and ignore the radio ad hacks who will promise you the world, take your money and accomplish nothing, and contact Mr. Taylor instead. Mr. Taylor has extensive criminal DUI experience and will do everything necessary to get you the best possible outcome. For years I have seen him get amazing results in both trials and negotiations. He is smart, hard-working, and a true professional. His stellar reputation with judges, prosecutors, and fellow defense attorneys is very much deserved.

    Geraldine Wong, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 22, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have known Chris for many years now, and I can say without hesitation that he is the best of the best. Truly, he could write a book on 1538.5 motions. He is a top-notch trial attorney. He has a genuine compassion for his clients, and treats them with care and respect. He is a FANTASTIC attorney.

    Ryan Williams, DUI and DWI Attorney on Oct 20, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris is the undisputed king of suppression motions. I have never met another attorney who was more knowledgeable about the laws pertaining to search and seizure. He has won countless suppression motions, resulting in cases being tossed out of court early in the proceedings. He is a brilliant attorney who will go the extra mile to get justice for his clients. When Chris speaks, judges and jurors listen. I wholeheartedly endorse him.

    Laura Vavakin, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 30, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Chris was a colleague of mine for nearly eight years. He is an extremely hardworking, and dedicated attorney. As a criminal defense attorney, he will do everything within his power to fight for his clients rights. Chris is well respected within the legal community. Chris is a genuine person who cares about you whether you are his client or a friend. I recommend Chris to any friend, family member, or stranger in need of a DUI attorney. You will not be disappointed.

    Jennifer Nicolalde, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 23, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have known Christopher Taylor personally and professionally for over 12 years. Chris is an aggressive, hardworking and knowledgeable trial attorney. More importantly, Chris is a good person who cares about his clients and works tirelessly on their behalves. His talent as a litigator and compassion for his clients is why I would strongly recommend him to my friends and family if they ever faced criminal charges. I strongly endorse this attorney.

    Michael Hill, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 21, 2013
    Relationship: Supervised lawyer

    Chris is a superb attorney. He is attentive to the specific needs of each of his clients and works diligently on their cases. He has extensive legal knowledge and I don't hesitate in endorsing him.

    Sara Ross, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 18, 2013
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Chris Taylor is a sensitive, nurturing attorney with a flair for dramatics and excitement in the courtroom. Mr. Taylor is talented, with a keen legal insight and intelligence that serves his clients extremely well. If I or a family member ever got into trouble on a criminal matter, particularly a DUI, my first call would be to Mr. Taylor. I endorse this lawyer.

    David Hammond, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 6, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Dod Ghassemkhani

    I endorse this lawyer.