Scrofano Law PC
Criminal Defense Attorney Northern Virginia
Fearless Defense for the Toughest Legal Battles in Northern Virginia.
If you have been charged with a crime in Northern Virginia, you might feel overwhelmed and concerned about your future. When caught up in a criminal justice system that’s anything but just, it’s common to feel unsure of where to turn or who to depend on to make sure that your rights are secured and your liberties protected. No matter what type of criminal charges you are facing, our Virginia criminal lawyers Gretchen Taylor Pousson and Matthew Kensky of Scrofano Law PC are here to help.
Gretchen Taylor Pousson
Leading our Virginia criminal practice group, Gretchen Taylor Pousson brings a unique dual perspective to criminal defense. Her journey from prosecutor to defense attorney has equipped her with invaluable insights into both sides of the courtroom. This distinctive background allows her to anticipate prosecution strategies while crafting robust defense tactics for her clients.
With decades of experience, Gretchen demonstrates an unwavering commitment to transformative justice. Her comprehensive understanding of Virginia’s legal landscape, combined with her strategic approach to case management, makes her a formidable advocate for those facing criminal charges.
Matthew Kensky
Matt Kensky joins Scrofano Law PC with over 25 years of dedicated criminal defense experience in Northern Virginia. Known as “The Professor” among his peers, Matt’s legal skill stems from his foundational years as Senior Assistant Public Defender in Fairfax County to successfully managing his own practice. His career, spanning multiple jurisdictions including Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and Arlington counties, City of Alexandria, Town of Vienna, and Town of Herndon. is marked by significant appellate experience before the Virginia Court of Appeals and the Virginia Supreme Court.
A Virginia native and a graduate of George Mason School of Law, Matt is deeply committed to the principles of justice and individual rights. He takes a client-centered approach to criminal defense, focusing on crafting personalized legal strategies that consider the unique circumstances and needs of each client. This approach ensures that each defense is as thorough as it is robust, aiming to secure the best possible outcome for his clients. Matt’s dedication to advocacy is also evident in his role as an educator; he regularly shares his legal proficiency through continuing legal education programs, establishing himself as a leading authority in criminal and traffic defense law cases and a staunch defender of his clients’ rights.
Our Virginia Criminal Lawyers Are Here to Help
Many criminal defense attorneys view each client as simply a case number rather than as an individual whose future lies in jeopardy. Our attorneys at Scrofano Law PC are different. Our top priority is developing a detailed defense strategy that is customized to the unique facts of your case by personally consulting with you and evaluating the evidence against you.
Without a passionate Virginia criminal lawyer by your side, you remain in danger of being pushed through the criminal justice system in such a way that is convenient for police and prosecutors, but not always in a way that remains in your benefit. You need a lawyer who will defend your rights like they would their own. Our Scrofano Law PC team in Virginia puts their clients first and strives to get their lives back on track.
When it feels like the whole world has turned against you, our Virginia criminal lawyers have your back.
Call our Trial Attorneys to Schedule a Consultation on Your Case
Together, Gretchen and Matt represent the cornerstone of our Virginia criminal practice, based out of their Fairfax office. They offer clients exceptional representation backed by decades of combined experience and an unwavering commitment to justice. Their complementary proficiency and shared dedication to client advocacy make them invaluable assets to those facing legal challenges in Virginia and beyond.
Criminal Lawyers Virginia Practice Areas
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, crimes are classified into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are typically less serious than felony crimes. An individual charged for committing a Class 1 misdemeanor could spend up to 12 months in jail or pay up to a $2,500 fine or both. A DUI, reckless driving, and petit larceny are all Class 1 misdemeanors. A Class 4 misdemeanor is a less serious crime that is not punishable by jail time, only by fines. Other penalties for misdemeanors may include loss of driving privileges and or active probation. Consult with an experience VA attorney at Scrofano Law PC to discuss what you may be facing.
Felony offenses are more serious crimes in the Commonwealth of Virginia. A Class 1 felony is the most severe crime, punishable by life in prison, and/or harsh fines. On the lower end of the spectrum, for committing a Class 6 felony offense, an individual could spend from one to five years in prison.
The felony category covers many different crimes. For example, malicious wounding, possession with intent to distribute, and assault as a hate crime that results in injury to the victim are all felonies. Although some felony charges and convictions are less severe than others, none of them should be taken lightly. Most VA felony crimes have no statute of limitations, meaning those who committed these crimes could be charged even years after the crime occurred.
Bear in mind that a VA criminal conviction can never be expunged, so it will stay on your record permanently, especially when it comes to felony offenses. Experienced criminal defense attorneys can explain the potential consequences of a conviction so you are prepared and know what to expect.
A criminal charge needs to be dealt with in a quick, professional, and thorough manner. Anything less can threaten your liberty and future. Our attorneys have an excellent record of success in litigating tough criminal defense cases. Scrofano Law PC’s Virginia criminal practice group dedicates its practice to criminal defense in Northern Virginia, including:

Assault and Battery
Assault is a crime against a person that involves many different categories of crime and varying levels of severity based on the arrested person’s …

Drug Crimes
Generally, there are three types of drug crimes — possession, possession with the intent to distribute, and distribution.

Federal Crimes
Federal criminal charges are extremely serious and will warrant experienced federal criminal defense counsel.
Dangerous Dog Defense
Has your dog bitten a person or another dog or cat? Have you been charged under the Dangerous Dog Law?

Reckless Driving and Traffic Offenses
In VA, a conviction for a class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense will remain on your DMV (driving) record for 11 years and carries -6 demerit points…

Larceny and Theft
Several types of theft offenses exist in the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia, including first and second-degree theft, first and second-degree fraud…
Gun Offenses
Facing a 1st time gun charge in Virginia? Scrofano Law PC provides legal guidance on navigating gun laws, penalties, and defenses.

Protective Orders
A restraining order is referred to as a Civil Protection Order (or “CPO”). It essentially involves filing a mini-lawsuit against an…

DWI and DUI
Getting a DUI in Fairfax or northern Virginia can be a stressful event that causes lasting consequences to your life.

Juvenile Defense
If you or your child has been charged with a juvenile offense in Fairfax, Virginia, Scrofano Law PC can help.

Sex Crimes
Sexual solicitation and solicitation of prostitution are two misdemeanor crimes in the District of Columbia that typically involve an agreement between two…

Expungements
After a conviction, you may want to know what your options are. Contact a skilled Virginia Expungement Lawyer from Scrofano Law, PC

Domestic Violence
You love your family, but if you have been accused of threatening, attacking, or otherwise harming a family or household member…
Violent Felonies
Virginia violent felonies include unlawful wounding, malicious wounding, aggravated malicious wounding, robbery, assault on police officer, domestic assault…
Who Needs the Help of Virginia Criminal Defense Attorneys?
If you have any reason to believe you are under an investigation or if you are charged with committing a criminal offense, you need to seriously consider hiring a Virginia criminal defense attorney. They would know what could happen next in the criminal case you are involved in and advise you on how best to move forward.
Even though police officers or detectives may seem friendly and “just want to ask you a couple of questions,” make sure you have an experienced attorney by your side. Police may be looking for evidence they can ultimately use against you.
How Can a Criminal Lawyer in VA Help?
Going through a police interrogation without proper legal representation could pose a significant risk. You may think that hiring a criminal lawyer would be a waste of money or that it makes you look guilty. That couldn’t be further from the truth.
Working with a criminal lawyer early in the criminal law case could spare you the necessary stress and even save you money down the road. That is especially true if your criminal defense attorney helps you avoid misdemeanor or felony criminal charges altogether.
If you are charged with a crime, your criminal lawyer could negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecution so that you could face lesser charges.
Our Virginia Criminal Attorneys Have the Experience You Need
Regardless of whether this is your first offense or you are arrested on a felony charge, our criminal defense lawyers will take as much time as you need to ensure that you understand the charges brought against you. Some crimes like larceny, DUI, as well as drug crimes may be either felony or misdemeanor offenses. That is the reason you should talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer to understand your specific criminal charge. If you were arrested for assault and battery, sex crimes, drug crimes, or any other traffic or criminal offenses, it’s best to find a Virginia criminal attorney that will answer your questions and discuss possible outcomes of your case.
Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, Virginia criminal lawyers Gretchen Taylor Pousson and Matthew Kensky will fight to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Gretchen and Matthew have the trial experience needed to help individuals charged with every conceivable crime, both as prosecution and defense, ranging from DUIs and theft to murder.
The Right Virginia Criminal Attorney for Your Case
If you or your loved one have been charged with a criminal offense, finding the right lawyer is crucial. The Virginia criminal defense attorneys at Scrofano Law PC are the right choice, offering seasoned trial experience and a client-focused approach. With Matthew Kensky and Gretchen Taylor Pousson leading the charge, you are in capable hands with attorneys who prioritize your defense and understand the complexities of your case.
Matthew Kensky joins Scrofano Law PC with over two decades of dedicated criminal defense experience across Northern Virginia. Known among his peers as “The Professor”, Matt built his reputation as a Senior Assistant Public Defender in Fairfax County before successfully managing his own practice. His broad legal expertise spans multiple jurisdictions, including Loudoun, Prince William, and Arlington counties, with significant appellate experience before the Virginia Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court. A Virginia native and graduate of George Mason School of Law, Matt is a staunch defender of individual rights, crafting personalized legal strategies to secure the best possible outcomes for his clients. His dedication extends beyond the courtroom, as he actively educates other attorneys through continuing legal education programs, further establishing himself as a leading authority in criminal case law.
Gretchen Taylor Pousson brings over 25 years of trial experience, transitioning from a prosecutor to a passionate defense attorney. Her unique perspective—having worked on both sides of the legal system—allows her to anticipate the prosecution’s tactics and build a strong, strategic defense. Her extensive courtroom experience and deep understanding of Virginia’s criminal laws make her a formidable advocate for those facing criminal charges.
At Scrofano Law PC, you are represented by attorneys who know the system, fight for your rights, and are committed to your defense.
703-546-9898
Contact Our VA Criminal Defense Lawyers
Being accused of a crime can be terrifying. An imperfect justice system has placed a target on your back, and you’re left to jump through hoops while somebody else chooses your fate.
With Gretchen Taylor Pousson and Matthew Kensky of Scrofano Law PC on your side, you can rest assured that your future lies in good hands. Our Virginia criminal lawyer understands how to even the chances when it feels like it’s you against the world. Call 703-546-9898 today to schedule a confidential case assessment and discover how we can make justice work for you rather than against you.






