Paolo Gnocchi Joins Scrofano Law PC After Two Decades of Criminal Defense Experience

Scrofano Law PC has announced the addition of Attorney Paolo Gnocchi to its Maryland criminal defense team, bringing more than two decades of legal experience to the firm. A trilingual trial lawyer fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, Mr. Gnocchi has developed a reputation for fearless advocacy and client-centered representation throughout his career. His extensive courtroom background includes successfully defending clients in some of Maryland's most challenging criminal cases, ranging from traffic offenses to serious felony matters.

Mr. Gnocchi's legal journey began at a respected Rockville law firm before he joined the Baltimore City State's Attorney's Office as an Assistant State's Attorney, where he prosecuted a broad spectrum of cases. In 2004, he transitioned to criminal defense work, joining a boutique firm and later establishing his own practice, the Law Office of Paolo Gnocchi, LLC, in 2009. During his time as a solo practitioner, he represented clients in both Maryland and the District of Columbia, trying and winning hundreds of cases including complex matters such as rape and first-degree murder.

Joseph A. Scrofano, founder and principal attorney of Scrofano Law PC, emphasized the significance of this addition to the firm, stating that Mr. Gnocchi's depth of experience, community roots, and integrity align perfectly with the firm's mission to provide aggressive, compassionate representation to every client. The firm maintains offices in multiple locations including Washington, D.C., Rockville, Maryland, and Fairfax, Virginia, serving clients throughout the region.

Beyond his private practice work, Mr. Gnocchi has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service and justice. He has served as a felony panel attorney with the Maryland Office of the Public Defender and as a CJA-certified attorney before the D.C. Superior Court. From 2009 to 2014, Governor Martin O'Malley appointed him to the Maryland Trial Courts Judicial Nominating Commission, reflecting his standing within the legal community. His expertise has also been recognized through media appearances, including serving as a legal expert on CNN Español and other outlets where he educated the public on criminal law issues.

Mr. Gnocchi's educational background includes graduating magna cum laude from Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan and earning his Juris Doctor from the Catholic University Columbus School of Law. During his law school years, he was appointed Chancellor of the Jessup Cup International Moot Court Team and gained valuable experience through internships with both the U.S. Department of Justice and a criminal-immigration defense firm. His professional recognition includes being featured in Super Lawyers and maintaining high ratings on Avvo, where former clients have described him as top notch and a terrific, caring attorney known for his diligence, empathy, and legal acumen.