Rhode Island Criminal Defense Lawyer

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Why Hire RI Criminal Lawyer John Calcagni

We have a proven track record for success in the courtroom, including trials and appeals, and have the resources to develop a winning defense.

Former Federal Prosecutor
Army JAG
Licensed in Multiple State and Federal Jurisdictions
Unmatched Trial Record for Winning Verdicts
RI Superlawyer (most recently selected for 2018)
New England Superlawyer
Fully Staffed Criminal Defense Firm
Bilingual Criminal Defense Firm
Awarding Winning Criminal Defense Attorney
Top Attorney for Criminal Defense in New England
Accredited Lawyer of Distinction
America’s Top 100 Attorneys
Top 10 Best American Institute of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Our firm provides personalized, successful and expert representation for clients in need of a criminal defense attorney in state, federal and military courts. Our team is 100% dedicated to providing the best possible criminal defense for all types of crimes, from misdemeanors to include the most serious felonies.

We are licensed to practice in both state and federal courts in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York and Florida, and provide world-wide representations to our military service members facing separation or court-martial.

Criminal law cases we handle

Rhode Island Criminal Case Timeline

For more details see – Criminal Case Timeline

If you believe you have been charged with a new offense and seek to be released on bail, contact the bail hearing attorneys at the Law Office of John L. Calcagni III by email or call today at (401) 351-5100 to schedule a free consultation.

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(401) 351-5100

Rhode Island Criminal Lawyer Drug Attorney John Calcagni

John Calcagni is the best of the best. I retained him multiple times to represent me in various military matters, to include administrative separation. John is an expert in his field. He is knowledge, professional, caring and aggressive. He has obtained nothing but top results and success on my behalf. I recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. If you want the number one lawyer in your corner, John is your man.

isaac kimble

02:28 08 Aug 18

I had the pleasure of working with John and his team this past year and I couldn't be happier with the service I received. John and his team were professional, courteous and most of all incredibly effective. If I ever need legal services again I will definitely engage John Calcagni and his outstanding team again.

Andrew Michaud

13:21 21 Sep 18

I highly recommend John Calcagni and his team. My daughter attends college in RI and we live in NY. She found herself in trouble and was arrested on a Disorderly Conduct matter. Our good friend is an attorney in NY and when we realized he could not represent us in RI he found a colleague who highly recommended John. From the first conversation with John, who responded to my initial message immediately, I knew we would be in good hands. He answered all questions and explained the process in as much detail as needed. He was very confident that he would get the charges dismissed. He worked closely with my daughter (his client) while keeping in touch with us, the parents. John was always attainable to us via email, text or phone call and took his time to be sure we understood each step of the case. John delivered the outcome he promised and exactly what we were looking for, we couldn't be more pleased. I would not hesitate to recommend him and (god forbid) I need assistance with the law in RI again, he would be the first call I make!! Thanks John for everything you did for our daughter!!! Mary and Wayne DeBello

MARY DEBELLO

18:23 11 Sep 18

I don’t know where to begin! When I first met with John, I immediately felt like I was in good hands. He is charismatic, funny and really takes the time to get to know you and get a feel for your case. He was very detail oriented and thorough and worked with me for almost two years. Through this exhausting and stressful process, he made me feel comfortable and made sure I understood what was going on every step of the way. I am so thankful I went with John and would absolutely, without a doubt recommend him to anyone who needs help.

Jen Marie

22:33 23 Jun 18

I'm an active duty soldier and I got a DUI. I deserved the penalties and reprimands but I did not deserve to loose everything. When I was notified that I would be facing a QMP board for separation I knew I had to do all I could to fight back against it for myself and for my family. I am extremely grateful for John and his team. I had no idea about the list of standards I was up against that the board would use to determine weather or not I could keep my job and continue to support my family. Mr. Calcagni systematically itemized and proved beyond a doubt that I met and or exceeded each standard giving the board a clear picture that I still hold value to the Army. He took my personal side and my professional side along with all the legal points and drafted a rebuttal that saved my career. Had I attempted to go against the board on my own I would have surely been denied. Not because I deserved it, but because it is a battle that soldiers are not equipped to deal with on their own and the Army provides zero support. It's terrifying to think back about all that I was up against that I didn't even know about. John and his team come highly recommended and I can't thank them enough for leveling the playing field and placing the control of my career back into my hands. My family and I are forever grateful.

John Madden

18:11 05 Sep 18

We retained John and firm for a police investigation. An investigation had begun with possible charges to follow. We knew we needed help. In looking at Johns CV I was most happy with his background and hired him immediately. John actually came over to our home, and talked about everything. He was wonderful. Great personality. Great knowledge of the court system and the law. John made sure it was known that we had hired him. He spoke to all and the investigation was dropped and no charges were followed.

Susan Richberg

17:55 24 Jan 19

Great man John Calcagni! He is so gentle and nice, did excellent jobs and professionally as always. He is more like a friend, listening and guiding you throughout the difficulties whenever you need him. Thanks for his awesome job brings me and my family reunion again. The best lawyer you can have in RI area.

dianjie jiang

07:11 18 Dec 18

I am a retired military officer that needed John to keep my 20yrs of service and retirement in tact. I was being blasted from all sides with a bunch high ranking folks trying to smear, discredit, and erase me. John put up a defense that made me very humble. In the end, I was able to retire honorably and keep some sense of accomplishment. He is an attorney with guts and a mastery of the law. I thank him for his service and would recommend John to anybody.

Peter Lawrence

15:06 22 Dec 18

John Calcagni and his team were extremely helpful with my case from start to finish. They were hard working and devoted to getting me the best outcome possible. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone who needs a well experienced team that can help you in the most difficult of times.

kevin vilao

18:21 12 Jan 19

I’ve never met anyone in life quite like John! He is a driven, compassionate, confident person who will fight for what is right. He is trustworthy and effective. I recommend him without any reservations!

Eric Ricci

22:12 02 Jan 19

I was recommended to John's office and him and his staff were great! He is extremely knowledgeable and helpful educating his clients. His staff and John are readily available to answer any questions at any time of day. Great company, I would highly recommend to all!

Karyn Ashley Roda

20:51 28 Jan 19

I am extremely happy & blessed to have come across John. He is very respectful and Pleasant. John makes sure you are aware of everything that is happening with your case and always makes sure he answers all of your questions. He is very smart and very easy to work with. Go see him!!

Zaira Bello

16:45 25 Feb 19

I am an Army Officer who retained Attorney John L. Calcagni III to assist with an unfortunate issue that adversely impacted my military career. John is a former Army JAG with a great deal of military law experience. If you have a military law issue (administrative or court-martial) and wish to hire civilian counsel, Attorney Calcagni is your top choice. John is responsive, knowledgeable, well-spoken, well-written, and overall, a true professional and expert in his field. I would not hesitate to call upon John again if I ever need legal representation again for an issue involving my military career. He is second to none and stands heads and shoulders above his peers. If you are in need of civilian defense counsel, call him today. You won’t be disappointed.

Justin Maroney

03:04 18 Feb 19

John is a straight shooter... I was referred to John from another attorney that I have complete trust in and needed to clear a case that could have crippled my work. John did that he was on the case and was able to completely clear the air. What better news then CASE COMPLETELY GONE, DROPPED! Great law firm! JC! Thank you!

Jeff Goyette

19:55 29 Jan 19

I am a former Cadet of the United States Coast Guard Academy. In 2017 I found myself threatened by false accusations which had the potential of putting me at risk of court martial. After being blindsided by military leaders I once trusted and being held against my will in an emergency room to receive a mental evaluation, me and my family decided it was time to hire an attorney. John was my saving grace at times when I felt completely alone and had nobody on my side. As a 21 year old, I was not ready to be fighting the military let alone any run-of-the-mill legal battles. John protected me from the deceptive tricks used by investigators and advised me throughout the year-long investigation. Afterwards, we spent 4 exhaustive months together drafting appeals to my unfavorable discharge. For nearly a year and a half John constantly made time for me, regardless of arguably more pressing cases he had going on. After my final appeal I was honorably discharged from the Coast Guard which is a result I am completely satisfied with. John is personable, hardworking, and will make time for you no matter what. John is a no BS attorney and will tell it to you straight, there will be no need to doubt yourself with him on your side.

Ian McSherry

16:20 18 Mar 19

Wow! This guy is unreal. He went above and beyond for me! I am so lucky to have him as my lawyer. If it wasn’t for him I don’t know how my case would of went. Having him on my side gave my family and me a sense of well being. I’m truly blessed. I don’t think there is a better lawyer out there!

Brett Lesuer

04:06 06 Apr 19

I can't express how grateful I am to John Calcagni. He helped my family through a very difficult time with confidence and compassion. I don't know what would have happened without John on our side. He and his staff are incredible!

Kathleen Lesuer

19:57 05 Apr 19

Mr. Calcagni was very personable and down to earth. He explained every step thoroughly. John always was there when I had questions and was able to answer them. I would definitely recommend him to anyone with legal issues. Thank you again John for a job well done!

Andy Roux

23:00 09 Apr 19

John Calcagni is amazing! From start to finish, I felt as though I was working with someone I had known all of my life. John is very compassionate and helps to make you feel at ease in a VERY stressful time. He is very thorough and takes his job very seriously. John and his staff are great to work with and I would recommend them to anyone.

Angellique Chandler

23:00 09 Apr 19

I hired John's firm after my arrest in Aug of 2017. John and his staff were very knowledgeable and attentive to my case. We were trying to get evidence suppressed from my arrest which unfortunately we lost the motion. Even when the motion was lost John and Nicole were diligent and determined to continue to fight for the best outcome for me. John's office was committed right up to my sentencing and we were able to get probation and avoided jail time, which was a very good outcome for my case.Nobody can predict what will happen in a court case and no outcome is guaranteed, however it should be known that this firm will represent you and fight hard for the best outcome from the minute you hire them until your case is dismissed, won or you are sentenced.I am happy to have hired John and relieved with the outcome in my case. I was faced with fear, doubt and confussion when i was arrested. John was able to help with all the feelings and allow for a good outcome.Thank you.

Greg

19:18 13 Apr 19

Back in 2017 I got myself into some trouble while struggling with personal problems. Without getting too in depth I was facing jail time and the forever scarring mark of a felony on my record. I’m so thankful I came across calcagni law. John represented me through both district and superior court. Not only did he successfully dismiss the felony charge but he also made me completely avoid jail time. His professionalism and insight is amazing, he truly is the best. I couldn’t recommend John more if you ever have a bump in the road. I put my full faith and trust in calcagni law firm. John, thank you again for everything, especially for helping me to be able to be around for my beautiful wife and daughter. I owe you more than can be described.

Zachery Crosby

23:51 18 Apr 19

John went above and beyond my expectations. He is very knowledgeable, does his homework thouroughly, and knows how to win.i saw only one trial before mine. Compared to John , it looked like a theatrical play of what a bad lawyer is like. John was confident and in control at all times, due to the fact that he was obviously extremely well prepared. I would highly recommend John. He definitely went the extra Mile for me! Be assured, he is worth every penny!

Raymond Lapointe

19:33 04 May 19

John and his staff were amazing. While facing the most difficult time of my life, John went out of his way to ensure I got the best possible deal. He worked with my family and I on a fair and easy payment plan, and he was there for me every step of the way. He would meet me before all court dates and explain how everything would go down and he was spot on every time. He eased my mind tremendously going into stressful situations. Thank you John and staff for working so hard for us, and for affording me precious extra months with my family.

stephen Langlois

01:00 27 May 19

I am beyond happy with John! He is a very profesional person & so easy to talk to. I would recommend him to anybody! Last weekend my daughter needed him the most & was there guiding me every step of the way. He made sure I understood what was happening. The best of the best!

Zaira Casanova

14:04 01 Jun 19

John Calcagni is a great lawyer. He helped me out in a very difficult court case and everything worked out great for me like he said it would. He was readily available when I had questions. He is easy to talk to and is very knowledgeable.

Anthony Valdes

13:59 02 Jun 19

I gave John five star because I can't give more then that on this review. He's the best lawyer in town. I'll recommend him 💯 percent

Ana

11:21 01 Jun 19

Attorney Calcagni is the best criminal defense attorney around. Answering all my questions and his availability is very open to discuss in person. I recommend him to anyone looking for a defense attorney in Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Peter Varjabedian

01:57 03 Jun 19

Five stars is an understatement. John Calcagni and his legal team were nothing short of amazing. From the initial consultation to the case being resolved they were professional and had one goal in mind. That's representing me as a client and accepting nothing less then a best case scenario outcome. Charges being dismissed. I highly suggest you getting legal representation no matter what your legal situation may be and for the best outcome settle for nothing less then the BEST JOHN CALCAGNI and his legal firm!!

A R

19:43 30 Jun 19

John and his whole firm were wonderful! Very attentive and professional. I could not be happier with me result. I highly recommend John Calcagni and his law firm.

Jason Drapeau

16:44 01 Jul 19

john is a highly skilled defense attorney as well as an accomplished legal scholar. he possesses a vast knowledge of legal theory and precedent and effectively applies that to the case at hand.he provided me with a full understanding of the different ways my case could develop as it progressed thru the system, therefore allowing me to make the most logical choices as we brought the case to a conclusion.further, he was always available, either in person or via various other means of contact, to answer any questions i had and to offer advice when needed.

04:41 04 Jul 19

A great law firm. John is a fantastic lawyer. Always on top of everything and his response rate is outstanding. Day or night. Him and his associate John pensa are wonderful. So happy we found them

Tra Oliver

02:29 09 Jul 19

John and his staff were amazing.While facing one of the most difficult times of my life,John went above and beyond to ensure I got the best possible outcome from my case.He made sure before and after all court appearances I understood how everything would go down he was always on point.He and Nikki always eased my mind with all my questions and concerns with my stressful situation. My charges were dismissed and sealed.John will forever be a friend to myself and my family. I highly recommend John and his legal staff no matter what legal situation you have for the BEST IN YOUR STATE.

Krystal

21:56 12 Jul 19

John was an invaluable resource during my recent legal issue. Having never been in this situation before, I found John’s contact info online and gave the office a call. I was able to speak to John himself and made an appointment to meet with him later that night outside of normal business hours, which I was grateful for. When I met with him he was very professional and empathetic to my situation. After learning a bit about him and his career and accomplishments, he provided me with all the information I needed and explained the next steps and processes; I had no reservation in retaining him once I met with him. While everything was eventually dismissed, I’m glad he was there to communicate with law enforcement on my behalf so I could focus on moving forward. I would never hesitate to retain him again.

C T

21:02 21 Jul 19

Super Lawyer! John and his staffs saved me from an emergent legal situation in New Bedford. They successfully bailed me out and defended it for me all the way down. Today they amazingly got my case dismissed. My family are so happy and grateful! I would definitely recommend John to anyone who needs legal support!

Xiang Gu

21:14 22 Jul 19

John and his team are a fantastic group. Mr. Calcagni is a very knowledgeable and is the best of the best at what he does. I highly recommend anybody that is seeking an attorney to contact his firm immediately! Very easy to talk to, answers calls and texts right away. Very pleased with my experience.

Kyle Smith

20:19 24 Jul 19

John is a great attorney. He is very knowledgeable of military law and procedures. He is very positive and makes you feel safe and secure. Our family is very glad we chose John Calcagni. We highly recommend him!!

Alex Shin

15:03 12 Aug 19

Attorney John Calcagni and his team went above and beyond to ensure I received the best possible outcome with my case. Throughout the entire process, I was very well represented, informed and never had to worry about anything. John and his staff are professional, knowledgeable, accommodating and efficient. They were on top of everything! The service I received was tremendous. I highly recommend John and his team to anyone in need of legal support.

Chelsey

14:02 17 Aug 19

By far one of the best attorneys I’ve talked to even before the case was started. Very knowledgeable about the situation and helpful through out the process. So thankful he was recommended

alyse megan

17:31 19 Aug 19

We were beyond lucky to have John Calcagni recently represent my son. John is professional and thorough. He was diligent with his research and showed great patience and empathy for me. He is a terrific listener and has excellent people skills on top of his legal prowess. If you need top-notch representation, John Calgagni should be your first call. Thank you, John!

Sharon Proulx

20:06 23 Aug 19

Atty. Calcagni was extremely helpful and effective in handling a difficult military matter for my daughter as she transitioned from a college ROTC program into the US Navy. His experience as a former JAG attorney and knowledge of military procedures and regulations was invaluable in guiding my daughter through the process. He was always responsive, professional, and caring. Even following up months later he remembered the details of my daughter's case . Highly recommended.

H John Keimig

14:45 31 Aug 19

John and his team are excellent! He took my case to trial where the DA thought they had a sure win and he turned it around and got me a win. It was amazing seeing John live in action. He is as good as if not better of what you see in the Youtube videos of him in the court room. I am truly impressed and highly recommend!

ryu91482

15:02 05 Sep 19

John is an excellent, professional attorney who one can depend upon. He gets the job done for his clients and puts their fears and worries in his own hands. He is outstanding and has been a trusted professional for many yearsI highly recommend him for any serious and sensitive matter

Kristen Mauro

23:15 11 Sep 19

Attorney John Calcagni came highly recommended through family. He’s represented my husbands family for a few criminal cases and has done an amazing job. John was right there from the moment my husband was bailed out and worked diligently from beginning to end. I’ve never had any issues contacting John at any time night or day, he will respond. John is like having a lawyer at your hands 24/7. He has always made me feel welcome anytime I’ve had to visit his office. When my son found himself with some legal issues John didn’t hesitate to take my sons case which had a great outcome. There’s been several situations over the last three years where I’ve needed legal representation and if he wasn’t able to personally be there for me John made sure he referred me to a trusted colleague. My family is finally done with these legal issues but if at any time we found ourselves in need of representation, we wouldn’t hesitate to call John.

Stephanie Davis

00:22 14 Sep 19

John is quite simply a brilliant attorney. He's represented me in a series of related legal issues, and no matter the stakes he is up to the challenge of every case. He's an amazing communicator and litigator...unsurpassed expertise displayed most recently during my military separations board. Retaining John is your best chance at achieving a successful outcome!

Sid Hall

23:02 15 Sep 19

You are always met with a professional and determined focus, whether you are scheduled for a morning appointment or after the attorneys have returned from a long day in court. Mr. Calcagni is able process the details and then walk someone through various potential courses of action. His ability to provide experienced guidance in a grounded and direct manner sets his office apart from competitors. In addition to one-on-one meetings, the office staff are quick to reach by phone in case you need any other support services.

John Krauss

18:06 23 Sep 19

I would like to thank you Mr C. For the way you handled my brothers case. You are an awesome attorney. Always on time. You fight as if your life depends on it. We are grateful we came across you!!! There isn’t enough stars on here for your honest hard work. Thank you once again. May God Bless you!!!

Irene Vega

22:06 24 Sep 19

John Calcagni has been my lawyer for a number of years and has proven nothing but commitment and quality with his services. He is always available in a timely fashion, and has been able to help me with a number of legal services thanks to his extensive legal knowledge. I recommend him as well as his firm members to anyone looking for a great legal team!!

Gianna George

22:58 03 Oct 19

We are appreciative of John and his team. We live out of state, so I was dependent on reviews to select an attorney to handle our issue. John returned phone calls quickly, even calling several Friday evenings after 9pm to update us. We appreciated the professional manner he quickly handled multiple situations, wrapping everything up a month earlier than anticipated. I would highly recommend John to anyone in need of an attorney!

anne gonzalez

00:12 29 Oct 19

I would highly recommend John Calcagni & Associates. On two separate occasions I had the pleasure of having them represent me. They worked hard and diligently to have both my cases dismissed in separate states. They are very professional, easy to communicate with, and will go above in beyond for you. If in the future I needed an attorney, I wouldn’t hesitate to outreach them again for their services.

Dan Pab

14:14 24 Nov 19

John is a very professional attorney. I reached out to his office late in the evening and got accepted and consulted with John the same night. Very patient. Very satisfied with his work. Highly recommend John!!! I wish to give him 10 stars but it only allows 5 stars here!!!

Henry Kim

19:25 05 Dec 19

John was hands down the best. Extremely supportive and always true to his word. Thankful to have found him! No one else could compare!

Alex Medeiros

00:01 08 Dec 19

John provided honest answers to all my questions. Was very available whenever I called, Extremely happy with his results while he represented me! Highly recommend to anyone who has legal issues.

Alex Tomasso

04:56 09 Dec 19

John C. and John P. were fantastic! They made the whole process less stressful. If I ever had need of legal services again they would be my first call. I wish I could give them more than five stars. They were professional and reassuring. Most of all they cared. I'm very happy with my experience and will suggest them to anyone I know if they are ever in need. If you need legal counsel these are the guys you want.

Phil Scavitti

01:43 21 Dec 19

Having unfortunately had more than my fair share of complex encounters with the criminal justice systems in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts, I can without a doubt tell you that these are the guys you want behind you in any legal situation. Every positive asset that would put an attorney at the top ranks, these men display for all of their clients. Not only are they pro's at what they do, but they genuinely care about every client they meet. I don't just know I have the best lawyers around, I feel like I have two people that have and will forever continue to look after me like I am apart of their family. If you're looking for not just another 5 star attorney, but for that one person that will go that extra mile for you, then these are your guys. I have and will continue to recommend them to everyone I meet with any legal issue. Trust me when I say the Johns will not disappoint!

Nicholas Silvernail

21:17 07 Jan 20

This man is a beast! His professionalism, and his work ethic are second to none. When dealing with a legal issue, there is very little you are in control of. John was able to provide comfort, and optimism during an extremely challenging time. I’m incredibly happy with my decision to hire Mr. Calcagni.

Matthew Koban

11:54 27 Jan 20

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Why Hire RI Criminal Lawyer John Calcagni

Criminal law cases we handle

Rhode Island Criminal Case Timeline

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(401) 351-5100

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