After conducting thorough research and consulting with Attorney John Pensa, I determined that he was the most suitable choice for legal representation. His extensive knowledge and experience in the field are unparalleled. The level of dedication and attention he gives to his clients is exceptional. Attorney Pensa is easily approachable and offers candid feedback. I am grateful to have partnered with his team and would not hesitate to seek their services again in the future.
Massachusetts Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Extensive Trial Experience as a Former Federal Prosecutor.
- Proven Track Record of Successful Trial and Other Results for Clients.
- More than One Decade of Criminal and Military Defense.
Top Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney
Experienced in Federal, Criminal and Military Defense
At the New Bedford, MA Criminal Defense Law Office of John L. Calcagni III we strive to provide aggressive, experienced, and effective representation to our clients. Our firm has been serving the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for over a decade and is prepared to assist you with all matters of criminal defense, military defense, and Federal Criminal Defense. If you are not in the area we are available to assist you as well in Rhode Island, New York, and Florida, as well.
Free consultation offered in our offices, your home, or detention facility. Call us at (508) 213-9113

MA Criminal Defense
If you have been accused or charged of a crime in Massachusetts, you need a highly experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to defend your case. Call the Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Office of John L. Calcagni, III today for a free consultation.

Federal Crimes
In the event that you require the services of a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney, it's crucial to secure the representation of a legal professional with extensive familiarity with the federal justice system. Certain areas of legal practice demand a higher level of experience and expertise, and Federal Criminal Defense certainly falls into this category.

Military Defense
With a background as a seasoned prosecutor for both the US Army JAG Corps and the US Attorney's Office, Attorney Calcagni boasts an exceptional understanding of both the prosecution and defense sides of military criminal proceedings. This wealth of knowledge grants him the unparalleled ability to mount a powerful defense for clients facing trial in Military Court for a range of criminal offenses."
John L. Calcagni, III
- Army JAG
- Licensed in Multiple State and Federal Jurisdictions
- Unmatched Trial Record for Winning Verdicts
- 2022 SuperLawyer and Top Ten Attorneys 2022
- RI Superlawyer 2022
- Fully Staffed Criminal Defense Firm
- Bilingual Criminal Defense Firm
- Accredited Lawyer of Distinction
- America’s Top 100 Attorneys
- Top 10 Best American Institute of Criminal Defense

Testimonials From Our Clients
What our past clients say about us
Our Best Work
Recent Case Results
Gain insight into our exceptional criminal defense expertise by browsing our latest successful cases. We tackle misdemeanors, felonies, military charges, and federal criminal charges with a unique approach and strategic plan, ensuring our clients are confident in overcoming their legal obstacles. Check out our recent case results below.
Calcagni Gets Results
Law Office of John L. Calcagni III
On September 22, 2015, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court handed down a landmark decision in the matter of Commonwealth v. Elivette Rodriguez, holding that the odor of marijuana alone is not a sufficient basis for police to conduct a motor vehicle stop.
View Our Video LibraryAreas of Practice
Hiring the best criminal defense lawyer experienced with felony and misdemeanor defense in all Rhode Island trial courts is essential to achieve the best results on your criminal case. For more details on criminal defense or military defense click the links below:

Facing Criminal Charges in Massachusetts?
Request a Free Consultation
We want our clients to feel positive about our law firm handling their criminal cases; that’s why we offer free consultations. These free consultations allow clients to sit down with the criminal defense lawyer handling their case. Your defense attorney can share thoughts on your options, potential defense strategies, and the best way to move forward. If you’re accused of a crime, contact the criminal defense law firm of John L. Calcagni, III today to schedule a free consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
At the Law Offices of John L. Calcagni, III, we acknowledge that being charged with a crime can be overwhelming and confusing. Our goal is to guide you through the criminal justice process and provide you with peace of mind. To help clarify the Massachusetts criminal law and the role of a criminal defense lawyer, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers.
Where are the courts in Massachusetts?
Go to Massachusetts Courts to find a complete list of all courts in Massachusetts.
How does the Massachusetts criminal process looks like?
The felony criminal case process in Massachusetts include:
- Arrest
- Arraignment
- Probable Cause Hearing
- District Court, Dismissal or Indictment
- Pre-Trial Hearing
- Discovery
- And more
To view all the felony criminal case process in MA with details of each part of the process check out the Massachusetts Felony Criminal Case Timeline.
What does the Massachusetts criminal justice system looks like?
The criminal justice system in Massachusetts is comprised of both trial and appellate courts. Trial courts are where factual disputes are resolved and a defendant’s guilt or innocence is determined. Appellate courts review decisions of trial courts for mistakes or errors. Generally speaking, a party dissatisfied with the decision of a trial court can appeal the decision to an appellate court. The appeals court may approve the trial court findings; overrule, disapprove or overturn them; or send the case back down to the trial court for it to conduct additional fact finding.
Continue Reading about the Massachusetts Criminal Justice System

Award Winning Defense Attorney in New Bedford, MA
Selected as a SuperLawyer and Top 10 Attorney 2022
At the New Bedford, MA Criminal Defense Law Office of John L. Calcagni III we strive to provide aggressive, experienced, and effective representation to our clients. Our firm has been serving the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for over a decade and is prepared to assist you with all matters of criminal defense, military defense, and Federal Criminal Defense. If you are not in the area we are available to assist you as well in Rhode Island, New York, and Florida, as well.
Our lead counsel Criminal Defense Attorney John L. Calcagni, III is a former prosecutor of the esteemed US Army JAG Corps as well as a Special Assistant US Attorney. Building on his experience with the military Attorney Calcagni is able to handle almost any type of case as he has personally seen and handled nearly every type of criminal case in his storied career. Because of this ability, Attorney Calcagni will be able to quickly and efficiently strategize and handle your case. As a Military Defense Lawyer Attorney Calcagni is able to defend those who have been accused of crimes in the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces as well as the U.S. Army Court Of Criminal Appeals.
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Latest News & Articles
If you’re interested in learning more about criminal law, tips for handling legal issues, or how an experienced Rhode Island attorney can help you, be sure to check out our News & Articles section. We frequently share helpful information through legal blogs and summaries of current events involving major cases and investigations. Understanding more about the criminal justice system and criminal law can be a valuable tool for a wide range of circumstances.
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