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Joseph M. Pacella

Criminal defense Attorney at Springfield, MA

4.9   51 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 25 years
    State MA
    Acquired 1997
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Joseph

Learn Joseph’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    35%
    All state and federal courts in Massachusetts.

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%

  3. Personal injury
    15%
    All state and federal courts in Massachusetts.

  4. Land use and zoning
    10%
    Land Court and state courts.

  5. Litigation
    10%
    All state and federal courts in Massachusetts.

  6. Cannabis Law
    5%

  7. Drug Crime
    5%

AGGRESSIVE AND EXPERIENCED TRIAL ATTORNEY. REGULAR LEGAL EXPERT ON WESTERN MASS NEWS AND OTHER NEWS OUTLETS. ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE HAMPDEN COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION IN 2022 AND 2012.

Having tried several hundred cases, I can certainly argue any set of facts; after more than 26 years in practice, I am confident that I know evidence and the law; but as you can see from my background - I also know virtually all of the players.  This combination has provided my clients with consistently successful and outstanding results.  I have been a resident of Western Massachusetts for my entire life.  After serving as a prosecutor in Hampshire County, I was recruited to work in the litigation department of one of the most prestigious firms in Springfield.  I handled a wide array of civil and criminal litigation as the lead counsel.  

I regularly represent defendants for drunk driving, firearms, larceny (theft) and drug cases.  I also handle all college crimes and casino crimes.  If you stopped at MGM Springfield and were arrested or are facing a criminal violation for something that happened while at an area college, call me now.  These cases can impact your future.

I have helped men and women that have faced offenses that stem from a breakdown of marriage, dating, or other relationships. I have tried hundreds of these cases and have dismissed or plead many hundreds more. As a former domestic violence prosecutor, I understand the cycle of violence and what factors influence fact finders to conclude that the allegations are false. I can help you through your charge of sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, or if a restraining order has been placed against you.  Often, These crimes, if you are convicted, can have serious, long-lasting implications on your future. As a result, you need a strong, knowledgeable, and fearless advocate on your side to help protect your rights and defend your name. When it comes to the law, I do everything I can to help my clients achieve the best possible outcome.  I also use this to represent plaintiffs and defendants on Restraining Orders and c. 285 Criminal Harassment Orders.

If you are dealing with abuse allegations from a present or former spouse, partner, family member, neighbor, student, or significant other, you may feel like you have nowhere to turn. Domestic assault and battery charges are extremely common in the state of Massachusetts and can have serious implications. Many people are faced with false allegations of sexual assault and/or domestic violence in order to sway the outcome of custody and support in divorce proceedings.

These charges may also impact your financial advisor, nursing, teaching, or childcare licenses. I will also assist clients with ancillary mattes which stem from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) involvement, such as investigations and appeals. Schedule a free consultation with me today so you can receive the aggressive and skilled representation that you deserve.

I also regularly represent men and women in all District and Superior courts throughout Western or Central Massachusetts in a wide variety of sexual crimes, including indecent assault and battery, statutory rape, forcible rape, and (aggravated) rape of an adult or child, open and gross lewdness, prostitution, lewd, wanton and lascivious acts, dissemination and possession of obscene materials, and pornography charges.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a sex crime, you need an experienced attorney who will listen to you, investigate thoroughly, and prove your case. You are likely experiencing a range of emotions, from fear and confusion to anger and outrage. Being accused of a sex crime is an extremely serious matter that has the potential for lifelong material consequences. Along with a possible lengthy prison sentence, hefty fees, and a criminal record, sex offenses carry the additional burden of requiring registration as a sex offender.

A sex offense conviction will have severe consequences on your life, employment, and even basic civil rights. It is absolutely critical that you retain the representation of a skilled sex crimes attorney. Your future depends upon it.

I will look closely into suspect police investigative practices to make sure that my client’s rights were not violated. In many cases, motion to suppress the evidence can be filed and successfully argued. I will do whatever is required to prove my client’s innocence.

If you were arrested anywhere in Western or Central Massachusetts, turn to me for trusted, aggressive criminal defense representation. I will work diligently to help you pursue a satisfying result.

Awards

Client's Choice 2020,2019,2018,2017,2016
Client's Choice
2020 2019 2018 + 2 ...

Contact Joseph

Joseph M. Pacella
Law Offices of Joseph M. Pacella
18 Severn Street
Longmeadow, MA, 01106
Law Offices of Joseph M. Pacella
200 North Main Street
East Longmeadow, MA, 01028
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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  51 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2020
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Maria | February 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Defense Lawyer!
My son was accused of a crime. I know everyone says they are innocent. But, he really was innocent. Atty Pacella was honest and upfront from the initial consultation. He has always made himself available by text, phone, or email. When it was time to make a decision about whether or not to go to trial, he explained very thorough all options and potential outcomes. The results were in my son's favor and the case was nullified, which is better than a not guilty verdict. I definitely would rehire Atty Pacella if needed and I highly recommend him.
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Response from Joseph Pacella November 14, 2020
He is a great kid and I am sure that his future will be bright.
Posted by Richard | July 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney!
I am writing this review because it has been very important having Joseph M. Pacella, Esq. to represent me. I found that he was an exemplary attorney with experience, knowledge, and integrity. He was extremely professional and responsive to questions. Mr. Pacella articulated his legal points with the utmost clarity and effectiveness. With Mr. Pacella representing me, my court case had a very positive outcome, thanks to his competence and dedication. I highly recommend him.
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Response from Joseph Pacella November 14, 2020
It was my pleasure.
Posted by Larry | January 29, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my future!
GREAT LAWYER! Will fight for you until the end! Very Smart, and caring. Polite... punctual.. and just an amazing lawyer! If you need a lawyer, he is your GO TO GUY! Joe saved my entire future by getting my case dropped from charges that were falsely accused. Fought for all my rights.. and did not make a decision without me. Can’t stress how happy I am, and how honored I was to be a client of his!
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Response from Joseph Pacella November 14, 2020
It was my honor as well. Best wishes.
Posted by Adam | January 28, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI defense
Trust Joe with your DUI defense. I was found not guilty after being represented by Joe. Will go to him first whenever I need a lawyer.
Posted by Juana | November 9, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer
Attorney Pacella is the best on the business. He is understanding person and the best person to representative us. We had a hard case. These case took two year and we went twice to trial but he was very powerful representative in both trial. If you need the best criminal representation Attorney Pacella is the one for you. I am so glad that we hired Attoney Pacella.
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Posted by anonymous | October 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Underpromises but overdelivers
Attorney Pacella was very straight forward with me. He told me what to expect and the time frames involved. I would STRONGLY recommend anyone needing representation to consider him first. I did not have time to shop around for rates, I just went by what he proposed and it all worked out in my favor. He is very to the point. Once you give him all the facts, he gets to work and very thoroughly too. Thanks Joseph!
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Posted by Jonathan | September 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best criminal defense lawyer
By far the most determined and hard working lawyer. He is an expert on the law and will always do his best. As a client, I admire his dedication. He is a man of the law and will do things by the law. He is always one step ahead. I highly recommend him.
Posted by anonymous | April 8, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
This is a great attorney and I would recommend him to anyone. A+. He did everything in a professional manner and resolved the issue. Was a pleasure to have him represent me. Great Job and Thank You.
Posted by Dan | March 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Criminal defense
Attorney Joseph pacella is an amazing attorney. He recently got me acquitted of very serious charges. I highly recommend his services.
Posted by Edmund | January 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best i have witnessed
In one of my hardest ordeals as a father I was in search of a lawyer that could keep my son out of jail. The case was serious and although I will not share the exact nature of the case I will share that my attorney mr pacella was more than a professional he filled motion after motion to help my son in this case. My son was facing time at only 15 yers old he could be spending time in jail till 21 for the seriousness of the case but mr pacella wouldn’t allow it he was never judge mental toward my family or my son he was a true profesional and did his job so well that people in the courts where in complete shock of the outcome. My son got 2 zyears probation after facing jail time till 21 . I want to say I would recommend mr pacella to anyone a true master of his craft a gentleman and a 100 percent professional. Thank you mr pacella
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Posted by anonymous | November 16, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Defense Attorney
Joe did a great job representing my son. He worked hard and believed in my son's innocence. He was able to get all charges dismissed and justice served. It was a long three years but with Joe's expertise and his ability to sense when something isn't right, he was able to save my son, No words will ever express enough gratitude. Joe will keep digging until he finds the truth,
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Posted by Kerry | November 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
Attorney Pacella listened, was always available and responsive, and worked with our family to defend against false allegations. If you need an attorney you can count on who will work tirelessly on your behalf, Attorney Pacella is your man.
Posted by Ricardo | March 10, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Complaint for protection from harassment
I hired the services of the lawyer joshep pacella and he immediately went to work on the case in an effective way I was accused of sexual harassment and a few other lies but the lawyer gathered all the necessary information to clarify the case and thank God everything is fine now it was clarified that he was not guilty thanks lawyer joshep pacella
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Posted by Eddie | February 2, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Attorney!
Atty Pacella helped me through a difficult time in my life, the results were better than I could have expected. He is a true professional , he was very interested in the outcome for me. I would recommend him to anyone with a legal issue.
Posted by Sean | November 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Civil Harassment Defense
Joe’s insight is spot-on. He is very reachable, versatile in his approach, efficient on short notice, down-to-earth, direct, reliable. He listens well, is honest with you, and makes you feel comfortable and confident as he guides you through the process towards victory.
Response from Joseph Pacella November 14, 2020
Thank you for your kind words. I am truly glad that it worked out.
Posted by Stan And my Daughter Audriana | November 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
100% Recommend!
Joe gave me the best legal guidance prior to none! I never had to hire an attorney beforehand! I was actually the victim of an assault and I still chose Mr. Pacella due to carefully researching the local area. The jury at the the court was heart breaking and found the attacker to be not guilty but he was still there every step of the way. I'm sure once my daughter gets older she'll know you provided my family guidance and I thank you! The justice system can be unjust but be reassured Joseph Pacella cares and he will do anything to give the prosecutor assistance in anyway. I hope you get the best experience as I did and I will continue to thank you Joe. Highly recommend!
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Posted by anonymous | October 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer / Great Outcome & Communication
Hired Joseph due to seeing the way he conducted himself in the courtroom. Had A misdemeanor DV Charge, and. Felony Assault Charge. Within my first *date for a possible offer* Joe came on time, spoke with opposing counsel, and had my felony dropped. My felony held a possible 5 year sentence in state penn. My misdemeanor held a possible 12 months. Looking at a possible 6 years maximum time, with my prior assault charges i was concerned. Joseph got me a great deal. I agreed to pleed out to the misdemeanor, which held a suspended sentence plus probation time. No more gps monitor, Joe got the GPS taken off, ( originally, upon arrest, I was put on GPS and did 35 days in jail until my next court date, JOE WAS NOT my atty when I was originally arrested and given jail time. ) once i appeared in court with Joe, instead of court appointed lawyer , Things went great. Working with Joe, I Got reduced probation stipulations, got rid of my urine testing, my GPS, Felony dropped, etc. Great attorney. To clear things up, I got arrested, violated, and went to jail on no bail til my next court date. On THAT date, Joe did great and got my felony dropped and my stipulations for probation minimized, and I did not go back to jail. Great Lawyer. Always in contact.
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Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible
I was in a bind. I had just been charged with two felonies, and they came in a summons. It was late on a Friday and I called up Mr. Pacella. I was shocked when he picked up and listened to me, it made me feel like I had made the right choice. I immediately hired him to help me out as he was very honest but confident he could help. He informed me the process would take its time but he would be available to me at any point. He held up to his word as I sent emails and texts about my concerns and he quickly replied. As time approached he made me feel safe by his close contact. And due to his incredible attention to detail and contestant work he was able to dismiss the charges against me. I can honestly say hiring Joseph Pacella was the best thing I could have done. He saved me life and kept his promise. He will do the same for you
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Posted by anonymous | April 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Would hire him again in a heartbeat!
Mr. Pacella is professional and on point. He handled my case with care and as if I were a high profile case (It wasn't but when you are in court it is scary and want someone who treats you like you are their only case). Needless to say I would hire him again if I ever needed to. He will defend you like he would defend himself. I would highly recommend.
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Posted by Heather | February 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best choice for criminal Attorney
Attorney Pacella helped me in a most difficult case, when it looked very grim with time to be served attorney Pacella, worked with me patiently and compassionately. I will be forever indebted with the results of my case and would recommend him to anyone who finds themselves in need of a great criminal laywer without him I'm sure the results could've been quite different. All our visits were in his home where I felt comfortable and at ease, his confidence and reassurance are infectious and put me at ease in this most trying time in my life. He was there 24-7 to answer any questions or concerns I had. At no point did Attorney Pacella make me feel ashamed of my wrong doings, he was very supportive and understanding. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking help I know I will never forget all he's done to help me.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Founder
  • Law Office of Joseph M. Pacella
  • 2012 - Present
  • Partner
  • Egan, Flanagan & Cohen, PC
  • 1999 - 2012
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Northwestern District Attorney
  • 1997 - 1999

Education

  • St John's University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • Boston College Law School
  • Visiting Student
  • 1996
  • Colgate University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1994

Legal Cases

  • Pauze, et al. v. Cumberland Farms
  • $650,000 for the Plaintiffs with interest (reduced on remittitur to $511,000 with interest)
  • Aggravated Rape of a Minor
  • Not Guilty
  • Indescent Assault and Battery on a Minor
  • Dismissed at Trial
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Hampden County Bar Association
  • Board of Directors
  • 2001 - Present
  • Hampden County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present
  • Hampshire County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present
  • Hampden County Bar Association
  • President
  • 2021 - 2022
  • Hampden County Bar Association
  • President-Elect
  • 2020 - 2021
  • Joint Bar Committee
  • Member
  • 2016 - 2018
  • Federal Bar Association (Massachusetts chapter)
  • Member
  • 2013 - 2014
  • Hampden County Lawyers for Justice, Inc.
  • Board of Directors
  • 2012 - 2019
  • Hampden County Bar Association
  • President
  • 2012 - 2013
  • Massachusetts Bar Association
  • House of Delegates Member
  • 2012 - 2013
  • Hampden County Bar Association
  • President-Elect
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Western Massachusetts Law Tribune
  • Advisory Board
  • 2004 - 2004
  • Springfield Library & Museums Association
  • Physical Plant Committee
  • 2004 - 2012
  • Mont Marie Child Care Center, Inc.
  • Board of Directors
  • 2004 - 2011
  • Hampden County Bar Association
  • Secretary
  • 2002 - 2002
  • Hampden County Bar Association, New Lawyers Section
  • Chair
  • 2002 - 2002
  • Massachusetts Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2002 - 2014
  • Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys
  • Member
  • 1999 - 2001
  • Hampden County Bar Advocates, Inc.
  • Bar Advocate
  • 1999 - 2002
  • Hampshire County Bar Advocates, Inc.
  • Bar Advocate
  • 1999 - 2016
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1999 - 2001
  • Longmeadow Youth Football Association
  • Board of Directors
  • 1997 - 2015
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyers - Rising Stars
  • Boston Magazine
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Stars
  • Boston Magazine
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Stars
  • Boston Magazine
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Stars
  • Boston Magazine
  • 2008
  • "Forty Under Forty" Most Influential
  • Business West
  • 2007
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Stars
  • Boston Magazine
  • 2007
  • Super Lawyer - Rising Stars
  • Boston Magazine
  • 2006
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Stars
  • Boston Magazine
  • 2005
  • Big Brother of the Year
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampden County
  • 2003
View all awards

Publications

  • Western Massachusetts Law Tribune
  • OUI Conviction - A Scar for Life
  • 2003

Speaking Engagements

  • Pitfalls in Consumer Real Estate Transactions
  • Chapter 93A
  • 2003
  • Handling Depositions with Confidence
  • Depositions
  • 2003

Attorney endorsements

Received (3)
Given (0)
Endorse Joseph
Litigation Attorney | Mar 27
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Atty. Pacella was hired by my company where I was the general counsel on numerous occasions. He handled a wide variety of matters both for the company and for colleagues of mine in personal matters regarding criminal law, criminal and civil litigation, contracts and corporate matters and real estate. Joe is unique as a lawyer that can truly do it all. Working in-house my whole career, he is my first call when I need outside counsel."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Joe is extremely smart and aggressive in defense of his clients. His strategy is second to none and as a former President of the Hampden County Bar Association and former assistant DA, he has great connections within the court system."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Joe is a highly experienced lawyer in Hampden County."
This attorney hasn't created any attorney endorsements recently on Avvo.

Avvo Contributions

94 Legal Answers 0 Legal Guides
Springfield Criminal defense Lawyer Joseph M. Pacella
Joseph M. Pacella
Criminal defense Attorney
Springfield, MA
Licensed for 25 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available