Skip to main content

John P Larochelle

Family Attorney at Providence, RI

5.0   46 reviews

also known as Larochelle Law, John P. Larochelle, Esquire

Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • State Years
    Massachusetts - MA 23 years
    Rhode Island - RI 29 years
  • Licensed for 23 years
    State MA
    Acquired 2000
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 29 years
    State RI
    Acquired 1994
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Family
    26%

  2. Criminal defense
    24%

  3. DUI and DWI
    11%

  4. Divorce and separation
    10%

  5. Juvenile law
    10%

  6. Child custody
    9%

  7. Expungement
    5%
    All of Attorney Larochelle’s successful motions are followed up with detailed orders directing the appropriate agencies to completely destroy all records, photographs, and documents associated with the charged offense.

  8. Marriage and prenuptials
    5%

AGGRESSIVE, DEDICATED, AND EXPERIENCED FAMILY LAW AND CRIMINAL LAW REPRESENTATION.

Achieving outstanding results for my clients is worth the time that it takes to be thoroughly prepared for aggressive advocacy. I am a former Rhode Island state prosecutor who has represented clients in complex and highly sensitive litigation matters in Rhode Island Family Court and in District, Superior, Supreme and Federal Court in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

For all legal matters, I review the facts and evidence, researching the law that is applicable to those facts. Thereafter, I give great consideration to making strategic and tactical decisions specific for each case. I discuss with you my proposed strategy, remaining open-minded to your input. Throughout the process, I am happy to answer all of your questions so that you know our plan and what to expect.

I am the most competitive attorney I know. I perform well under pressure. I don't give up; I find a way to win. I never save anything for the swim back.

In Family Court, I have litigated many types of cases, including Grandparents Rights, complex divorces, contentious child custody matters, and ordinary, less contentious divorce and custody situations. I am certified by the Rhode Island Family Court as a Guardian Ad Litem. In 2022, I received a Certificate in Child and Family Forensic Issues from the Center for Excellence for Children, Families, and the Law at William James College.  

I prosecute and defend Restraining Order Motions and Protection from Abuse Orders in Family Court, District Court, and Superior Court. 

In Criminal defense advocacy, I apply my extensive criminal law knowledge and experience to representing clients in all criminal matters - from serious felonies such as murder, sex crimes, and distribution of controlled substances – to misdemeanor cases such as domestic assaults and traffic-related offenses. I have litigated over one hundred DUI cases.

At my most recent jury trial, my co-counsel and I received a not-guilty verdict on all counts in a First Degree Sexual Assault case.  The state's offer was fifteen years imprisonment. We fought back and won. 

I represent clients in state and federal courts in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. I am admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States of America. In 2021, in my latest appeallate case, I won on behalf of my client before the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. 

I have written and argued well-known cases before the Rhode Island Supreme Court, including prevailing against then-Attorney General (now U.S. Senator) Sheldon Whitehouse in the seminal case of Diane S. Cronan ex rel. State v. John J. Cronan 774 A.2d 866. I have also written and argued often-cited cases such as State v. Paull and State v. Chalk.

Call me at or to discuss your legal matter now at no cost. 

Photos and videos

View more

Contact John

Larochelle Law
1 Turks Head Pl Ste 1440
Providence, RI, 02903

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  46 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Posted by Keith Olson | December 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Litigator!
Very professional and his oral arguments and cross were sharp and pointed. Attorney Larochelle didn't shy away from having to apply heavy litigation pressure that was much needed in my more complex custody case, whereas both of my previous attorneys would only seem to put effort in on the morning of a hearing. Lastly, thank you John for always being available when I needed your advice regardless of day or time, that helped a lot! -Keith
Read less
Response from John Larochelle December 28, 2021
Thank you, Keith, for sharing my thorough preparation and my aggressive litigation skills. I have a strong will to win and want to be the most prepared person in the room whenever I have a court hearing.
Posted by Curtis | March 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Lawyer
In 2005 I hired John Larochelle to change custody to me from my ex-wife. I knew that this would be almost impossible as I lived in Texas and my Ex-wife and daughters ages 3 and 4 lived in Rhode Island. Mr. Larochelle argued my case in family court and won! My Ex-wife attorney then argued this case with the Rhode Island Supreme court which put a hold on me bringing my daughters back to Texas on a technicality as the presiding judge did not stipulate the reason of the changed custody in the court documents. Mr. Larochelle argued my case again with a new trial and was granted full custody and I brought them back to Texas. 15 yrs. later I am writing this review because without Mr. Larochelle my daughters’ lives would be certainly different. I am proud to say my oldest has enlisted in the USAF and younger daughter has been accepted to the University of Texas to study neurology
Read less
Response from John Larochelle April 16, 2020
It is tremendously gratifying to have had a meaningful impact on your children's lives. Thank you for your kind words. "In nothing, great or small, large or petty—never give in, except to convictions of honour and good sense." - W. Churchill
Posted by ALPESHKUMAR | February 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I got Unbelievable and Unexpected result in my favour in short time.
I contacted John in the evening to address a bad situation that was getting worse. John got back to me within 15 minutes. I discussed my problem with John and hired him the next day. John always updated me about negotiations he was having had with the other side - emails and phone calls. In the end, John got a better result than I expected. John Larochelle is my lawyer for life.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle April 16, 2020
I recall the night that you called me. It was my pleasure to show you that I was able to start working immediately to deliver a result that was better than you expected.
Posted by Jason | April 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer in RI
John literally saved my life. I am eternally grateful to him. He defended my innocence and did not stop until the truth prevailed!
Response from John Larochelle April 5, 2021
We left no stone unturned in order to achieve a well-deserved victory. Thank you for sharing our success.
Posted by anonymous | December 31, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Citizenship
First of all I would like to thank John for the unbelievable result he got me when my now ex partner leveld domestic abuse charges against me. He truly went above and beyond to help and was a calming figure in an otherwise extremely stressful time. When I first me John I explained to him that I was not a US citizen and I was worried that my path to citizenship would be stopped by this allegation. John through his legal expertise was able to get the charges dismissed at the pretrial hearing, which was an even better result than either one of us had anticipated, ensuring that my path to US citizenship remained open and clear. I could not recomend any one better to legally represent you. Thank you again John
Read less
Response from John Larochelle January 2, 2021
Getting better-than-expected results is one of the most gratifying aspects of finding outside-of-the-box solutions, leaving no stone unturned, and finding a way to win. I never save anything for the swim back. Thank you for your review.
Posted by anonymous | April 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Beyond-belief legal service - thank you, John!
I contacted John Larochelle about an emergency Family Court matter concerning my young child. I was astounded at John’s dedication to my crisis. I sent an email to him at 10:00 pm. I received John’s thorough response at 2:00 am. Not being able to sleep because of this stressful emergency, I replied back to him at 4:20 am. My phone rang at 5:15 am. It was John, who took 40 minutes to explain our best course of action, what I needed to do to help him achieve my goal, and what he would be doing. The rest of the day, John answered all of my texts and phone calls and did everything he said he would do. He worked on my case until after 7:00 pm. This morning at 4:15 am, John was up early to work on getting my urgent matter to a judge before 9:00 am. I can’t imagine the attorneys who work for presidents and princes could exceed the attention and service John gave to solving my crisis.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle April 16, 2020
I am happy to give my clients top-of-the line five-star service by promptly and thoroughly responding to every inquiry, no matter what time of day it is. Thank you for writing such a wonderful review that showcases how hard I work for my clients.
Posted by Mark | January 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
John Larochelle most competent and responsive lawyer
I've worked with several lawyers in family and land court and John was the best and most responsive lawyer I have ever had by far. Every person I have referred to John has reached back out to me to thank me.
Response from John Larochelle April 16, 2020
Your friends and family are important to me. I will make sure they receive white-glove service while delivering better-than-expected results.
Posted by anonymous | November 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
John LaRochelle is modern-day Martin Luther
I've retained at least 15 attorneys in my life, perhaps as many as 30. John LaRochelle is by far the best in my experience. In my perspective, he has set a new gold standard for integrity and dedication within this profession nationwide. In his skill, knowledge, communication, and dedication, the person from history that John LaRochelle most reminds me of is Martin Luther (10 November 1483 - 18 February 1546), who single-handedly faced the most powerful organization in the world at great personal risk to himself and who ultimately forced that organization to behave in accordance with the law. John LaRochelle is that kind of a man. John LaRochelle is superb! Hire him without hesitation.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle April 17, 2020
Thank you for your kind words. I enjoy using my knowledge and dedication to achieve superb results.
Posted by anonymous | January 8, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Attorney
Attorney Larochelle immediately began working to solve my criminal matter. He did whatever it took make sure the charges were dismissed. His skills as a former prosecutor really made the difference. There’s no one I would trust to solve a legal problem more than John Larochelle.
Response from John Larochelle April 16, 2020
I am grateful that you took time to share your experience about my legal services and how my skills as a former prosecutor enabled me to achieve a dismissal of your charges.
Posted by Maria | February 1, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
John LaRochelle
I hired Attorney John Larochelle to represent me in a high-profile case. John reassured me from day one, gave extensive answers to my questions, and guided me throughout the process. I was given a plea offer with a minor sentence. John reviewed the weaknesses of the prosecution’s case with me and recommended taking the case to trial instead of admitting guilt. I trusted John’s advice and decided to go to trial. After months of arguing, the prosecution agreed to dismiss all of the charges against me instead of having a trial.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle February 2, 2023
Thank you for trusting in me that is was the right decision to refuse the plea offer and take your case to trial.
Posted by Robert M | March 28, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honestly•Integrity•Due Diligence
John far exceeded my expectations. He left no stone unturned. Faced with the unfortunate task of having to seek legal advice I was naturally a bit trepidatious. Hiring John was the right decision. His expertise and attention to detail is unprecedented. I never felt as if he was " on the clock". He returned my calls in a timely fashion and answered all my questions in a better than satisfactory manner. A total Pro
Read less
Response from John Larochelle March 29, 2023
I am grateful for your kind words and that you took time to share details about the thoroughness of my legal services.
Posted by David | March 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
I have consulted with John Larochelle on several legal matters. Every one of my calls was returned right away. Each time, he came up with a solution. Five-star service every time.
Response from John Larochelle March 3, 2023
I appreciate you telling others about your experience with my prompt, effective solutions.
Posted by anonymous | February 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
John was very professional, thorough and responsive throughout my divorce case. He was able to help me attain what I wanted and was aggressive when he needed to be. I would highly recommend John Larochelle to anyone that is in need of legal representation.
Response from John Larochelle February 21, 2023
I appreciate you taking the time to review your experience with having me represent you in Family Court.
Posted by anonymous | February 13, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Grandparent Visitation Case
My wife and I are grandparents and we needed the help of a lawyer in a grandparents visitation case which is a very difficult type of case. We wanted a top notch lawyer who was intelligent, ethical, and knowledgable of the family court system in R.I. and John Larochelle fit the bill. John explained to us all the aspects of this type of case and the possible outcomes. John worked not only for us but with us. He continually provided immediate answers to any questions and concerns we had and did so in a compassionate and honest way. John fought hard for us during several hearings and eventually negotiated a deal where we were able to see our grandchildren. There is no better lawyer in R.I. to handle this type of case. Thank you John for all your hard work.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle February 14, 2023
It was my pleasure to help you reunite with your grandchildren. Working together, we prevailed.
Posted by James | January 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Attorney you want on your side
For years, John Larochelle has been an A+ lawyer for me – most recently for divorce. He promptly returned every email and telephone call with a thorough answer. John is a first-class lawyer who knows how to negotiate and when to press an advantage. He helped me to get the results I wanted. I hope I don’t need to use his services again, but if I do, I know I have a gladiator in the legal arena fighting for me.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle January 31, 2023
It was a pleasure to get you the great result you deserved. Best of luck.
Posted by Heidi | October 29, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding
Attorney Larochelle is professional, informative ,extremely thorough and such a kind man . I feel as though I may have put him through some stress but throughout all meetings with me he was compassionate and patient. I always walked away from my appointments feeling content and more knowledgeable about what I would encounter during my legal battles with his representation . The word exceptional comes to mind when I think of him .
Read less
Response from John Larochelle October 30, 2021
I am grateful to have been able to help a good person through a difficult, stressful situation. Thank you for sharing your experience with me so that others will know the type of representation they can expect when they hire me.
Posted by anonymous | August 19, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Beyond by expectations
My family required an attorney to represent our son in a serious case. We had no experience with these types of matters and were very worried about the process and outcome. I found attorney Larochelle through a web search. I believe that finding him was the best thing that could have happened aside from the outcome of the case. Right from the initial call to attorney Larochelle I felt more comfort and informed as to possible outcomes for our case. Prior to retaining him, my wife wanted to meet with him because she had come very specific questions. At the end of that meeting she too felt very comfortable with all the answers to her questions. Throughout the process attorney Larochelle kept us informed and was quick to answer calls and emails whenever we had questions. We had a positive outcome in our case and even if it had not ended the way it did I would recommend attorney Larochelle to anyone who may need his services.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle August 20, 2021
I am happy to explain every aspect of a legal case so that my clients understand every component of my plan to achieve an outstanding result. Delivering results that are beyond a client’s expectations is my goal with every case. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with my legal services.
Posted by Carrissa | March 5, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
john larochelle is the by far, one of the best lawyers i have ever retained
Over the past year I have been in and out court battles, and John Larochelle has by far, been the best lawyer that I have had represent me. Attorney Larochelle has been attentive to my legal matter, he handled all police matters with a glorious outcome, he really listens to you when you talk, and argues with assertiveness and strength. john is reachable at any point in time in the night or day, he is attentive and will always touch base with you when you reach out to him. john has really impacted my life in the most positive way I can imagine, and I owe it all to him and his professionalism and assertive and aggressive professional legal presence, along with his compassion and clear minded thinking, he really knows what he's doing. I owe my happiness and life to john. take it from me, john has really brought me from face down on the pavement, to back on my feet.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle March 6, 2021
Thank you for sharing my commitment to my clients to aggressively pursue the best solutions in order to achieve a client’s goals.
Posted by anonymous | January 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A review of a job well done
I was represented by John in 2020. During this time the service and resulting outcome far exceeded my expectations. Communication was always timely, clear, and concise. When obstacles were faced he acted on my behalf without hesitation and was able to achieve a positive outcome. For these reasons I am confident recommending John Larochelle if you are in need of legal representation.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle January 5, 2021
Thank you for taking the time to let others know about Larochelle Law's responsiveness, dedication, and aggressive representation.
Posted by anonymous | November 27, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Quick dismissal of restraining order
John’s stellar representation was able to immediately resolve an unfair restraining order issued against me, resulting in the case being quickly resolved and dismissed. John’s consideration of every angle, and his constant, confident, calm support of my case, not only made a traumatic and emotional ordeal manageable, but it also achieved quick results. John’s broad knowledge and intimate expertise in handling multiple types of cases in both RI and MA, as well as his meticulous attention to detail was, I believe, key to our case’s quick dismissal. I cannot recommend John highly enough for his integrity, knowledge, experience, thoroughness, and kindness. There are many lawyers out there, but I needed the best of the best. Fortunately, I chose wisely, and I hope that my review will help others choose John and be able to receive the same level of representation.
Read less
Response from John Larochelle November 29, 2020
I am grateful for you taking the to share your experience of my comprehensive preparation for a successful defense of a restraining order case. It was satisfying to win your case and have the restraining order dismissed after the first hearing.
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 25 minutes
  • Hourly Rates $ 515-588 per hour
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Larochelle Law
  • 1997 - Present
  • Special Assistant Attorney General
  • Rhode Island Department Of Attorney General
  • 1994 - 1997

Education

  • Suffolk University
  • J.D.
  • 1994
  • University of Rhode Island
  • B.A. Economics; B.S. Finance
  • 1991

Legal Cases

  • Diane S. Cronan ex rel State v. John J. Cronan 99-378-C.A.
  • Victory
  • State of Rhode Island vs Gary Paul 98-281-C.A.
  • Defendant released from RI ACI and served no further time in jail.

Associations

  • American Inns of Court
  • Member
  • 2021 - Present
  • Association of Family and Conciliation Courts
  • Attorney Member
  • 2021 - Present
  • Rhode Island Bar Association, Technology in the Practice Committee
  • 2019 - Present
  • Rhode Island Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • 2019 - Present
  • Rhode Island Bar Association, Family Court Bench/Bar Committee
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Rhode Island Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Preeminent 5.0 out of 5
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2023
  • Ten Best Attorney
  • American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
  • 2022
  • Silver Client Champion award
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2019

Publications

  • Rhode Island Bar Journal
  • Clearing the Record: How to Seal Criminal Records and Expunge Criminal Convictions in Rhode Island
  • 2019
  • Suffolk University Law School Center for Advanced Legal Studies
  • A Trustees Handbook
  • 1994

Speaking Engagements

  • Evidence in Family Law
  • Digital and Social Media Evidence Seminar Presentation
  • 2023
  • Recent Expungement Law updates in Rhode Island
  • Expungement Law updates in Rhode Island
  • 2022
  • Rhode Island Bar Association
  • Expungements
  • 2020
  • Rhode Island Quarterly Meeting
  • Thriving in the competitive environments of Poker and Law
  • 2013
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (8)
Given (10)
Endorse John
Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly recommend John Larochelle for any case involving family law. He is a zealous advocate for his clients. He takes the time to explain any potential benefits and risks before embarking on a given task. He is thorough, detail-oriented, and very professional. As a result, he is extremely well-respected in the community."
Family Attorney | Sep 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Larochelle is honest, hardworking, and comes with superior experience. I know him to be a tremendous advocate for his clients. His analytical and litigation skills are top-notch and he will always prepare each case as if he were going to trial, so as to get the best possible result every time. If I ever needed a lawyer, I would want John Larochelle fighting in my corner. -BVB."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John is a top notch attorney. He is smart, diligent, thorough and available. I could not recommend him more highly."
Family Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John Larochelle brings intense preparation and passionate advocacy to each case. He is aggressive, driven and motivated to achieve the optimal client outcome in every matter he handles. I strongly endorse John Larochelle for family law matters."
Family Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Tireless, aggressive, always competent and caring. John's clients and his work are his priority. Working with John is professionally fulfilling and a learning experience."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"John Larochelle is an excellent lawyer. I have worked on countless cases with him and he is always prepared and achieves great results for clients under difficult circumstances. I fully endorse John Larochelle."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"John is an outstanding advocate in Family Court and consistently obtains terrific results for his clients."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John is an extremely dedicated and experienced lawyers. His attention to detail and responsiveness to clients allows clients to get through a very tough time."
View more endorsements
Medical malpractice
Wrongful death
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Marriage and prenuptials
Personal injury