About
John R. Grasso is a Providence criminal defense attorney who represents people facing misdemeanor and felony charges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. His work includes matters in District and Superior Courts, the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal, and federal appellate proceedings. He also advises college and university students accused of conduct violations, including campus sexual assault allegations. His background as a former police officer informs his understanding of investigations, arrests, evidence, and law enforcement procedures.
Grasso graduated magna cum laude from Roger Williams University School of Law, where he earned honors in Advanced Legal Writing, Military Law, Judicial Process and Ethics, and Trial Advocacy. He also earned an M.S. in Criminal Justice Studies from Roger Williams University and a B.S. in Business Administration from Providence College. His academic work in criminal justice and trial advocacy complements the practical perspective developed through law enforcement and courtroom experience.
Grasso previously served with the Cranston Police Department as a patrolman and as a member of its Special Reaction Team and Underwater Recovery Team. He also served in various assignments as a United States Army officer. His legal practice has included defending clients against charges involving domestic violence, robbery, assault, DUI, sexual assault, and other serious offenses. He has also taught Trial Advocacy and Criminal Litigation at Roger Williams University School of Law.
John R. Grasso is admitted in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, in federal district courts, and as a member of the Bar of the United States Supreme Court. He belongs to the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the American Bar Association, and the Rhode Island Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His professional background combines police experience, military service, legal education, courtroom advocacy, and teaching focused on criminal litigation and trial practice.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attorney, Law Office of John R. Grasso, Inc.
- Member, Rhode Island Bar Association
- Member, Massachusetts Bar Association
- Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member, American Bar Association
- Member, Rhode Island Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member of the Bar, Bar of the United States Supreme Court
Licensed State
- Rhode Island
- Massachusetts
Education
- Roger Williams University School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Roger Williams University
Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice Studies - Providence College
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration
Awards & Badges





- Assault & Battery
- Credit Card Fraud
- Criminal Defense
- Domestic Violence
- Driver's License Suspension
- Drug Crime
- DUI & DWI
- Federal Crime
- Homicide
- Identity Theft
- Juvenile
- Military Law
- Restraining Orders
- Sex Crimes
- Violent Crime




