James P. O'Rourke, Jr.

Of Counsel
Manchester, NH

For over 20 years, I have practiced criminal law. First, as a prosecutor, then as a criminal defense lawyer. Having worked on both sides of the aisle, I understand what is important to the court, the prosecutor, the jury and all others involved in a criminal case. I have appeared in the District, Superior and Supreme Courts, as well as the United States District Court – District of New Hampshire and conducted dozens of bench and jury trials. At the same time, I have developed a family law practice, advocating for my clients in divorce, child support, alimony, domestic violence and other family law cases in all of our state family courts.

Being a successful advocate for clients facing the stress and uncertainty related to criminal and family matters often involves a variety of skills that one may not typically consider when hiring a lawyer. My clients, facing serious, life-altering decisions, sometimes need an empathetic listener, common sense suggestions, as well as information about how the process works, in addition to advice about case strategy and tactics. I take my role as legal counsel seriously.

I support my community in a number of ways – as a member of the Henniker, Contoocook and Concord Chambers of Commerce, a Town of Hopkinton Library Trustee, past President of the White Birch Center in Henniker, School Moderator for the Henniker Community School and John Stark Regional High School, Henniker Youth Athletic Committee, youth baseball coach.

Since 1993, I have coached high school football as a Head Coach, Offensive and Defensive Coordinator and position coach. Recently, I have taken a sabbatical from coaching to focus on my family, law practice and other business ventures!

I currently live in Contoocook, NH with my wife, Emily, high school-aged kids Liam and Thea, and cat, Mr. Smith. We spend as much time as possible outside, cycling, skiing – Nordic and Alpine, hiking, kayaking and boating.

Representative Media Coverage

Yacht bought in N.H. with pandemic relief funds surrendered; The US Marshal's Service is preparing to auction off the 65-foot vessel bought by Robert M. Waters in 2022, The Boston Globe- April 21, 2024

Manchester officer arrested on six domestic violence charges- Manchester Union Leader- April 24, 2024 "In an email, MacNeilly’s attorney James P. O’Rourke said, “Mr. MacNeilly, like every New Hampshire citizencharged with a crime, enjoys the presumption of innocence under the State and Federal Constitutions.”. Click to be directed to the full article.

Community Involvement