John S. Davagian

In Memoriam

Founding Davagian Grillo & Semple LLP partner John Davagian passed away on Tuesday January 27, 2026.

Although having attended Boston University School of Law and passing the Massachusetts Bar Exam in 1969, John Davagian spent the first twenty-eight years of his professional career as a contractor. As vice president and then president of Sutton Corporation, a heavy construction company, John managed the closely held family business. Sutton specialized in building bridges, piers, and wharves as a general contractor for public awarding authorities in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, as well as for the General Services Administration, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Department of the Navy. The company also acted as a subcontractor to numerous general contractors for the installation of all types of deep foundations, earth support systems, and pile foundations for both public and private owners across New England.

John then practiced law for 26 years as a partner in Davagian & Frisoli LLP, Davagian & Associates, and then at Davagian Grillo & Semple LLP. John represented individuals and businesses a wide array of business transactions and dispute resolution proceedings. John’s legal practice included representation of the Foundation & Marine Contractors Association of New England, Inc. in its negotiations with organized labor. He also served as General Counsel to the organization.

John is remembered fondly for his contributions to the firm and sound counsel to his clients. For inquiries concerning John’s practice or cases, please contact Christine Smith at [email protected] or 978-443-3773. In the arena of public construction law, Mr. Davagian has wide experience in both presenting and defending surety claims and initiating direct payment claims against public owners on behalf of subcontractors and suppliers. He has also represented his clients before administrative tribunals in contractual disputes. He has also filed, perfected, and foreclosed on mechanic’s liens against private owners.

In the area of residential construction, Mr. Davagian has represented both contractors and homeowners. He has successfully mediated, arbitrated, and litigated cases involving the Massachusetts Home Improvement Law.

Mr. Davagian has also represented clients in the realm of commercial and residential real estate development and land use.