I recently consulted with Alex Cuda regarding a child support enforcement matter -- a…read moremagistrate-level proceeding, not a complex litigation case, with a relatively limited procedural framework. I came prepared with documentation and ensured his office received my materials the day before the consultation. Throughout the meeting, he did not appear to refer to anything I had submitted, and based on the questions he asked, it did not seem that he had reviewed my materials or even looked up the docket number I had provided in advance. For someone billing $800 per hour, the lack of preparation was difficult to reconcile with the certainty with which he spoke. When discussing the case, he would isolate a single detail from its broader context and dwell on it at length despite having access to the full documentation. That isolated point would then become the basis for a sweeping and dismissive conclusion delivered with great confidence, though the actual record did not appear to support it. When I asked direct questions -- what does that mean, how does that fit into the case -- the responses often became more legal terminology rather than clearer explanation. The effect was less analytical than evasive. What was especially striking was the level of authority and detail he brought to describing the opposing party's supposed strengths while not appearing to have meaningfully reviewed the materials I had provided. The confidence with which he characterized a case he had not actually examined was itself notable. Throughout the consultation, his $20,000 retainer surfaced repeatedly and often unprompted -- not as a routine disclosure or in response to specific questions, but almost as a refrain. In the context of a child support enforcement matter in magistrate court, the repetition felt less informational than performative. There was also a persistent dismissiveness to his manner -- at times less like professional detachment and more like open condescension -- unlike anything I experienced with any other attorney I consulted. Most tellingly, after nearly an hour, I had to ask him myself whether I should request a continuance -- one of the most basic procedural considerations available under the circumstances. That it never arose independently during the consultation says a great deal about what the meeting actually produced. I left without a strategy, without a coherent framework, and without the level of guidance that should be the minimum expectation of a paid legal consultation.

I contacted Needle & Cuda seeking legal help for a serious and urgent matter specifically because…read morethe firm handles domestic violence cases. I was honestly appalled by how I was treated, particularly by an intake staff member named Allison. I was initially told twice that someone would call me back, and no one ever did. When I called a third time, I spoke with Allison and she told me the reason she didn't return either call was because their "system was messed up because of the snow." I explained my situation and, toward the end of the call, mentioned that my prior attorney was requiring me to sign an appearance form before returning my retainer. I told her I was seeking legal advice about how to handle this because I didn't know whether I should sign the form or whether new counsel would file their own appearance. I made it clear that this was something I intended to discuss during the paid consultation, which I understood would cost between $650 and $1,300. Allison responded in a rude and dismissive tone: "We don't do that. Get your retainer back and then we'll schedule a consultation." I explained that I did not need my previous retainer returned in order to retain the firm and that I was prepared to pay their $25,000 retainer if I decided to move forward after the consultation. She then said she would call or email me to schedule it. I waited a couple of days and never heard back. Because I urgently needed legal assistance, I called Needle & Cuda again. During that call, I was told the firm likely could not take me as a client "because of the retainer issue," even though I had already clarified that I was prepared to pay their retainer. Despite reiterating that, I was told to call back later to schedule the consultation instead of simply scheduling it while I was already on the phone. When I followed those instructions and called back later that day, someone answered the phone and immediately hung up on me. I waited to see if it was a mistake and called back a few minutes later, but the phone just rang with no answer. The entire interaction was extremely disrespectful and unprofessional, especially given the seriousness of a domestic violence-related custody matter. Respectful communication during intake should be the bare minimum, and I do not understand why I was given the runaround instead of a clear answer. I cannot speak for the attorneys themselves, but based on my experience with the intake staff, I would strongly recommend looking elsewhere if you are seeking responsiveness, professionalism, or even basic courtesy. If this experience does not reflect how Needle & Cuda intends to treat potential clients in serious legal situations, I hope the partners review how intake calls are being handled.

**Caution Advised Before Retaining This Firm**…read more Based on my experience with Maya Murphy, LLP, I cannot recommend their services. My full story is below if you care to read on, but here are alternative firms to engage in CT and NY: **Connecticut** * Lucas and Varga, LLC: [https://lucasvargalaw.com](https://lucasvargalaw.com) * Richard L. Pate Law Offices: [https://www.richardlpateconnecticutemploymentlawyer.com](https://www.richardlpateconnecticutemploymentlawyer.com) **New York** * Granovsky & Sundaresh PLLC: [https://g-s-law.com](https://g-s-law.com) * Phillips & Associates: [https://www.newyorkcitydiscriminationlawyer.com](https://www.newyorkcitydiscriminationlawyer.com) While initial consultations were promising and the firm appeared engaged after I paid a \$5,000 retainer, the quality of service quickly declined. Communication became sporadic, and billing lacked transparency--there were long stretches with no updates, followed by a sudden, substantial bill. After partial payment, they indicated they would no longer negotiate on my behalf unless the outstanding amount was paid in full. At several points, it appeared the firm prioritized their fees over my case. Promises of strong representation and an optimistic outcome did not materialize. In fact, the handling of the matter ultimately weakened my position, and the final settlement amount covered mostly legal fees--with little benefit to me as a client. Key issues I experienced include: * Long periods with no attorney contact * Last-minute reassignment to a different lawyer with little context * Missed or delayed meetings * Poor communication and apparent lack of case familiarity * Settlement pressure with little room for discussion These concerns mirror those raised in other negative reviews. I urge potential clients to research thoroughly and consider alternative firms before proceeding. This review reflects my personal experience and is intended to help others make informed decisions.

Despite the glowing reviews, Lauren Jacobson's legal representation was a huge disappointment. For…read morealmost a year, all we saw was a huge number of "filings" and no results. What should have been a straightforward lawsuit became a maze of questionable legal maneuvers which appeared to have no purpose but to extend the litigation and charge us for it. She once even increased her hourly fee and never bothered to even mention it to us. No rapport with us, only legal bills. Would not recommend her legal help.

Had a consultation scheduled and she never showed up. No call and no text…read more Later she finally texted an extraordinary and increasingly fantastical excuse as to why she couldn't make it. Tried to schedule another consult and once again she never showed up. She seems very odd...don't waste your time with her.

Working with Ashling has been an incredible relief. She's deeply knowledgeable, compassionate, and…read moretruly cares about her clients. What could have been a very stressful process has felt much clearer and more manageable because of her steady guidance and genuine kindness. I'm so grateful for her professionalism and humanity throughout every step.

Jon is a wonderful attorney. He represented me when I was divorced. He is a great listener, very…read morepractical but also a strategic thinker. I highly recommend him.

No one enters a marriage expecting a divorce, and the anxiety of the process is overwhelming. If…read moreyou are in Fairfield County, Jon Von Kohorn is the only lawyer to consider. He navigated my case against a difficult ex and opposing lawyer with incredible expertise, kindness, and class. Jon is direct, his rates are reasonable, and he realistically manages expectations. I've also referred several friends to him with great success. He has excellent reviews for a reason, and I am forever grateful to have been one of his many satisfied clients. My life is on a much better track now, thanks to Jon and the work he does.

Horrible Experience This law Firm will only Harrass you for Payment and will do Nothing to…read moreRespresent you. Ended Up Losing my House after she Sided with the Other Party Never Helped Negotiate anything. I was left in the Street and Lost my House when the Other Person Owned a Multi Million Dollar Property In Boston Which she Did not Disclose in the Financial Affidavit - Stay away From Claire Devidas At all Cost And She is by Far the Worst Lawyer to Retain.

I found Kieran very helpful in my working with him. He has been responsive and answered my…read morequestions and has given excellent guidance. If you need a lawyer who will listen to your problems and give insightful guidance I would suggest you talk to Mr. Costello.

Great service with an extremely positive outcome!…read more Irina Lust is a very passionate lawyer, and an expert in her field. She took me on as a client after two lawyers already had decided that my case was too complicated (removal of conditions, GC, with divorce). She was extremely kind, listened well, and an incredible hard worker during the almost 2 years that we worked on my case. I'm extremely happy that my difficult case had a very happy outcome. I recommend Irina Lust wholeheartedly. She is an extremely competent lawyer with a true heart. Those are hard to find, and don't come around often. I would absolutely recommend Irina Lust!