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.

Had an excellent experience with Attorney Balding at Maya Murphy on a custody revisitation/case…read moremanagement matter. He really helped me to see clearly and create options that worked. I found him to be measured, thoughtful and caring. He offered not only wise legal counsel but also proved to be compassionate and thoughtful in helping the process stay centered on what was best for our child. He offered wise and helpful insights and dealt wisely with the other party and resolved the case without further expense and a long drawn out trial. A great lawyer who understands the human side and was tough when he needed to be too! Thank you Tyler so very much!

**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.

Mr. Shea is a great attorney. My parents were in a big jam with their taxes and Mr. Shea did…read moreoutstanding work for them. He guided me and my parents with great advice and support on how to start the process with the Internal Revenue. He worked on my parents tax issues and was very honest. He went the extra mile on solving my parents problem with his work. Mr. Shea solved our problem and we are very happy with the service he provided. Mr. Shea provided excellent service to my family.

From the owner: Shea & Shea is a trusted tax attorney firm located in Westport, CT. Specializing in providing…read moreexpert legal counsel for tax-related matters, our firm is dedicated to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex tax laws and regulations. Whether you're dealing with disputes, planning, compliance, or litigation, Shea & Shea offers personalized services tailored to meet your unique needs. With a commitment to excellence and a team of knowledgeable professionals, we strive to deliver effective solutions to ensure the best outcomes for our clients.

Richard is the worst. I hired him for a medical mal-practice lawsuit that caused my husband's…read moreuntimely demise. There is only a two-year statute of limitation to file a claim. I trusted Richard with all his empty promises. He did nothing but procrastinate for a year and a half. At my insistence, he organized a three-way conference call with himself, the expert and me so I could explain my side to the expert. WHILE on this conference call, Richard was driving himself to a Dr's appt. In the middle of my conversation with the expert, Richard chimes in and says he has to end the call because he had arrived at his dr's office. This is just one example of his many unprofessional behaviors. I had one month left to file a claim or else I would lose my opportunity. I called Richard upset at how sloppily he was handling my case. His response was, " you're just a grieving wife thinking with your emotions instead of accepting the facts." Those words hit me harder than the death of my husband. I told him to gather my records that I would be coming in to retrieve them. There are many more other examples I could give, but then this review would go on forever. I will end it with this; Richard should consider retirement because he sucks as an attorney!!!!!!

Rich was a family friend, and I emphasize was.. I would have been much better off handling my…read moredivorce myself than hiring this man who did nothing but neglect my case and my emails, and my phone calls and text messages. Filed zero motions after promising me he was going to file at least 5. Got me dug into a huge hole. And to top it off, told me my final hearing was delayed only to find out that it actually wasn't and I got put into default and the courts not only dismissed my own motions I had to file without him because of his lies. But never heard me out because we were apparently no shows because we weren't actually delayed! I have about 100 text and emails that he never even bothered responding to or I'm guessing reading because the man did absolutely nothing and made me look even worse by not filing a single motion and having me not to show up. He needs to hang 'em up. I am still contemplating a lawsuit against him myself. Do yourself a favor and just choose the next one on your list!

Neal Rogan is an amazing attorney. He recently represented me in my divorce. He certainly restored…read moremy faith in lawyers and even my faith in humanity in general. He kept me informed throughout the process and patiently answered my many questions. Neal went above and beyond any expectations to get the job done. He is a true professional who delivers results. I would recommend him and his law office highly.

After going through 3 horrible attorneys such as Annmarie Briones from Cohen and Wolf; Jackie Colon…read morewe have finally found Neal Rogan ! He possess vast amour. Of knowledge on the subject matter, also smart tactics in dealing with the issues ! I have followed his strategy and advise every step of the way and obtained a very favorable outcome for my case ! Most importantly, Mr. Rogan is an ethical, decent and honest individual of whom I gave six stars for his loyalty, trust and character ! Very grateful!!!

Very Disappointing…read more I'm an unsatisfied client of Tom Drew who I hired for Estate Planning. He didn't invest the time or have patience to properly educate us about his estate plans and was intolerant to accommodate and address our concerns. His estate plan could have been better formatted with articles headings, an index, more definitions and key words notations to easily reference subjects and to facilitate comprehension. We couldn't go forward with the estate plans he submitted. The relationship was terminated and not in a pleasant manner. We lost our $2,215 advance. -Rick

First, I found that hiring the right attorney who specializes in elder care law is no easy task…read more My usual general practitioners in CT, who I have dealt with for over a decade, would not touch my mother's elder care legal issues and recommended an attorney who specializes in elder care law. My one attorney recommended elder care attorneys more than an hour's drive away and my other attorneys could not recommend anyone in Fairfield County. After my mother executed the elder law documents Atty Drew drafted recently, he explained that over 90 % of his work today is in elder care law. Second, from being a senior executive in global business with a graduate degree in accounting, I can tell you that a JD with a CPA is a pretty rare find and those that do have both degrees focus on tax law, not elder care law. Atty Drew said that he has done tax and business law in the past as well. I worked with Atty Drew in establishing a living will and life estate for my mother. He was a first-rate professional, who communicated with my mother and I about every possible detail throughout the process. If you need an elder care attorney, this is the one to hire.

Took over $10K for services and then did not produce materials for probate and will/estate. Won't…read morereturn calls, emails, and when she does she says she will send paperwork but never does. Make excuses for her incompetence. Do NOT use Linnea Levine.

Linnea Levine is an incredible elder care attorney. She has a keen ability to listen and ask the…read moreright questions. She thoughtfully plans an approach, based on her client's needs, leveraging her vast knowledge and years of experience with elder care matters. She is resulted oriented, which is extremely helpful when working on cases that can involve a significant amount of research, forms and government approvals. She takes it all in stride and, with the help of her wonderful assistant Louisa, she gets the job done. I highly recommend 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.

I needed an attorney for a legal issue that was pretty involved. Ashling was the perfect match. She…read morehandled my legal issue with grace, professionalism and knowledge. It was apparent and evident she knows her craft and is consistently evolving. I have recommended Ashling to friends, family, and more. She was able to fight for me until the very end, but was also very transparent about both sides of the issue. If you are in need of someone to handle your legal issue, you definitely wont be disappointed if you hire Ashling Soares Law.

Use with caution. I won sporting event tickets. I was told…read moreto reach out which I did, and at first all was ok. Then the follow ups I was getting emails bounced back and no responses. Finally had no choice but to dispute the charge and suddenly they reached out to me and tried to make me feel bad because they messed up. In any case the situation was resolved and I purchased as planned. Then I got an email that my account was suspended. Oh well. Don't plan on using them again so deleted the account. Just be careful cause they don't clearly state all the terms in their listing

CharityBuzz is an extremely unethical company and has zero customer service. I won a charity…read moreauction donated by Oceana.org and featuring Blancpain watches and after charging $55,000 to my credit card they then informed me that the charity auction listing had been inaccurate and they were unable to give me the watches as promised. They then sic'ed their lawyers on me when I complained that the error was on their end and expected them to uphold their end of the contract. Not so much as an admission of error or an apology. Just rude. Terrible service. Sloppy execution of details. They don't vet donor items to make sure they are real. Totally unreliable. Do not put your money at risk by bidding on items you may likely never receive or never existed in the first place.