I recently consulted with Alex Cuda regarding a child support enforcement matter -- a magistrate-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. read more

I contacted Needle & Cuda seeking legal help for a serious and urgent matter specifically because the 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. read more

I recently consulted with Alex Cuda regarding a child support enforcement matter -- a magistrate-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. read more

The superb Needle Cuda team of Melissa Needle, Jenna DeMartino, and Jessica Calise represented me in my divorce. They were the epitome of professionalism, competence, empathy, and responsiveness. From the outset, the team took the time to understand the facts of my situation, explain the legal framework clearly, and outline realistic strategies and potential outcomes. During the proceedings, their advice was thorough, clear, pragmatic, and candid. They kept me calm and informed throughout; they reassured me when I needed it. Needle Cuda advocated effectively for my interests and delivered an excellent result for me. I would recommend Needle Cuda to anyone seeking strong, capable representation combined with deep legal knowledge delivered with the perfect combination of ferocity and sensitivity. read more

Needle Cuda exemplifies the word "family" in family law. From the moment you call or enter the office, you are greeted with warmth and compassion. Melissa and her team of attorneys, paralegals, and staff possess the expertise required to solve any difficult situation, but they have an inherent quality of genuinely caring for the client. Melissa, Chris and the team guided me each step of the way, explaining each scenario and always diligently working with my best interest in mind. They not only provided legal advice, but offered emotional support which allowed me to gain my grounding and start a new chapter in my life. I am forever grateful to Melissa and the team for believing in me. read more

I would highly recommend looking elsewhere if you need an attorney you can trust. I had my $7500 retainer blown through without anything of substance to use, and waited almost 7 weeks for an agreement (no conversations in between) that was time sensitive, only to receive a template after I asked for a status. Had I not asked for a status, I think they would have forgotten about me. Additionally, there was a balance due back to me after I terminated my relationship with the firm, and I have tried multiple times to resolve it without success. Attorney Needle even responded and told me she would get back to me, after I emailed a second time asking for a status, and she has since ignored the issue. They were quick to take my retainer, send me invoices to deduct from the retainer balance, but now that they owe me money, nothing. My opinion is I have a case for legal malpractice here as well. read more

I am so grateful for this firm. My NYC Divorce Attorney dropped my case last night, one day before we were to have a conference with the judge. I lost my mind. I was desperately looking for guidance and Chris from Needle-Cuda held my hand, virtually, via text. He was empathetic and explained the potential issues that may arise due to attorney transitioning, especially when a conference has already been scheduled. Chris also provided me with much needed direction, information, and referrals to NYC Divorce Attorneys. Oh, how I wish they could have represented me. THIS is the firm I needed to represent me. read more

There aren't enough glowing things to say Melissa Needle and her entire team. Melissa took me through a difficult and challenging cross state relocation case and helped me achieve what I thought was impossible. With intention and smart strategic moves all the way through, Melissa helped me navigate the process with patience, incredible attention to detail, foresight, and incomparable smarts. She is seasoned, empathic, but knows when to make hard calls and tough decisions. And they always seemed to lead to the desired outcomes. I trusted her with the biggest decision of my life, and she secured the outcome we desperately wanted. She and her entire team are accessible, responsive, supportive, caring, and they don't leave one stone unturned. I can't recommend her highly enough and with Melissa, you are in THE BEST hands. read more

Recently, I retained Needle and Cuda for my divorce. The entire law practice treated me with kindness, compassion and professionalism. The first day I knew I was in excellent hands, and everything I was promised came true for the future well being for my children and me. This law firm was protective of me, and knew the exact needs and legal advice that was required for me to get the best results for my divorce. The painful and arduous process of a divorce was made as caring and considerate to my needs and three children. I recommend hiring Needle and Cuda to anyone needing a divorce who will get the best settlement, while being treated with empathy and the best legal advice. Every question and concern was responded to the same day, and the entire office staff was professional while always remaining incredibly caring. read more