At Needle | Cuda, we know when you come to see us that you may be going through the most difficult time of your life. That is why we style ourselves a "high touch" law firm with a premium on client service.
In the comfort of our welcoming Westport office - or remotely as may be necessary or appropriate - we discuss your situation thoroughly and provide information and guidance to help you make a well-informed decision about how you would like to proceed.We focus on family law and limit the number of cases we take, so we can provide the personal attention you deserve while building a positive working relationship that inspires confidence.
In the comfort of our welcoming Westport office - or remotely as may be necessary or appropriate - we discuss your situation thoroughly and provide information and guidance to help you make a well-informed decision about how you would like to proceed.We focus on family law and limit the number of cases we take, so we can provide the personal attention you deserve while building a positive working relationship that inspires confidence.
Services
Attorney Melissa Needle is a lifetime Connecticut resident. She was born in New Haven, raised in Fairfield, and now resides in Westport with her family. Attorney Needle is a third-generation attorney with deep family roots in Connecticut. Her father, Attorney Charles Needle, was a founder of the Connecticut firm Zeldes, Needle & Cooper in 1971.
Alexander J. Cuda is a highly respected family and matrimonial law attorney. With numerous published articles and speaking engagements, Alex's leadership in family law is well-known. He has been named one of the "Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in Southern Connecticut" by such organizations as the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys (2017).
Since his acceptance to the bar, Mark has practiced exclusively in the area of matrimonial and family law, including complex divorce actions involving significant assets and child custody issues, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and he has represented clients in Connecticut and New York trial courts, as well as the Connecticut Appellate Court.
At Needle | Cuda, we focus exclusively on divorce and family law. That sharp focus allows us to keep abreast of all developments in Connecticut family law so we can better represent your interests. Marriage Dissolution - The experience of a divorce action can be distressing, emotional, and tedious for both clients and their families.
Divorce Lawyers in Westport provide trustworthy advice about how to file for divorce in Connecticut. If you have decided to dissolve your marriage, or if your spouse has served you with divorce papers, you are probably wondering, "What happens now?" The Westport divorce attorneys at Needle | Cuda understand your concerns and want to set your mind at ease.
Reviews (10)
Gerald K.
Dec 15, 2021
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Melissa has professionally represented me for over 12 years; guiding me thru the legal & emotional hurdles of a difficult divorce, thru a court modification process to the original agreement, thru an appeal to that modification, & thru another full court hearing on the modification...all with fair & positive rulings in my favor. I have & will continue to recommend her legal services to others
Riya S.
Dec 12, 2021
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Melissa was extremely helpful as I went through my divorce process. She delivered great legal advice with a lot of technical excellence through some very complex employment compensation issues. However, more importantly, she understood my emotions and end goals and was able to communicate practically, patiently and with compassion to deliver a favorable result.
Cynthia C.
Nov 30, 2021
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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
Alesia Reno
Nov 16, 2021
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I spent 11 long years in the system. I would not have been trapped there for so long if I had Attorney Melissa Needle as my counsel from the beginning. She was a ray of sunshine in the very dark world of divorce and in my never ending storm. Melissa gave me back my freedom and not only brought justice to the ones who were trying to defy the system, but she defended me from many unjust accusations. I have spoken to countless lawyers during this process. Attorney Needle is the only lawyer who was not in it for the money or the big win--she's about justice and she fought for what was best for my kids
Thomas Telesca
Nov 05, 2021
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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
Kraig Paul
Oct 30, 2021
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At a very difficult and emotional time, Atty Needle helped to keep things calm. Professional, thorough and to the point, Melissa helped to guide me in the right direction. She quickly gained my trust so I felt confident with the legal councel I received. Atty Needle’s ability to keep things positive while getting the job done is what stands out the most when someone asks about my experience.
Karen Krondes Blair
Oct 21, 2021
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Attorney Melissa Needle and her team are top-notch, thorough, practical and caring. My situation was emotional and overwhelming, but Melissa and her team took the reins and navigated their way through my mess to make sense of it, explain it to me, and strategize the best outcome for me. I highly recommend this firm for your family law needs.
Sharon C.
Sep 22, 2021
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I knew instantly after meeting Melissa that I wanted her to represent me if I was going to get divorced. It is such a difficult and emotional process, but she is professional, reassuring and caring. My divorce ended up going to trial, which no one wants. Melissa represented me very well and the outcome was favorable. She was prepared, organized and so composed. She presented the facts in such a professional manner. I would highly recommend Melissa if you need a caring, intelligent, professional attorney.
Gayle Greenberger
Sep 16, 2021
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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
Brandon Lee
Aug 16, 2021
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Positive: Quality
Melissa is a top-notch divorce lawyer with a vast knowledge of the legal system and the skills to navigate it. But of equal importance to a client going through a divorce, she is sensitive and compassionate and always realistic about expectations. There is no one better I'd rather have on my side.
Melissa is a top-notch divorce lawyer with a vast knowledge of the legal system and the skills to navigate it. But of equal importance to a client going through a divorce, she is sensitive and compassionate and always realistic about expectations. There is no one better I'd rather have on my side.
