Interview Description

Firm Description (Fairfield County Divorce and Family Law)

Attorney Profile

Needle | Cuda's brand story

Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Brand Story

                                                                                                                                                              The path forward...

There are no guarantees in life, yet we are hardwired to seek them. After all, there’s comfort in the predictable. But not being perfect is also part of our DNA. And we must manage the unexpected surprises that come as a result.

The promises that come before “I now pronounce you husband and wife” chart a clear course forward. But the unpredictable can happen. And what was once solid can crumble—collapsing the path right before our feet.

And, in an instant, the future isn’t what it was. A family is redefined. Scary questions surface. Uncertainty reigns. And that’s where we come in—to help you navigate the road ahead with clarity and certainty.

We are your GPS!

As divorce attorneys, we help you wind through the twists and turns to avoid the danger areas—especially when the road gets rough. As long-time neighbors in Fairfield County, we know the lay of the land, so we can help you map the most efficient route. That way you and your family arrive at your final destination safely. 

Nobody can predict the future.  But we can certainly show you how to move forward with confidence!

Family Law Attorney Melissa Needle

Family Law Attorney Melissa Needle (Westport, CT)

COVID-19 Divorce in Connecticut

Modified Family Court Schedules

Protect Against Domestic Violence

Act Now and File your Divorce and Post Judgment Modification

Uncharted Territory for Parenting Plans and Visitation Schedules

What do I do about my Parenting Issues during COVID-19?

Safety

No matter where you live or what your relationship is like with your ex, both parents’ primary focus must be on their child’s safety. A parent’s occupation, travel between homes, living environments and others who might reside with a mother or father all could increase a young person’s exposure to the virus. This might mean hard decisions and tough conversations, but the determining factor should always be the health of your child and the people around him or her.

Flexibility

Strong parenting plans set forth fair, clear terms regarding custody and visitation. Each side should know their rights and understand the consequences if they don’t fulfill their obligations. Though well-crafted agreements address predictable contingencies, it’s likely that your order does not account for a situation where all “nonessential” activity is shut down for weeks or months. As a parent, seeing your son or daughter is essential however, and states have differed as to whether custody arrangements override a stay-at-home directive. Even if you believe the law is on your side, finding an open court could be very difficult. Unlike almost any other circumstance, this pandemic presents a parenting challenge that must justify temporarily breaking from the established custody framework.

Technology

Using FaceTime, Skype or Zoom to maintain frequent, meaningful contact can help get parents and children through these difficult times. If it becomes necessary to consult with an attorney or engage in a conversation before a mediator, you can also take advantage of technology to do so.

Whether your best solution involves online visits, preparations for extra visitation time when the pandemic eases, or negotiations for a temporary parenting plan modification, a knowledgeable family law attorney can advise you on strategies that suit your circumstances and needs while protecting your children.