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Divorce
- Income Division (a.k.a. Alimony)
- Child Support
- Visitation Rights
- Child Custody
- Parenting Plans
- Asset and Property Division
- Assets Owned Before Marriage
- High-Net-Worth Divorce/Complex Property Division in CT Divorce
- Business Assets
- Inheritances
- Retirement Accounts
- Protecting a 401(k)
- Real Property
- Marital Residence
- Same-Sex Divorce
- Legal Separation
- Divorce Do's and Don'ts
- Family Law
- Dispute Resolution
- Regulatory
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830 Post Road East, Suite 301 | Westport, Connecticut 06880
Call For Consultation
203-557-9500
Call For Consultation
203-557-9500
How do I file for divorce in Westport CT?
Divorce (General Information)
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How do I file for divorce in Westport CT?
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Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law provides guidance that moves lives forward. Understand all your options and how to proceed with a divorce action in Connecticut.
Duration: 01:46Date: 2019-01-15
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"Contested Child Custody in Connecticut Divorce" with Attorney Melissa Needle
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Contested Child Custody in Connecticut Divorce with Attorney Melissa Needle
The sixth (6th) installment of a twelve (12) part series with Attorney Melissa Needle on the podcast "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Dan Herrold. Attorney Needle's series, "Mapping your new path forward," tackles hard hitting questions about divorce, delivers practical tips, and provides essential information to those people confronting divorce.
Learn about "Contested Child Custody" in Connecticut Divorce:
- Family Court backed-up due to COVID has made it difficult to get in front of judges on a timely basis;
- Marked shift to arbitration and mediation in lower Fairfield County to expedite the process (pros and cons of alternative dispute resolution);
- What is Contested Custody?;
- Legal vs Physical Custody;
- Control over the decision making;
- Rising above the conflict; Demonstrating the ability to co-parent;
- Developing tangible evidence;
- Does the child or children have a voice in the process? And if so, when?;
- Emergency Motions;
- GALs and AMCs explained;
- Psychological evaluations: what are they and how can they be ordered by the court?
- Carefully defining your goals and communicating with your attorney;
For all episodes of "Divorce Doesn't Suck"
"Divorce Doesn't Suck" Home - Link to All Episodes
Related Content
Most Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Child Custody
Most Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about GALS and AMCs
Divorce Lawyers in Westport Provide Trustworthy advise 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. By working closely with you, we can develop a plan tailored for you that is effective in resolving points of conflict on favorable terms. Whether your circumstances necessitate a non-adversarial divorce to put your marriage behind you, a meticulous analysis of your assets to protect your property rights or aggressive litigation to preserve your parental rights, our experienced and knowledgeable Connecticut divorce attorneys work with you to pursue these goals.Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Practice Areas
Needle | Cuda is a divorce and family law firm focused high-net-worth divorce, contested custody, and complex property division. The firm's practice areas include: divorce, alimony, child custody, child support, restraining orders, same-sex marriage, post judgment modification, relocation, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, enforcement and contempt actions, divorce appealsNeedle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Service Areas
Our service areas includes: Greenwich, Belle Haven, Byrum, Cos Cob, Riverside, Round Hill, Stanwich, Mianus, Glenville, Old Greenwich, Westport, Compo Beach, Greens Farms, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Island, Saugatuck Shores, Coleytown, Darien, Noroton Heights, Tokeneke, New Canaan, Pinney's Corners, Selleck's Corners, Talmadge Hill, Ponus Ridge, Stamford, Shippan, The Cove, North Stamford, Newfield, Westover, Turn of River, Waterside, Norwalk, Cranberry, South Norwalk, Wilson Point, Harbor Shores, Harbor View, Rowayton, Ridgefield, Wilton, Cannondale, North Wilton, Bald Hill, Belden Hill, South Wilton, Gilbert Corners, Lambert Corners, Weston, Easton, Fairfield, Sturges, Greenfield Hill, Fairfield Beach, Blackrock, Sasco Hill, Fairfield Woods, Milford, Stratford, Trumbull, Fairfield County, Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut.
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Setting "Strategy and Priorities in CT Divorce (Part 2)"; Attorney Melissa Needle; Divorce Doesn't Suck Podcast - Property/Asset Division
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Setting "Strategy and Priorities in CT Divorce (Part 2)" with Attorney Melissa Needle - Property/Asset Division
The fifth installment of a twelve (12) part series with Attorney Melissa Needle as featured on the podcast "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Dan Herrold. Attorney Needle's series, "Mapping your new path forward," tackles hard hitting questions about divorce, delivers practical tips, and provides essential information to those people confronting divorce.
Learn about setting "Strategy and Priorities in Connecticut Divorce" with respect to Property/Asset Division
- The Financial Affidavit (IMPORTANT);
- Why it's important?;
- Understanding how your Financial Affidavit's are used;
- Challenges with completing your Financial Affidavit;
- What happens when you can't find information?;
- Marital property vs separate property;
- Financial Affidavit vs a Consolidated Asset Summary;
- Updating your Financial Affidavit throughout the process;
- Discovery and compliance;
- Forensic Accountants and expert testimony;
- Appraisals and asset valuations;
- Understanding your personal finances...
- Empowerment and confidence;
For all episodes of "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Daniel Herrold
Link to "Divorce Doesn't Suck" - Home and All Episodes
Daniel Herrold, Founder of International Dating Club and Co-Founder of Divorce over 40; Wendy Lowy Sloane, Executive Producer and Host of the What’s Up with Wendy celebrity radio show and podcast, announce their collaboration on a new podcast, Divorce Doesn’t Suck. This new podcast will explore every aspect of divorce, including kids, finances, dating, sex, starting over, and more. Daniel and Wendy will share their experiences and fresh perspectives on their divorces, and how they were able to move forward and focus on the future. Guests, including Attorney Melissa Needle, will include experts in finance, law, psychology, dating, relationships, health and wellness, and more. Divorce Doesn’t Suck will appeal to people at every stage of their divorce journey, from deciding if divorce is the right decision to post-divorce relationships and re-marrying.
Related Content:
Property and Asset Division - Practice Area Link
Assets Owned Before Marriage
Divorce Lawyers in Westport Provide Trustworthy advise 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. By working closely with you, we can develop a plan tailored for you that is effective in resolving points of conflict on favorable terms. Whether your circumstances necessitate a non-adversarial divorce to put your marriage behind you, a meticulous analysis of your assets to protect your property rights or aggressive litigation to preserve your parental rights, our experienced and knowledgeable Connecticut divorce attorneys work with you to pursue these goals.
Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Practice Areas
Needle | Cuda is a divorce and family law firm focused high-net-worth divorce, contested custody, and complex property division. The firm's practice areas include: Divorce, alimony, child custody, child support, restraining orders, same-sex marriage, post judgment modification, relocation, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, enforcement and contempt actions, divorce appealsNeedle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Service Areas
Our service areas includes: Greenwich, Belle Haven, Byrum, Cos Cob, Riverside, Round Hill, Stanwich, Mianus, Glenville, Old Greenwich, Westport, Compo Beach, Greens Farms, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Island, Saugatuck Shores, Coleytown, Darien, Noroton Heights, Tokeneke, New Canaan, Pinney's Corners, Selleck's Corners, Talmadge Hill, Ponus Ridge, Stamford, Shippan, The Cove, North Stamford, Newfield, Westover, Turn of River, Waterside, Norwalk, Cranberry, South Norwalk, Wilson Point, Harbor Shores, Harbor View, Rowayton, Ridgefield, Wilton, Cannondale, North Wilton, Bald Hill, Belden Hill, South Wilton, Gilbert Corners, Lambert Corners, Weston, Easton, Fairfield, Sturges, Greenfield Hill, Fairfield Beach, Blackrock, Sasco Hill, Fairfield Woods, Milford, Stratford, Trumbull, Fairfield County, Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut.
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Strategy and Priorities in CT Divorce (Part 1); Attorney Melissa Needle (Podcast "Divorce Doesn't Suck") - Child Custody
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Setting "Strategy and Priorities in Connecticut Divorce"
Check out the fourth installment of our twelve (12) part series with Attorney Melissa Needle on the podcast "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Dan Herrold. Attorney Needle's series, "Mapping your new path forward," tackles hard hitting questions about divorce, delivers practical tips, and provides essential information to those people confronting divorce.
Learn about setting "Strategy and Priorities in Connecticut Divorce":
- Contested Child Custody;
- Focusing on the Best Interest of the Child or Children;
- Legal vs Physical Custody;
- Effective Communication with your Attorney;
- Defining nuances goals and obstacles;
- Assessing what kind of physical custody relationship with your spouse can support
- The importance of transitions and what they project to your children;
- Managing communication with your spouse during the pendency of your divorce;
- Use of communications applications and technology in divorce;
- Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) defined and explained;
- Attorney for Minor Children (AMC) defined and explained;
- Mental health support for children and safe spaces in divorce;
For all episodes of "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Dan Herrold
"Divorce Doesn't Suck" - Link to Podcast Home
Daniel Herrold, Founder of International Dating Club and Co-Founder of Divorce over 40; Wendy Lowy Sloane, Executive Producer and Host of the What’s Up with Wendy celebrity radio show and podcast, announce their collaboration on a new podcast, Divorce Doesn’t Suck. This new podcast will explore every aspect of divorce, including kids, finances, dating, sex, starting over, and more. Daniel and Wendy will share their experiences and fresh perspectives on their divorces, and how they were able to move forward and focus on the future. Guests, including Attorney Melissa Needle, will include experts in finance, law, psychology, dating, relationships, health and wellness, and more. Divorce Doesn’t Suck will appeal to people at every stage of their divorce journey, from deciding if divorce is the right decision to post-divorce relationships and re-marrying.
Related Content:
Child Custody - Practice Area Link
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Child Custody
Divorce Lawyers in Westport Provide Trustworthy advise 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. By working closely with you, we can develop a plan tailored for you that is effective in resolving points of conflict on favorable terms. Whether your circumstances necessitate a non-adversarial divorce to put your marriage behind you, a meticulous analysis of your assets to protect your property rights or aggressive litigation to preserve your parental rights, our experienced and knowledgeable Connecticut divorce attorneys work with you to pursue these goals.Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Practice Areas
Needle | Cuda is a divorce and family law firm focused high-net-worth divorce, contested custody, and complex property division. The firm's practice areas include: Divorce, alimony, child custody, child support, restraining orders, same-sex marriage, post judgment modification, relocation, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, enforcement and contempt actions, divorce appealsNeedle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Service Areas
Our service areas includes: Greenwich, Belle Haven, Byrum, Cos Cob, Riverside, Round Hill, Stanwich, Mianus, Glenville, Old Greenwich, Westport, Compo Beach, Greens Farms, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Island, Saugatuck Shores, Coleytown, Darien, Noroton Heights, Tokeneke, New Canaan, Pinney's Corners, Selleck's Corners, Talmadge Hill, Ponus Ridge, Stamford, Shippan, The Cove, North Stamford, Newfield, Westover, Turn of River, Waterside, Norwalk, Cranberry, South Norwalk, Wilson Point, Harbor Shores, Harbor View, Rowayton, Ridgefield, Wilton, Cannondale, North Wilton, Bald Hill, Belden Hill, South Wilton, Gilbert Corners, Lambert Corners, Weston, Easton, Fairfield, Sturges, Greenfield Hill, Fairfield Beach, Blackrock, Sasco Hill, Fairfield Woods, Milford, Stratford, Trumbull, Fairfield County, Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut.
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"Getting Started with Your Divorce Attorney" with Melissa Needle (2022) - Filing the complaint, client homework, your marital history:
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"Getting Started with Your Divorce Attorney?"
Check out the third installment of "Mapping your New Path Forward" discussed "Getting Started with your Divorce Attorney. " Attorney Melissa Needle is Managing Partner of Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law. Attorney Melissa Needle is the contributor of the twelve part series "Mapping your New Path Forward" under the umbrella of the Podcast "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Daniel Herrold. "Getting Started with your Attorney" - Video Link In this series, Attorney Melissa Needle tackles hard hitting questions about getting started with divorce; delivers practical tips, and provides essential information and support for those people who have been confronted with divorce and need to find a new path forward. Attorney Melissa Needle is the Managing Partner of Needle | Cuda Divorce and Family Law, a firm that serves lower Fairfield County Connecticut from Greenwich to Westport. Needle | Cuda handles high-net-worth divorce; contested child custody, and complex property/asset division.
Learn about "Getting Started with Your Divorce Attorney" and the first steps in the process:
- What to look for in a relationship with your attorney?
- Retainer agreements explained...;
- Conflict checks;
- Serving your spouse with divorce papers;
- The initial divorce complaint;
- Financial Affidavits;
- Homework;
- Your marital history
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Divorce
The Do's and Don'ts of Divorce
Controlling the Divorce Narrative - Published 2-4-23 By CT Insider - Written By Melissa Needle
For all episodes of "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Daniel Herrold
"Divorce Doesn't Suck" Podcast Series Daniel Herrold, Founder of International Dating Club and Co-Founder of Divorce over 40; Wendy Lowy Sloane, Executive Producer and Host of the What’s Up with Wendy celebrity radio show and podcast, announce their collaboration on a new podcast, Divorce Doesn’t Suck. This new podcast will explore every aspect of divorce, including kids, finances, dating, sex, starting over, and more. Daniel and Wendy will share their experiences and fresh perspectives on their divorces, and how they were able to move forward and focus on the future. Guests, including Attorney Melissa Needle, will include experts in finance, law, psychology, dating, relationships, health and wellness, and more. Divorce Doesn’t Suck will appeal to people at every stage of their divorce journey, from deciding if divorce is the right decision to post-divorce relationships and re-marrying.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. By working closely with you, we can develop a plan tailored for you that is effective in resolving points of conflict on favorable terms. Whether your circumstances necessitate a non-adversarial divorce to put your marriage behind you, a meticulous analysis of your assets to protect your property rights or aggressive litigation to preserve your parental rights, our experienced and knowledgeable Connecticut divorce attorneys work with you to pursue these goals.
Needle | Cuda's Practice Areas
The firm's practice areas include: Divorce, alimony, child custody, child support, restraining orders, same-sex marriage, post judgment modification, relocation, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, enforcement and contempt actions, divorce appeals.Needle | Cuda's Service Areas
Our service areas includes: Greenwich, Belle Haven, Byrum, Cos Cob, Riverside, Round Hill, Stanwich, Mianus, Glenville, Old Greenwich, Westport, Compo Beach, Greens Farms, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Island, Saugatuck Shores, Coleytown, Darien, Noroton Heights, Tokeneke, New Canaan, Pinney's Corners, Selleck's Corners, Talmadge Hill, Ponus Ridge, Stamford, Shippan, The Cove, North Stamford, Newfield, Westover, Turn of River, Waterside, Norwalk, Cranberry, South Norwalk, Wilson Point, Harbor Shores, Harbor View, Rowayton, Ridgefield, Wilton, Cannondale, North Wilton, Bald Hill, Belden Hill, South Wilton, Gilbert Corners, Lambert Corners, Weston, Easton, Fairfield, Sturges, Greenfield Hill, Fairfield Beach, Blackrock, Sasco Hill, Fairfield Woods, Milford, Stratford, Trumbull, Fairfield County, Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut.
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The Anatomy of Connecticut Divorce - divorce made simple with Attorney Melissa Needle (2022)
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The Anatomy of Connecticut Divorce
This is the second installment of a twelve part series with Attorney Melissa Needle on the podcast "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with influencers Wendy Sloan and Danial Harrold. Attorney Needle contributes to a 12 part arc is called "Mapping your New Path Forward." In this episode she describes the core elements of a Connecticut divorce as it relates to the requisite separation agreement. Attorney Melissa Needle, Managing Partner of Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law. How to Hire a Divorce Attorney? (Video) In "Mapping your New Path Forward," Attorney Melissa Needle tackles hard hitting questions about getting started with divorce; delivers practical tips, and provides essential information and support for those people who have been confronted with divorce and need help to find a path forward. Needle | Cuda Divorce and Family Law, a firm that serves lower Fairfield County Connecticut from Greenwich to Westport. Needle | Cuda handles high-net-worth divorce; contested child custody, and complex property/asset division.
Learn about the "Anatomy of Connecticut Divorce"
A divorce complaint (for the dissolution of a marriage) requires the resolu
tion of three main components between the parties before an agreement can be presented before a family court on behalf of the parties:
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Income division (aka Alimony);
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Property/Asset division;
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Child Custody (legal and physical);
Child Custody
(When applicable) Child Custody includes physical custody and legal custody. Needle | Cuda has extensive experience resolving all kinds of child custody disputes (e.g. visitation, education, travel, religious education, medical/healthcare, relocation and COVID-19 related welfare concerns) and can skillfully negotiate and define an enforceable, long-term parenting plan that works for you, your children and your life. We represent parents in child custody disputes arising during and after divorce and in connection with paternity matters. We understand the importance of your relationship with your children as well as your concern for their health and welfare. We work tirelessly to protect your parental rights consistent with your children’s best interests. We represent parents in disputes over visitation and parenting plans, including allegations of interference and parental alienation. We also represent third parties, such as grandparents and siblings, seeking visitation with a child. Needle | Cuda also handles unique and highly nuanced issues related to child custody, visitation, and parental rights in same-sex marriages concerning the legal and physical custody rights of both biological and non-biological parents.Asset/property Division
Property division involves a detailed accounting process through which the marital assets are both identified and valued so that an agreement may be formed to divide and distribute them. Assets typically include: real estate, investment accounts, retirement accounts, 401(k) plans, annuities, ownership interests in family and/or closely held businesses and other types of complex property ownership (e.g. intellectual property, artwork and antiques). Division of property may also include assets owned before the marriage, assets inherited (before or during the marriage) or assets held in trust, although each of these categories may require a more detailed analysis. Needle | Cuda works extensively with a network of experienced valuation experts, accounting professionals and subject matter specialists who can be called upon to complete complex property and business valuations that are unique to your situation.Income division/Alimony
Alimony has two subsets, alimony and child support. Child support is often relatively straightforward as its rules and amounts are subject to an income-driven model set by state guidelines. However, there are various situations that may call for a deviation from the guidelines, such as where the income of the parties exceeds the guidelines and therefore requires more evidence of what is the appropriate child support award. Alimony is usually more complex as it involves consideration of multiple factors, such as length of the marriage, earning capacity and the contributions of each spouse during the course marriage. There are no guidelines for alimony. Often complicating the picture is income derived from ownership of a business. It may be necessary to differentiate income that is related to asset ownership/investment from income earned through employment at the business. Needle | Cuda has extensive experience negotiating these complex issues, especially on behalf of its high net worth clients.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Divorce
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Alimony
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Child Custody
Asset and Property Division
For all episodes of "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Daniel Herrold...
Link to Divorce Doesn't Suck Podcast Series
Daniel Herrold, Founder of International Dating Club and Co-Founder of Divorce over 40; Wendy Lowy Sloane, Executive Producer and Host of the What’s Up with Wendy celebrity radio show and podcast, announce their collaboration on a new podcast, Divorce Doesn’t Suck. This new podcast will explore every aspect of divorce, including kids, finances, dating, sex, starting over, and more. Daniel and Wendy will share their experiences and fresh perspectives on their divorces, and how they were able to move forward and focus on the future. Guests, including Attorney Melissa Needle, will include experts in finance, law, psychology, dating, relationships, health and wellness, and more. Divorce Doesn’t Suck will appeal to people at every stage of their divorce journey, from deciding if divorce is the right decision to post-divorce relationships and re-marrying.
Related Content
The Anatomy of Connecticut Divorce - 10/1/2022 - New Haven Register -Article Published by Melissa Needle
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. By working closely with you, we can develop a plan tailored for you that is effective in resolving points of conflict on favorable terms. Whether your circumstances necessitate a non-adversarial divorce to put your marriage behind you, a meticulous analysis of your assets to protect your property rights or aggressive litigation to preserve your parental rights, our experienced and knowledgeable Connecticut divorce attorneys work with you to pursue these goals.Needle | Cuda's Practice Areas
The firm's practice areas include: Divorce, alimony, child custody, child support, restraining orders, same-sex marriage, post judgment modification, relocation, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, enforcement and contempt actions, divorce appeals.Needle | Cuda's Service Areas
Our service areas includes: Greenwich, Belle Haven, Byrum, Cos Cob, Riverside, Round Hill, Stanwich, Mianus, Glenville, Old Greenwich, Westport, Compo Beach, Greens Farms, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Island, Saugatuck Shores, Coleytown, Darien, Noroton Heights, Tokeneke, New Canaan, Pinney's Corners, Selleck's Corners, Talmadge Hill, Ponus Ridge, Stamford, Shippan, The Cove, North Stamford, Newfield, Westover, Turn of River, Waterside, Norwalk, Cranberry, South Norwalk, Wilson Point, Harbor Shores, Harbor View, Rowayton, Ridgefield, Wilton, Cannondale, North Wilton, Bald Hill, Belden Hill, South Wilton, Gilbert Corners, Lambert Corners, Weston, Easton, Fairfield, Sturges, Greenfield Hill, Fairfield Beach, Blackrock, Sasco Hill, Fairfield Woods, Milford, Stratford, Trumbull, Fairfield County, Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut. -
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How to Hire a Divorce Attorney with Attorney Melissa Needle (Connecticut 2022)
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How to Hire a Divorce Attorney?
Check out the first installment of "Mapping your New Path Forward" that reviews "How to Hire a Divorce Attorney?" -- with Attorney Melissa Needle, Managing Partner of Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law. "Mapping your New Path Forward" is featured on the Podcast "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with influencers Wendy Sloan and Danial Harrold. How to Hire a Divorce Attorney? Attorney Melissa Needle tackles hard hitting questions about getting started with divorce; delivers practical tips, and provides essential information and support for those people who have been confronted with divorce and need to find a path forward. Attorney Melissa Needle is the Managing Partner of Needle | Cuda Divorce and Family Law, a firm that serves lower Fairfield County Connecticut from Greenwich to Westport. Needle | Cuda handles high-net-worth divorce; contested child custody, and complex property/asset division.
Learn about "How to Hire a Divorce Attorney:"
- Referral Sources;
- The Initial Consultation;
- Make sure that you are comfortable with your attorney...follow your "blink";
- Hire an experienced divorce and family law attorney not a generalist...specialization really matters in this practice area;
- When is the right time to start speaking with a divorce attorney?;
- Gather as much information as you can and understand how the law works in your State;
- The Do's and Don'ts for clients (at the beginning of the process) discussed;
- Managing communication between you and your spouse (practical tips);
- Covid shutdowns have backed-up court calendars - Arbitration and mediation offer alternative processes (with clear pros and cons);
- Your divorce attorney should be a competent litigators and should be extremely familiar with the Superior Court (Family Division judges and clerks, etc.) in which your case will be filed;
Related Content
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Divorce
For all episodes of "Divorce Doesn't Suck" with Wendy Sloan and Daniel Herrold
Divorce Doesn't Suck Podcast Series
Daniel Herrold, Founder of International Dating Club and Co-Founder of Divorce over 40; Wendy Lowy Sloane, Executive Producer and Host of the What’s Up with Wendy celebrity radio show and podcast, announce their collaboration on a new podcast, Divorce Doesn’t Suck. This new podcast will explore every aspect of divorce, including kids, finances, dating, sex, starting over, and more. Daniel and Wendy will share their experiences and fresh perspectives on their divorces, and how they were able to move forward and focus on the future. Guests, including Attorney Melissa Needle, will include experts in finance, law, psychology, dating, relationships, health and wellness, and more. Divorce Doesn’t Suck will appeal to people at every stage of their divorce journey, from deciding if divorce is the right decision to post-divorce relationships and re-marrying.
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. By working closely with you, we can develop a plan tailored for you that is effective in resolving points of conflict on favorable terms. Whether your circumstances necessitate a non-adversarial divorce to put your marriage behind you, a meticulous analysis of your assets to protect your property rights or aggressive litigation to preserve your parental rights, our experienced and knowledgeable Connecticut divorce attorneys work with you to pursue these goals.Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law Practice Areas
The firm's practice areas include: Divorce, alimony, child custody, child support, restraining orders, same-sex marriage, post judgment modification, relocation, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, enforcement and contempt actions, divorce appeals.Needle | Cuda; Divorce and Family Law Service Areas
Our service areas includes: Greenwich, Belle Haven, Byrum, Cos Cob, Riverside, Round Hill, Stanwich, Mianus, Glenville, Old Greenwich, Westport, Compo Beach, Greens Farms, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Island, Saugatuck Shores, Coleytown, Darien, Noroton Heights, Tokeneke, New Canaan, Pinney's Corners, Selleck's Corners, Talmadge Hill, Ponus Ridge, Stamford, Shippan, The Cove, North Stamford, Newfield, Westover, Turn of River, Waterside, Norwalk, Cranberry, South Norwalk, Wilson Point, Harbor Shores, Harbor View, Rowayton, Ridgefield, Wilton, Cannondale, North Wilton, Bald Hill, Belden Hill, South Wilton, Gilbert Corners, Lambert Corners, Weston, Easton, Fairfield, Sturges, Greenfield Hill, Fairfield Beach, Blackrock, Sasco Hill, Fairfield Woods, Milford, Stratford, Trumbull, Fairfield County, Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut.
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WICC MELISSA IN THE MORNING - Interview with Attorney Melissa Needle - March 2022
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Interview Description
Attorney Melissa Needle, Managing Partner of Needle|Cuda: Divorce and Family Law discusses high-net-worth divorce in Fairfield County, Connecticut and Contested Child Custody. Needle|Cuda proudly serves clients in Greenwich, Darien, Fairfield, New Canaan, Ridgefield, Southport, Westport, Wilton and the surrounding towns and communities. We provide "Guidance that Moves Lives Forward."Firm Description (Fairfield County Divorce and Family Law)
Needle | Cuda is a Fairfield County Divorce and Family Law Firm offering personalized, experienced, and aggressive representation in all family issues such as divorce, alimony, restraining orders, custody, child support, relocation, post-judgment modification, and prenuptial agreements. Needle | Cuda is a “high touch” law firm that places a premium on client service. In the comfort of our welcoming Westport office, we discuss your situation thoroughly and provide the information and guidance you need to make a well- informed decision.Attorney Profile
Attorney Melissa J. Needle focuses her practice exclusively on family law. Her firm, Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law is based in Westport, Connecticut, she provides astute advice and counsel to clients throughout Fairfield County--serving Westport, Greenwich, New Canaan, Wilton, Darien, and Fairfield. Ms. Needle has been admitted to practice before all Connecticut state courts since 1990, and she is also admitted to practice in New York. Attorney Needle's approach strikes a hard-to-find balance between aggressive client representation and the preservation family. Before starting Needle|Cuda, Attorney Needle found that most firms in the market practiced at the extreme ends of the spectrum -- either being overly aggressive or collaborative to a fault. Needle|Cuda strives to deliver a service that brings clients the best of both worlds to its clients because the long-term dynamic and health of your family is worth protecting. Attorney Needle specializes is high net worth divorces and deals frequently with closely held family businesses, hedge fund investments/ownership interests, private equity ownership interests, complex family trusts, and other complex assets valuations. A forceful courtroom advocate and expert family law litigator, Attorney Needle has also worked on highly contested custody and relocation disputes, although she strives to help her clients come to an agreement in a less-adversarial manner such as mediation when that is possible. Ms. Needle's experience has also encompassed the preparation of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements and various types of protective orders for domestic violence victims. Attorney Needle also helps clients who have already divorced and who are seeking enforcement of or modifications to existing support and parenting orders. The holder of an "Excellent" peer review rating through Avvo, she has been named as one of the 10 Best Family Law Attorneys in Connecticut by the American Institute of Legal Counsel and a Top 10 Family Law Attorney in Connecticut by Family Law and Practice Magazine. Ms. Needle is a 1987 recipient of a Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University, and she obtained her Juris Doctor from Whittier Law School in 1990. Attorney Melissa Needle is a member of the Fairfield County Bar Association (Family Law Section), The Connecticut Bar Association (Family Law Section), The Bridgeport Bar Association (Family Law Section), The New Haven Bar Association (Family Law Section), The Connecticut Bar Association (Family Law Section) , and the American Bar Association (Family Law Section).
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Needle | Cuda Radio Spot "We are your GPS..."
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Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law's radio spot.
Our firm is advertising on WEBE-FM and WICC-AM through 2022.
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
Attorney Melissa Needle is an active Divorce and Family Law litigator with an impressive track record. Most of the cases in which Melissa appears involve high net worth divorce property division, complex business valuations, highly contested custody, and petitions for child relocation. She is well-known in Connecticut courts as a forceful, but fair fighter; an attorney with great integrity; and as a worthy adversary who does not shy away from litigation if that path is the best opportunity for her client to reach an equitable solution. Melissa understands that divorce is not just about the dissolution of marriage or stop-gap solutions but helping clients develop and negotiate a comprehensive plan for the rest of their lives. Melissa and the firm pride themselves on providing their clients "Guidance that Moves Lives Forward.” Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law, the firm she founded in 2010 proudly serves clients in Greenwich (Including Cos Cob, Riverside, Old Greenwich, Belle Haven, and Glenville) Darien (including Rowayton), Fairfield (including Southport), New Canaan, Ridgefield, Westport, Weston, Wilton -- and the surrounding towns and communities. Melissa 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. Since her admission to the Connecticut Bar in 1990, Melissa has exclusively practiced divorce and family law. Melissa started Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law in 2010. The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys named Needle | Cuda a Connecticut Top 10 Best Firm in Client Satisfaction in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022. Attorney Needle has been a Super Lawyer Honoree in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022.
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Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law's radio spot.
Our firm is advertising on WEBE-FM and WICC-AM through 2022.
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Radio Ad | We are your GPS
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Family Law Attorney Melissa Needle (Westport, CT)
Attorney Melissa Needle is an active Divorce and Family Law litigator with an impressive track record. Most of the cases in which Melissa appears involve high net worth divorce property division, complex business valuations, highly contested custody, and petitions for child relocation. She is well-known in Connecticut courts as a forceful, but fair fighter; an attorney with great integrity; and as a worthy adversary who does not shy away from litigation if that path is the best opportunity for her client to reach an equitable solution. Melissa understands that divorce is not just about the dissolution of marriage or stop-gap solutions but helping clients develop and negotiate a comprehensive plan for the rest of their lives. Melissa and the firm pride themselves on providing their clients "Guidance that Moves Lives Forward.” Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law, the firm she founded in 2010 proudly serves clients in Greenwich (Including Cos Cob, Riverside, Old Greenwich, Belle Haven, and Glenville) Darien (including Rowayton), Fairfield (including Southport), New Canaan, Ridgefield, Westport, Weston, Wilton -- and the surrounding towns and communities. Melissa 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. Since her admission to the Connecticut Bar in 1990, Melissa has exclusively practiced divorce and family law. Melissa started Needle | Cuda: Divorce and Family Law in 2010. The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys named Needle | Cuda a Connecticut Top 10 Best Firm in Client Satisfaction in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022. Attorney Needle has been a Super Lawyer Honoree in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022.
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