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.

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.

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.

Joe Maya has helped me out on many matters. He is very skilled and was able to take care of an…read moreemployment contact, a personal litigation I initiated, and advising and set up of our estate. He really knows his stuff and is a bull when working for you. I would hate to be against him. I can't say enough positive things about what a great result I got whenever I used him.