D. Susanne Snearly, Esq
Partner
D. Susanne Snearly, Esq., an accomplished attorney, holds a Juris Doctorate from Western New England University School of Law, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Psychology and Child Development from Western Connecticut State University. Licensed to practice in Connecticut, as well as in the U.S. Federal and Tax Courts, her legal expertise is primarily focused on family law. This encompasses a range of issues including tax implications in custody, property, and probate matters.
In her comprehensive approach to family law, Attorney Snearly skillfully handles various aspects ranging from prenuptial agreements to divorce, custody issues, and retirement considerations in divorce scenarios. Her commitment to family matters extends to her role as a court-appointed Special Master in the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program across the Waterbury, Danbury, and Litchfield Judicial Districts. Additionally, she serves as a court-appointed attorney or Guardian ad Litem, advocating for the rights of children and the elderly in family law cases.
A dedicated member of the Board of Directors for The Connecticut Council for Non-Adversarial Divorce (CCND), Attorney Snearly also contributes to academia. She has imparted her knowledge as a lecturer in Family Law, Business Law, and Advanced Legal Research and Writing at local colleges. Her expertise frequently finds her speaking at community events on diverse topics, including women’s issues, domestic violence, and probate law.
Attorney Snearly's latest scholarly contribution is her article on Collaborative Divorce in the Fall 2023 edition of “Family Advocate,” published by the American Bar Association. This publication underscores her extensive training and expertise in this progressive field of family law.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
- Connecticut Bar Association, Family Law Section, Executive Committee
- Fellow, American Bar Foundation
- Connecticut Council for Non-Adversarial Divorce, Board of Directors (www.gooddivorcect.com)
- Waterbury Bar Association, Past President, past Board of Directors, past Chair of Family Law and Probate Sections
- Past Y.M.C.A. of Naugatuck Valley, Board of Directors
- Former "Law Works For People" program, pro bono attorney
- The National Honor Society in Psychology, Psi Chi, past president of WCSU Chapter
- Outstanding Young Women in Law
- Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in Connecticut
- Super Lawyer from 2008 to present (www.superlawyers.com) .
Robert J. Cartoceti, Esq.
PARTNER
"Bob” Cartoceti, a third-generation Southbury resident, boasts an impressive educational background, having graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Connecticut in 1979. He furthered his academic pursuits at Quinnipiac University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor in 1982 and earning a spot on the National Moot Court team.
Since joining the Connecticut Bar in 1982, Cartoceti has developed a diverse and extensive legal practice. His notable professional achievements include a successful argument before the Connecticut Appellate Court, leading to the rare overturning of a trial court’s decision in a dissolution of marriage case. He has also secured total permanent disability compensation for an 83-year-old client and won full benefits for a correctional officer injured on duty.
His commitment to justice extends beyond the courtroom. Working pro bono with the Connecticut Civil Liberties Union, he successfully defended the First Amendment rights of college students who were wrongfully arrested for protesting a circus on campus. Dedicated to his community, Cartoceti served as the town committee party chairman in Southbury for over a decade and remains actively involved in local affairs.
Cartoceti also enriches the legal field through education, having been an adjunct professor in the Connecticut Community College system for over 20 years. His practice, now concentrated on personal injury, estate planning, probate, and real estate transactions, spans the entire State of Connecticut. Known for his strength and compassion, he values the trust his clients place in him and remains committed to advocating zealously on their behalf.
Rebecca J. Matos
Paralegal
Rebecca "Becky" Matos, a seasoned paralegal and Pennsylvania native, marks her 20th anniversary with our law firm in November 2023. A proud alumna of Southern Connecticut State University, Becky brought years of legal experience when she joined us in 2003. Known for her personable approach, she works closely with clients, offering invaluable support not only to our firm but also to the courts and her peers in the legal community.
Renowned for her expertise as a family paralegal, Becky also excels in real estate closings and probate matters. Her commitment to professional growth is evident in her ongoing pursuit of legal education and ethics training. Outside the office, Becky's world revolves around her family. She and her husband, Henri, take immense pride in their two talented teenage children, actively participating in their athletic endeavors. This love for sports is a passion that Becky has cherished since her days at Naugatuck High School and during her college years.