Livia DeFilippis Barndollar

Livia DeFilippis Barndollar is a seasoned family law attorney with more than four decades of experience guiding clients through divorce, custody, marital agreements, post-judgment proceedings, and appellate litigation. A member of Pullman & Comley’s Family Law Practice, she also co-chairs the firm’s Appellate Practice Group, both recognized by the Connecticut Law Tribune as Departments of the Year.

Livia earned her Bachelor of Arts with high honors and Phi Beta Kappa distinction from Trinity College in 1978 before obtaining her Juris Doctor from Villanova University School of Law in 1981. Livia also studied at New York University School of Law from 1980 to 1981. Her strong academic foundation supports her commitment to staying at the forefront of evolving family and appellate law.

Throughout her career, Livia has established a reputation for striking a balance between reason, practicality, and strength in her advocacy. She regularly represents clients in complex financial and custody matters, and she is also frequently asked to serve as mediator, guardian ad litem, or attorney for minor children. Her leadership extends beyond practice: she is a past president of the Connecticut Bar Association. She has chaired its Family Law Section, while also serving as a delegate to the American Bar Association’s House of Delegates.

Livia makes significant contributions to professional development and legal scholarship. She authored the alimony chapter for the Connecticut Divorce Handbook, served as senior topical editor for the Connecticut Bar Journal since 2000, and contributes to The Family Advocate of the ABA.

Recognized nationally, Livia has presented at numerous educational programs and has received awards, including the Connecticut Bar Association’s Edward F. Hennessey Professionalism Award and listings in Best Lawyers in America.

Through her practice, leadership, and scholarship, Livia DeFilippis Barndollar continues to shape family law in Connecticut and beyond, combining legal excellence with a dedication to service.

Law Office Affiliations

• Member, Pullman & Comley LLC
• Member, House of Delegates, CBA delegate, Family Law Section, Litigation Section, American Bar Association
• Member, Family Law Section, Connecticut Bar Association
• Member, Fairfield County Bar Association
• Board of Directors, Past President, American Counsel Association
• Former Board Member, New England Bar Association
• Ex Officio Member, The American Law Institute
• Fellow, American Bar Foundation
• Sustaining Life Fellow & Past Director, Connecticut Bar Foundation
• Board of Directors, Connecticut Legal Services

Licensed State

• Connecticut

Education

• Nonmatriculant NYU School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Villanova University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Trinity College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges