John R. Cuti: The High-Profile Lawyer Behind Martha Stewart’s Case And Alexis Stewart’s Ex-husband

John R. Cuti is a name that preferentially remains low-key—but to those familiar with his story, they understand just how compelling and multifaceted it actually is. A seasoned lawyer, legal strategist, and former husband of lifestyle tycoon Martha Stewart’s daughter Alexis Stewart, Cuti has made a name in the spotlight in some surprising methods. His quick mind, unobtrusive charisma, and presence in corporate and courtroom environments identify him as a prominent player in the American legal arena.

His reputation as a master of high-stakes litigation and as part of one of the most discussed legal affairs of the early 2000s sets the life of Cuti to walk the thin line between public spectacle and personal genius. This article explores the life of John R. Cuti: from his modest start and career accomplishments to his passions, courtroom wins, and what lies ahead. If you enjoy trials or have an interest in the lives of those who toil behind the scenes of high-profile scandals, this from-the-inside-out look at Cuti is full of secrets to share.

Quick Bio

Who is John R. Cuti?

John R. Cuti is an American trial lawyer with a reputation for litigation in areas as diverse as defamation, First Amendment disputes, and large commercial cases. He is also well recognized by the public as the ex-husband of Martha Stewart’s daughter, Alexis Stewart. Cuti has established himself well in high-level legal cases and as one of the founding partners of numerous high-profiled law firms, the latest being Cuti Frisch PLLC.

In addition to his professional image as a lawyer, Cuti also reached the public eye for a moment with his IMDb entry for the 1999 film Music of the Heart and with his close affiliation with the Stewart family during Martha’s courtroom battles. Undeterred by the glare of publicity, he has taken a steady, professional path. His reputation is prevalent in legal circles, including his reputation as a lightning-fast mind with the capability to address some of the toughest legal situations.

Early Life

John R. Cuti was born on June 5, 1965, and raised in Huntington, New York. Since childhood, he was interested in critical thinking, social justice, and debate—interests that would ultimately help him decide on a career in law. He attended Harborfields High School, where he was a member of speech and debate clubs and developed a strong interest in politics and civic duty.

After high school, Cuti earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political and Social Thought from the University of Virginia in 1987. His academic passion and love for learning led him on to New York University School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 1990. At NYU, he was remarkable because of his passion for constitutional law and public interest litigation, which were the foundational elements of the successful legal career that he would build.

Career Beginnings

John Cuti began his career in law with a strong sense of public service. Between 1990 and 1994, he worked in the Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem, providing criminal defense services to the underserved. This early experience showed that he was committed to the protection of the rights of people who lacked access to quality representation, setting a good ethical basis for his future legal career.

In 1997, he co-founded boutique law firm Emery Cuti Brinckerhoff & Abady, the specialty of which is defending civil rights and high-stakes commercial cases. Over later years, he served as general counsel to both MortgageIT Holdings and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. Through these roles, he was able to marry trial savvy with corporate governance, while cementing his reputation as master legal tactician. In 2025, he co-founded Cuti Frisch PLLC with Andrew Frisch—taking an even-handed role as preeminent litigator.

Who is John R. Cuti’s Ex-Wife?

John R. Cuti was married to Alexis Stewart from 1997 until 2004. Alexis, born in 1965, is known for her work in media, especially as the co-host of Whatever with Alexis and Jennifer, a radio show and TV program that gave an unfiltered look at modern life and culture. She is also the only daughter of the legendary businesswoman and homemaking expert Martha Stewart.

Their relationship was formed in the mid-1990s and blossomed into marriage quickly. Their lives were relatively low-key until the spotlight became warmer when Martha Stewart’s legal woes made headlines. Although they divorced in 2003 and finalized their divorce in 2004, Cuti served as one of Martha’s trial lawyers—a move that got media notice. Although their marriage did not succeed, the Stewart family admired Cuti for his professionalism and commitment in bad times.

John R. Cuti’s Physical Appearance

John R. Cuti has a professional and composed appearance that fits his role as a high-level attorney. While he’s not a celebrity in the traditional sense, he’s been photographed during court appearances and public events looking polished in tailored suits, always maintaining a confident yet understated presence. His clean-cut style reflects the seriousness and discipline of his legal career.

Although details about his height or weight aren’t widely available, he appears of average build, with a calm, intellectual demeanor. Unlike celebrities who seek attention through fashion or bold public personas, Cuti’s image is that of quiet strength—defined by integrity, intelligence, and poise, especially during the challenging times surrounding Martha Stewart’s trial.

Net Worth

While precise details about the net worth of John R. Cuti are not publicly available, his long career as a lawyer and managing partner at several firms indicate high earnings. Boutique litigation firm partners tend to make multiple hundred thousand dollars per year, and as a co-founding partner of Cuti Frisch PLLC, he is in a position of secure financial stability.

Besides, Cuti has been general counsel for top organizations, such as MortgageIT Holdings and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia—positions that are usually accompanied with very good paychecks. For this reason, it is safe to estimate his worth between $2 to $5 million. His dedication to his career, but not ostentatious exhibitions of wealth, makes him a success model of financial stability and law.

Social Media

Unlike most public figures or even lawyers who use social media as a branding or networking tool, John R. Cuti has an extremely low online presence. There are no publicly confirmed profiles on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn bearing his name, in keeping with his business and personal style.

While his ex-wife Alexis Stewart and mother-in-law Martha Stewart have embraced media exposure, Cuti’s presence is mostly felt through his legal work, public records, and case appearances. Those interested in following his ongoing work should look at legal publications, press releases from Cuti Frisch PLLC, and notable legal cases that appear in news media.

Future Prospects and Vision

John R. Cuti is still a practicing attorney of active capacity at Cuti Frisch PLLC as of 2025, practicing alongside highly-regarded attorney Andrew Frisch. His company handles criminal, civil rights, and major commercial litigation, attracting clients who need high-level defense and planning. That the firm has a long-standing reputation tells us that the firm will keep growing and getting high-profile cases across the country.

In the years ahead, Cuti can also become a mentor to younger attorneys or a force in public policy via legal scholarship. With his years of experience and attorney expertise, he’s well-positioned to influence the next generation of trial lawyers and contribute greatly to legal reform in civil liberties and constitutional rights.