Maureen Elizabeth Donahue

Maureen Donahue

I am very sorry to see this comment and I would love to address this directly with the individual involved. My practice, since its inception, has always been client service centered. Unlike many other lawyers, I frequently work on limited dollar retainers and payment plans. Lawyer fees are mostly based upon time spent. Our time is our tool pack. I frequently agree to do pro bono or free work, as most lawyers, in the appropriate situation. But if you agreed to hire me, used my time and don't pay me - well, I don't know how you sleep at night. I have to pay the grocer, too - if you agree to pay me, I really need you to do that. My goal in practice has always been to assist all clients - single moms AND dads - and to advocate fully for the client within the bounds of the law. I work hard at those obligations. Sometimes the lawyer client relationship is not a good fit. This is why I usually do free consultations - to get a flavor of that. Many times I have suggested to a client that there are many other competent lawyers out there and maybe they should second opinion my advice. I welcome that. The client has to have confidence in the advice they receive. Sometimes my advice is not what the client wants to hear - but that's why you hire a lawyer - and you are always free to take it or leave it. That's your choice. Since this was posted, I have wracked my brain to try to figure out how I fell short to someone. To the extent that this person actually hired me, signed a contract for payment, received my services and now disputes my billing, this is not the forum to do that and I welcome a one-on-one discussion. There is also a mediation program with The Connecticut Bar Association if that would feel better for you. To the extent that they did not hire me, shame on them for trying to negatively impact my business.