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Dawn Marie Cutaia

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney at York, PA

5.0   75 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 26 years
    State PA
    Acquired 1996
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Dawn

Learn Dawn’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area
  1. Bankruptcy and debt
    100%
    I help clients figure out the best way to deal with overwhelming debt, whether that be by filing a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, or by negotiating settlements with their creditors or litigating creditor lawsuits.

If you are thinking about bankruptcy you might be nervous, scared, or embarassed.  All of those are perfectly natural feelings, but please know that I truly care about all my clients and there will be no judgment with me.  I fully understand that people file bankruptcy for all sorts of reasons, from job loss, medical bills, and divorce, to name just a few. Sometimes it is because someone just isn't great with money - and that is OK too! :) 

I will be sure to go over all of your options with you, including non-bankrupcy options.  I will take my time to explain everything to you so you feel comfortable with any decision you make. I have been told on more than a few occasions that I make filing bankruptcy fun. So try not to stress and give me a call.  The consultation is free and I promise you that you will feel so much better after we talk.

My firm is small and the lawyers I work with all pride ourselves on being extremely responsive to our clients.  You won't be leaving messages, waiting days for someone to get back to you.  We know that having a legal issue can be very stressful and when you have a question, you want an answer quickly.

 

Background:  Dawn was born in Queens, New York and admitted to the Pennsylvania bar in 1996. She received her associate's degree in 1991 from Westchester Community College in Valhalla, NY, her Bachelor of Science degree in 1993 from Barry University in Miami, Florida, graduating summa cum laude, and her law degree in 1996 from the Dickinson School of Law in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Dawn has practiced a wide variety of law since being admitted to the bar in 1996, including criminal defense, family law, and bankruptcy.  Dawn currently concentrates her practice in the areas of consumer bankruptcy.  Dawn has been invovled with the Middle District Bankruptcy Bar Association for many years, including serving on the board.


Bankruptcy:  Dawn handles both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies, as well as assisting clients with negotiating with creditors when bankruptcy is not an option or not the option clients wish to pursue.  Dawn assists clients with mortgage foreclosures, loan modifications, and the defense of lawsuits by credit card companies and other creditors.  Dawn has been practicing bankruptcy law since she became an attorney in 1996.

Dawn is a regular speaker for the Pennsylvania Bar Institute and the Middle District Bankruptcy Bar Association, where she develops courses and teaches other lawyers about technology, bankruptcy, ethics, and criminal defense.

Dawn was awarded the York County Bar Foundation's Pro Bono Award in 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2005.

Dawn's hobbies include cycling, running, photography, quilting, web design/search engine optimization, and hanging out with her dog, Foxy.  Dawn designed the website for the York Law Day Committee and the York Legal Record and was the driving force behind the installation of wi-fi in the York County Judicial Center.

Awards

Client's Choice 2023,2022,2021,2018,2017,2016,2015
Client's Choice
2023 2022 2021 + 4 ...

Photos and videos

Contact Dawn

Fresh Start Law, PLLC

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  75 customer reviews
5 Star
 
99%
4 Star
 
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3 Star
 
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2 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2023
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Alex | February 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Beacon in a Financial Storm
Several years ago, my married life was in poor health and my financial life was also suffering. The two were intertwined. Unexpectedly, my spouse left the home, a significant amount of debt, and I myself was shell shocked when child support payments began. I was in financial hell and that's when I contacted Dawn's firm. Dawn provided objective legal advice and provided options so I could make the best decision for me. Dawn was there every step of the way throughout the bankruptcy process. I had many questions as new circumstances arose during the process. Dawn would answer my questions and helped improve the total outcome. I finally got through the entire process and Dawn was there for me at the finish line. My financial health is much improved and I am making wiser choices in my financial future. Many thanks to Dawn and her team.
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Response from Dawn Cutaia February 10, 2020
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review - and I am happy that you had such a positive experience. Divorce is one of the major reasons people have to file bankruptcy and that stress - on top of just the regular stress of filing bankruptcy - can be overwhelming. Thank you for trusting me to help you get through it. :)
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Posted by Jamie | February 8, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate & experienced!
Dawn Cutaia is an absolute gem to work with! My husband & I hired Dawn to work on our Bankruptcy case. She helped make an unfortunate situation into an exciting new chapter in our family’s lives! The experience & compassion is what had sold us! Before hiring Dawn we had consulted with a few different attorneys who we had felt weren’t truly listening to our needs, but we didn’t give up. We came across Dawn Cutaia and didn’t look back, only forward! Its never easy making these types of decisions, but with Dawn she made us feel confident in our decision! She listened to our needs, understood our situation & for that we will forever be grateful to have had her with us through this journey. As much of a trying time it was, I would do it all over again with Dawn! The only thing we wish we would have done different- is doing it sooner! I recommend Dawn 100%!!
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Response from Dawn Cutaia February 10, 2020
Jamie - you guys were so wonderful to represent - I had so much fun talking to you both and I am thrilled you had such a positive experience. Thank you for letting me help you :)
Posted by Anna | September 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Customer Review for Dawn Cutaia
After experiencing major financial issues, my husband and I decided to look into bankruptcy. We were not familiar with the bankruptcy process, and we did not know anyone that could give us any advice. After searching on line, we came upon Dawn's name and after reading some of the reviews, we decided to give her a chance. After contacting her, she immediately jumped into action. Working with Dawn was a godsend. She explained everything very clearly: the process and what was expected from us, her fees, court fees, meetings, courses etc. She helped us through the entire process. When we had questions or needed additional help, she would call us right back. She was straight forward with her advise. We could not have done this without her. Dawn became our go to person. We are very happy we found her. Thank you Dawn for everything!!!
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Response from Dawn Cutaia September 18, 2023
Anna - you and your husband were a joy to work with! Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review - it truly means a lot to me! I wish you both the best - enjoy your fresh start - and never hesitate to reach out to me if you have questions. - Dawn
Posted by Jason | August 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledge, expertise and confidence!!!
The 3 best attributes you want in a very experienced lawyer. She has always went above and beyond for me and my family. She has never been wrong about anything she says and can be trusted to do what’s best for you even if it means no money or little money to herself. She really cares about you and not money! We love her! And recommend her to anybody who is even not sure to at least get a consult.
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Response from Dawn Cutaia August 3, 2023
Jason - you rock. I am so glad everything worked out. Thank you so much for writing a review and good luck on your next adventure. I am super excited for you and your family! - Dawn
Posted by anonymous | August 2, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Life Saver
I can't say enough about Dawn. I was absolutely terrified going into this process and she was there until the end and beyond. She walked me through each step and answered my (many) questions. She was transparent and honest about how this would affect my life. If you are on the fence about declaring bankruptcy, I can't encourage you enough to work with Dawn.
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Response from Dawn Cutaia August 3, 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. I am thrilled you had a positive experience! - Dawn
Posted by Andrea | June 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
One of York County’s best
Attorney Cutaia went beyond what she needed to do for my case. I’ve been in contact with numerous Attorneys over the years in both my personal and professional career and she is one of the best. I dealt with her years ago in my professional career and she was always working in the best interest of the clients and since that time I have utilized her for personal matters . She was very easy to contact and always returned my calls or emails in a very timely fashion and was very helpful with my case and went beyond what she had to and helped me navigate until I got the answers I needed. Lastly I highly recommend her and I feel she is one of the best Attorneys in York. I rarely give any reviews but I felt that she most deserved this rating.
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Response from Dawn Cutaia July 18, 2023
Andrea - Wow - thank you SO much for taking the time to write this review. I am truly humbled. I really appreciate your kind words. Thank you <3
Posted by Dillon | May 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
She was fantastic
Dawn was super nice and made everything a lot less scary. She took care of everything and make me feel like I wasn’t alone. Highly recommend.
Response from Dawn Cutaia June 22, 2023
Thank you so much for this review! I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to know I helped you feel less freaked out by the whole process. It can seem very scary at first. Thank you again and enjoy your fresh start!
Posted by anonymous | April 21, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dawn is the BEST
Dawn is very knowledgeable!! She was patient and helpful throughout the entire experience!!
Response from Dawn Cutaia April 24, 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review and I am so glad you had a good experience :)
Posted by Susan | March 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent experience!
Dawn was so kind and helpful. She made me feel totally at ease and unembarrassed by my situation. Ultimately, I decided not to file bankruptcy but she made herself totally available for that decision as well.
Response from Dawn Cutaia April 24, 2023
I am so glad we were able to figure out your best option - I appreciate the trust you put in me to help you do that. I'm here if you need me - but I hope you won't! :)
Posted by anonymous | March 15, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review
Dawn was a excellent attorney. She went above and beyond to explain the bankruptcy process, walked me through every step. She was always available to answer all my questions and concerns. Dawn was very upfront with the process and what I could expect. I highly recommend Dawn her knowledge and commitment to her clients to receive the best outcome is unmatched.
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Response from Dawn Cutaia April 24, 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. I am so happy you had a positive experience. Bankruptcy can seem so overwhelming and I feel good knowing I helped you understand the process. Enjoy your fresh start!
Posted by anonymous | March 6, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dawn was wonderful through the whole process!
When we first considered filing, obviously we were embarrassed and confused about the process. We reached out to Dawn to talk to her about our options and she was helpful, kind, knowledgeable, basically wonderful through our whole process of filing Chapter 13. She was always prompt to answer any of our questions and took the time with us to explain everything. She eased our anxiety and fears. Thank you Dawn for everything you did for us. We highly recommend her services!
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Response from Dawn Cutaia April 24, 2023
Thank YOU for taking the time to write a review. Chapter 13s can be stressful so I am glad I was able to help you feel less anxious. Enjoy your fresh start and please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have questions etc :)
Posted by Leela | February 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome lawyer
Simply the Best! Answered all of our questions & guided us perfectly! Dawn was very patient & knowledgeable
Response from Dawn Cutaia February 24, 2023
Leela - thank you much for taking the time to write a review for me! I truly appreciate it. Enjoy your fresh start. You absolutely deserve it!
Posted by anonymous | February 13, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very professional, easy to work with, and knowledgable!
Dawn was absolutely great to work with. She was on time, professional, easy to work with, and helped me understand the legal language that I was so unsure about. She made sure all of my questions and concerns were addressed and I am so thankful for her help!
Response from Dawn Cutaia February 14, 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time write a review! :) I am happy I was able to help give you the information you needed to understand everything. - Dawn
Posted by Alicia | January 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
BEST LAWYER EVER
Dawn is an amazing person on top of being an amazing lawyer. She is very knowledgeable. She explains things in a way that everyone can understand. She is up front and does not sugar coat anything. We love that. We knew what we were getting into and what we needed to do. We have used her services twice. We have recommended her to a few people, even family. We would 100% recommended her to anyone looking for a lawyer. She is great!
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Response from Dawn Cutaia February 14, 2023
Thank you SO much for writing this review and for saying such truly nice things :) I am glad I was able to help both you and your husband - you both work hard and deserve a break. I'm always here if you need me again. - Dawn
Posted by Bill | January 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent and caring attorney
Dawn was very caring, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. She was always available for any questions or concerns I may have had.
Response from Dawn Cutaia January 30, 2023
Bill - thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. It was truly a pleasure helping you and you know I am here if you ever need me! - Dawn
Posted by james | October 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
she awesome lawyer ,what best i had
she help me under stand stuff if i had problems understanding ,and she talk on phone with you payments where easy to pay to her and she help me get through bankruptcy classes , she even has video chat with you ,she video chat easy and she made leaving message from troubleming problems easy to understand she took care of it as well so thank you
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Response from Dawn Cutaia November 18, 2022
James - thank you so much for taking the time to write this review - I truly appreciate it! I am so glad you had a positive experience. It was my pleasure to represent you. Enjoy your fresh start! - Dawn
Posted by Noel | September 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service!
Ms. Cutaway provided an excellent service. She was knowledgeable, forthcoming, prompt, and attentive from consultation to execution. She told me precisely what I could expect, kept me apprised at every step of the process, and delivered the hoped for result!
Response from Dawn Cutaia September 4, 2022
Noel - thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. I am truly glad everything worked out for you - and if you need me again don't hesitate to reach out :)
Posted by Rob | August 23, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Completely Honest and Trustworthy
I reached out to Dawn because I was in serious financial trouble and though bankruptcy was my only option. Dawn directed me to another option; One she would not benefit from financially but has solved my problems without using her representation in a bankruptcy court. I am grateful to her for her kindness and integrity. If you need a lawyer who actually cares and wants what is best for you, give Dawn a call. I would recommend her to anyone and I am grateful I reached out to her and God forbid should I ever need representation of this sort, I would not hesitate to retain her services.
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Response from Dawn Cutaia August 23, 2022
I am so excited to hear this worked out for you! Truly. Thank you for taking the time to write a review. :). It means so much to me - Dawn
Posted by anonymous | August 10, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
ABSOLUTE BEST
Dawn was a pleasure to work with, always put my best interest first and made sure I understood all the legal terminology. Dawn was dedicated, kept me informed every step of the process, she is very professional and knowledgeable. I am eternally grateful for her services at one of the most difficult times I have encountered she gave me the tools needed to overcome my challenge!! And treated me with respect and dignity. Her advice was always accurate. We are grateful for all the help and service that Dawn has provided.
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Response from Dawn Cutaia August 14, 2022
You are so very welcome! I am so happy that things worked out so well. Please keep in touch and thank you for taking the time to write a review - that truly means a lot to me. - Dawn
Posted by Vicki | July 26, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely the Best!!
When I found Dawn I was at a very low spot in my life. My ex-husband walked out on me & left me in a mountain of debt. I made calls to try to get help & no one would help me until I called Dawn. She made everything easy for me to understand & had my best interests at heart. When I called her with a question I got a response very quickly. The best advice she gave me was to use the payroll deduction for my payments. I didn't have to worry about being late with my payment & I didn't miss it from my check. I have a new start with my life & I owe all of that to Dawn. I will recommend her very highly to anyone who needs someone to care about them & their situation. She's the best!!
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Response from Dawn Cutaia August 9, 2022
Vicki - I will never forget our initial phone call - you were SO anxious. It was so good to talk to you after your case was done and hear all about the good things happening in your life. Thank you too for taking the time to write a review - I appreciate it so much. Enjoy your new life and your fresh start - you deserve it! - Dawn
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.2 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney/Partner
  • Pugh & Cutaia, PLLC
  • 2018 - Present
  • Owner/Attorney
  • Cutaia Law, LLC
  • 2011 - 2018

Education

  • Pennsylvania State University, Dickinson School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1996

Associations

  • Middle District Bankruptcy Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Middle District Bankruptcy Bar Association
  • Member, Board of Directors
  • 2018 - 2021

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Client Champion Award
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2019

Speaking Engagements

  • MDBBA 2021 Annual Conference
  • When Debtors Move
  • 2021
  • 2018 Criminal Law Symposium
  • Opening Statements and Voir Dire in Criminal Trials
  • 2018
  • 2018 Criminal Law Symposium
  • Technology and Ethics in the Practice of law
  • 2018
  • 2017 MDDBA Conference
  • How Technology can Help your Practice of Law
  • 2017
  • 2016 Elder Law Symposium
  • Technology and the Practice of Law
  • 2016
  • 19th Annual Bankruptcy Institute
  • Ethics and Fun
  • 2014
  • MDBBA Bankruptcy Conference
  • Intro to Bankruptcy for New Lawyers
  • 2013
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (6)
Given (12)
Endorse Dawn
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Dawn is an excellent, caring attorney who has been successfully helping clients for over 20 years. I strongly recommend her."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Dawn is a sharp and caring advocate. She knows her stuff and cares about helping her clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A caring attorney and strong advocate"
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Dawn professionally for several years, and I have seen her work in trial several times. She fights for every client and has a real passion for her work."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I regularly refer clients in need of criminal defense and bankruptcy help to Attorney Cutaia. She is highly knowledgeable and effective in both of these areas of the law. Moreover, she is wholly committed to her clients and passionately represents their interests. I strongly recommend her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 03
Relationship: Friend
"Dawn Cutaia has handled some complex criminal cases, and she is always willing to fight tooth and nail to get the best result for her clients."
View more endorsements
Bankruptcy and debt
Estate planning
Litigation
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Car accident