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Dawn Elizabeth Padanyi

Divorce and separation Attorney at Doylestown, PA

5.0   21 reviews

also known as Dawn Lavallee

  • State Years
    Pennsylvania - PA 16 years
    Massachusetts - MA 17 years
  • Licensed for 16 years
    State PA
    Acquired 2006
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 17 years
    State MA
    Acquired 2006
    Status
    Inactive No misconduct found

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

About Dawn

Learn Dawn’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Divorce and separation
    80%
    Represent clients in all aspects of divorce, equitable distribution, alimony, spousal support, child support, marital settlement agreement to final decree.

    18 years

  2. Child custody
    5%

  3. Child support
    5%
    Represent client in attaching a fair child support order that meets the needs of the children but does not exceed the legal guidelines.

    18 years

  4. Mediation
    5%

  5. Wills and living wills
    5%

Dawn Padanyi is a graduate of Mount Holyoke College and Syracuse University College of Law where she was the Co-Director of the Grant Opportunity Program and a member of the Community Development Law Clinic While at Syracuse, Ms. Padanyi was chosen to receive two grants to perform legal work at the local and state level.

Ms. Padanyi is a Pennsylvania and Massachusetts licensed attorney. She is a member of the Bucks and Montgomery County Bar Associations as well as the Pennsylvania Bar Association. Prior to founding the Law Office of Dawn Padanyi, she practiced law at a couple of large firms in Center City Philadelphia then relocated to practice at a Bucks County law office in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Ms. Padanyi regularly volunteers her legal services to help indigent clients throughout Bucks County.  Ms. Padanyi is a member of the Board of Directors for the Bucks County Bar Association. Further, Ms. Padanyi is honored to participate in the American Inns of Court - Bucks County Chapter among her esteemed colleagues in the legal community.  Ms. Padanyi is available for speaking engagements to community groups.

 

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Contact Dawn

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Law Office of Dawn Padanyi, LLC
25 n main Street
Doylestown, PA, 18901

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  21 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by Erin | March 7, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Support
I’ve never had such an incredible attorney. Dawn truly put her heart into my case and was so truthful. I’ve dealt with attorneys who just want it done and over with and want their money and don’t care. This wasn’t the case with dawn. I HIGHLY recommend her and wish i found her sooner!
Posted by James | September 25, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Custody
Dawn is absolutely amazing. I have been in a conflict trying to get my child for years. I tried many different attorneys before Dawn. She helped me finally get my child back. I couldn’t be happier with the results. Thank you Dawn!
Posted by Javier | July 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer in Bucks County
Attorney Best has assisted me with my child support case She is absolutely fantastic and did a great job. I highly recommend Dawn very professional And cost was affordable from other Attorneys around Bucks County Area. Javi 07-25-20
Posted by Tom | June 15, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Winner; Competent; Responsive; Caring
Dawn helped me achieve my goals and supported me throughout the process. She was very accessible during a stressful time. A clear communicator who clearly cares for her clients. Highly recommended.
Posted by John | March 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce and PFA
I would like to just start off by saying Dawn is amazing!!! I found myself in a really bad situation I was terrified because of this CV-19. I thought it was going to be even harder for me to get out of the situation that I'm in. But Dawn made it super easy after a few emails and not even talking to her on the phone Dawn was already on my case making me feel better. And after our consultation over the phone I knew she was the lawyer for me. She was able to assure me that everything was going to be okay. And right away even before she got her retainer she was working on my case! And has been very aggressively. I recommend Dawn very highly do anyone is out there scared and alone. Dawn will tell you the whole process the ins-and-outs of everything you need to know and make you feel better.
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Posted by Cecile | February 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic and Gifted Attorney
Dawn is by far the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Her knowledge-base is seemingly endless and her ability to present material in front of a judge is noteworthy. Dawn is also incredibly kind and supportive. On numerous occasions Dawn offered emotional support that certainly went beyond the scope of attorney/client obligations. In addition, although my case was complex, Dawn handled the nuances with grace and expertise. She was fully prepared each time we appeared in court and she made a point to review all of the material with me prior to entering the courtroom. Although my case could have gone in many directions, under Dawn's expert care we were able to achieve positive results every single time. Finally, her office staff is equally kind, caring and competent. I looked forward to all of my office consultations with Dawn and always left feeling better about the situation. Dawn is that rare attorney who possesses brilliance, competence, kindness and empathy. I can't imagine retaining any other attorney and would highly recommend her to anyone seeking professional, legal guidance.
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Posted by anonymous | October 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Calm, Excellent, Ethical
I had Dawn take on a case for me that was fraught with complications and ended up lasting longer than what I had hoped for. She was very good at separating the emotions from the facts and doing so in a way that ensured I was always making the right decision while acknowledging the things I was going through. She was punctual, trustworthy, and obviously brilliant. I would refer her to anyone.
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Response from Dawn Padanyi November 12, 2019
Thank you very much for your kind words! It is my pleasure to represent and assist in any way I can. I strive to use my experience and knowledge to explain, reassure and to generally make a difficult time more manageable.
Posted by Brian | November 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Counsel
Ms. Padanyi is a top notch lawyer. She is knowledgeable about a myriad of family law issues and advised me through some very difficult times. Perhaps of greater importance she is compassionate and creative. Coming up with ideas and solutions that I personally didn't even know were an option. It is with the utmost confidence I recommend Dawn Padanyi.
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Posted by Sandra Rowshan | October 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Acquiring a POA and Will for our family
My husband & I met with Dawn Padanyi at her office to discuss our estate and acquisitions and acquire a Power of Attorney for ourselves. Dawn coached us in the most easy, direct and professional way possible making our experience very positive. She was exact in her delivery of the documents and the meeting up for more than one appointment went very smooth and timely! She also informed us as to the importance around our elderly Mother and the acquisition of a Power of Attorney for her, which we plan to secure also with Dawn! We also acquired an updated Will for our family and that she also handled in the most professional style. She is an expert in explaining the details around family inheritance in the event something unfortunate happens within the bounds of a family unit, always using the correct tone with this subject. Willing to spill into the inheritance subject with a second generation of off springs and their ability to secure what is in their right with a Will in place. Giving the client a feeling of closure is important at whatever age her client may experience a potential unfortunate occurrence! She encouraged us to purchase a security box that is waterproof and fire proof & even recommended the local store to buy one. Thank you Dawn for allowing this experience to be made pleasant and easy! I would
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Posted by anonymous | August 26, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding work
My mother and father were separated for nine years and when my mom finally felt she had enough saved up she decided to file for a divorce. After alot of research we decided to meet with Dawn. My mom does not speak english so I was part of the divorce process as a tranlator. From day one of the consultation to the last day when we got the divorce decree Dawn has done an outstanding job. Throughout the whole process Dawn kept us informed of all the developments and explained everything out with great detail. She never got tired of answering our numerous questions either. I also would commend her for understanding our situation of me needing to translate everything to my mom and thank her for all the patience she kept with us. I would reccommend Dawn to anyone looking for a good divorce lawyer.
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Response from Dawn Padanyi August 26, 2016
It was entirely my pleasure! I pride myself on understanding that everyone is an individual with many facets that make up that person's being and I'm very pleased that I rose to the occasion to accomplish your goals! Best wishes to your family!
Posted by George | May 9, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
extremely thorough
Dawn took a great amount of time to explain all of the issues surrounding the last will and testament and power of attorney and living will. She followed up kept me on point and answeed additional questions that we had and had solutions to issues that well very unique Sirius
Posted by Barry | May 2, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wills
I have had the pleasurable experience of hiring Dawn Padanyi to complete my family's Will and Medical Directives. Besides Dawn's vast legal knowledge in assisting us through this process, what stood out even more to me, was the personal interest she took, and patience she demonstrated, in helping us understand every aspect of what we were doing. We were so impressed and knew very early on that we were sitting with the right person. I highly recommend The Law Offices of Dawn Padanyi to anyone seeking a lawyer who is professional, knowledgable, and personable.
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Posted by Phil | November 11, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
Ms. Pandanyi is a very helpful lawyer. She is professional, quick, and responsive. Ms. Pandanyi will take as much time as needed to answer all questions regarding your case. I would use her services again.
Posted by Travis | October 12, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Had all the answers, and handled perfectly.
This was my first time with Domestic Relations. Dawn advised and represented to the best I could have expected. Very satisfied. If I have further issues in this area, I will be using her services again.
Posted by Amy | February 17, 2015
Difficult Divorce Matter
I was separated for 11 years with a divorce matter in Bucks County and child custody in Pittsburgh. I received many conflicting responses regarding the safest and most effective way to have my divorce finalized while protecting my assets. I was fortunate to have found Dawn Padanyi. She effectively eased my mind with a straight forward plan that would not only finalize my divorce, but also protect my share of pension/retirement benefits for my future. Dawn was able to accomplish something that no other attorney in Pittsburgh or Bucks County was able to do for me. Her knowledge, competent decisions and straight forward approach provided me the opportunity to finally move on with my life in a manner that I could afford. I highly recommend Dawn for any and all of your legal needs. I am very grateful that I made the initial call to get Dawn involved in this matter.
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Posted by Carmen | February 5, 2015
Another Chapter In My Life Closed
The reason I titled this "Another Chapter In My Life Closed" was due to the fact that as I was going thru the most difficult, confusing, fearful and alone time in my life, "DIVORCE" I found Dawn!! Not only did she give me peace of mind, but comfort in knowing, as much as I had my doubts, that everything was going to work out. Divorce isn't easy especially when there are children involved. Through our telephone conversations and meetings Dawn was always optimistic and informative. Her professionalism and concern for myself and my children was very important to me . She was thorough and caring when it came to some of the hardest decision that I had to face and make. Through it all I remained reassured by her that everything was going to fall into place, in which, it did. I thank her dearly for always being there when I called and had concerns. She was never but a phone call away. Though she has a very busy schedule, she never once not return my telephone calls. If you are looking for someone to help you out with a divorce, custody case, among so many other things that she does, Dawn Elizabeth Padanyi is the lawyer to call. You will be pleased with the end result as I was. Divorce isn't easy for fun for that matter, but if you want reassurance, affordability and comfort in knowing that you will be taking care of, Dawn is the person to call. You will get that and so much more. On a personal note: Dawn, on behalf of myself and children, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the smooth transition you helped us through and in helping me close "Another Chapter In My Life!! God Bless you!
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Posted by Grant | December 5, 2014
Exceeding Expectations
As a Financial Advisor my clients and I have the pleasure of working with different lawyers and attorneys throughout the surrounding five counties. Meeting with these individuals allows me a great amount of exposure on how each operate their business. It is one thing to be on the advisor side of a client meeting, but when you become the client, things change. When my divorce began in January of 2013, there was no doubt in my mind that Dawn would represent me. Dawn has always displayed a passion for helping families and individuals in any life event. She is extremely knowledgeable and explained in detail any questions I had. Always following up in a timely manner, she is trustworthy and dedicated to her clients. Dawn is someone who I highly recommend for any family law matters and thank her for all of her help.
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Posted by Peter | October 12, 2014
Professional and affable
Dawn Padanyi has that rare combination of being professional yet friendly and empathetic. She made an extremely difficult time in my life bearable. She always kept me abreast of what she was doing, what she thought was best to do and what may happen. Whenever I became frustrated with how slow or convoluted the legal system can be, Dawn Padanyi was consistently patient, compassionate and thorough in explaining my options. I highly recommend her legal services.
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Posted by Alex | August 28, 2014
Great Experience!!
Any legal proceeding can be nerve racking but Dawn made it very easy. She kept me informed throughout my case and was very knowledgable. I'd highly recommend her to anyone!!
Posted by Elissa | January 30, 2014
Family Law
Dawn has an amazing way of making her clients know she has their best interest at hand and that she supports what they think is best even if it goes against her recommendation. She is always willing to take as much time as needed to ensure her clients understand the law and its process. She takes the extra step to ensure she clearly understands her client's needs and wants. She has been the best fit for me because she is willing to involve herself as little or as much as I wish, enabling me to learn and navigate the judicial system with her legal expertise guiding me toward achieving what I ultimately wanted for my daughter. She was not only my attorney but went above and beyond to be one of my best advocates and supporters throughout a long and stressful time in my life. I could never thank her enough for her caring demeanor and the way she made me feel untouchable in the court room.
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Cost

Rates
  • Pro bono 5 %
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Philadelphia Consumer Bankruptcy Project
  • 2014 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Law Office of Dawn Padanyi, LLC
  • 2011 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Montgomery Child Advocacy Project
  • 2011 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania
  • 2007 - 2011
  • Attorney
  • Schwartz Campbell
  • 2006 - 2007
  • Clerk
  • Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services
  • 2005 - 2005
  • Associate
  • Lyon & Fitzpatrick, LLP
  • 2005 - 2006
  • Office Manager
  • Office of Senator John Kerry
  • 2002 - 2002
View all work experience

Education

  • Syracuse University
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2005
  • Mount Holyoke College
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2002

Legal Cases

  • www.padanyilaw.com

Associations

  • American Inns of Court
  • Associate
  • 2018 - Present
  • Ambler Area Running Club
  • member
  • 2016 - Present
  • Martindale Hubbell
  • Attorney
  • 2015 - Present
  • Bucks County Bar Association
  • Director, Board of Directors
  • 2015 - Present
  • Business Networking International
  • Mentor
  • 2011 - Present
  • Bucks County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2007 - Present
  • Woman's Lawyer's Division
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • Montgomery County Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Bucks County Bar Association, Women's L
  • Secretary
  • 2016 - 2016
  • Friends of the Horsham Library
  • Board Member
  • 2014 - 2016
  • Business Network International
  • Vice President
  • 2013 - 2014
  • Woman's Lawyer's Division
  • Secretary
  • 2013 - 2014
  • Women's Lawyers Division
  • Vice Chair
  • 2012 - 2013
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish
  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 40 Lawyers Under 40
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2015
  • Nominee: 10 Best Under 40 Attorney for the State of Pennsylvania
  • American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top 40 Under 40 Family Lawyers in State of Pennsylvania
  • The American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2014
  • Notable Networker
  • Business Networking International
  • 2012
View all awards

Publications

  • AVVO Legal Guides
  • Calculating Basic Child Support in Pennsylvania
  • 2015
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Business Networking International, Bucks county
  • Why Intestacy is Not Preferred
  • 2015
  • Sister U Monthly Meeting
  • Importance of Having a Will
  • 2013
  • FACE Monthly meeting
  • Parental Rights
  • 2012

Attorney endorsements

Received (18)
Given (23)
Endorse Dawn
Family Attorney | Nov 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Dawn for several years. She is an intelligent, knowledgeable and dedicated professional who is attentive to her clients. I would recommend her services to anyone in need of an exemplary attorney."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Dawn for over ten years. Dawn is highly knowledgable and experienced in the areas divorce, custody, alimony, child support and family law mediation. Dawn has always demonstrated the highest level of professionalism in getting the best results for her clients. I highly recommend her."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Dawn is an efficient, detailed, and professional lawyer who takes the time to understand her clients' needs. I highly recommend her for divorce, support, custody, and all family law matters."
Business Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I worked with Dawn as a student attorney when we were in law school. She was diligent and someone whose opinion I respected. She was also a genuinely nice person. I have a number of friends in the Philadelphia area from my time in the Army and at the VA. If any of them needed an attorney, I would send them to somebody who would work hard for them and treat them with respect. I would send them to Dawn. I endorse this attorney."
Family Attorney | Dec 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Dawn is my go-to person for family law matters in Bucks County. She is a smart and diligent advocate for her clients. I highly recommend her."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch lawyer. Highly respected in the legal community."
Family Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Padanyi is an excellent attorney who is both talented and passionate. Ms. Padanyi is highly regarding in the legal community. She is a fierce advocate for her clients."
Family Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An attention for detail; a committed advocate."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Family Attorney | Sep 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have worked with Dawn on different matters as opposing counsel, and found that she was excellent to work with, a zealous advocate for her client, and an overall friendly, intelligent, and courteous person. I am positive that those traits are seen and enjoyed by all of her clients."
Family Attorney | Aug 06
Relationship: Friend
"I went to law school with Dawn. When we talk she knows everything pertaining to her cases. She gets great results for every divorce she tells me about which is a lot of them."
Family Attorney | Apr 23
Relationship: Friend
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Apr 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Dawn is an excellent attorney who is dedicated fully to providing the best representation for her clients. She is both patient and professional, qualities that are essential in the area of family law. Dawn is extremely resourceful and is always willing to share her knowledge and experience with others. This attorney truly cares about her clients and makes herself available to answer all their questions. She has an excellent reputation in the community and among her peers. I highly recommend this attorney."
Family Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Padanyi's AVVO responses demonstrate a knowledgeable and caring advocate."
Family Attorney | Feb 26
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. Dawn Padanyi shows a high level of knowledge in her field of practice and works to achieve the absolute best results for her clients."
Family Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Dawn is an excellent attorney. She is smart, personable and professional. She listens to her clients and answers all of their questions. Her attention to detail is uncanny. I highly recommend Dawn's office for your family law and other legal needs."
Family Attorney | Dec 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She is an excellent lawyer, detail oriented and gets the best result."
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