Anne Marie Dowden Saxton

I am writing to share my experience with the legal representation I received in connection with my divorce matter. I believe the representation fell significantly short of the level of communication, preparation, and advocacy I reasonably expected based on the terms of the retainer agreement. The ...retainer agreement stated that the attorney would keep me informed regarding the progress and developments in my case, respond promptly to my inquiries and communications, institute appropriate legal proceedings and take appropriate legal action, and not settle or compromise the matter without my approval. Despite these provisions, I often felt that I was not adequately informed about the status of my case, the legal process, available strategies, or what steps were being taken on my behalf. After approximately one year and eight months, my divorce matter still had not been resolved. During that period, I did not feel that I received adequate preparation or guidance concerning important aspects of the case, including settlement negotiations. For example, I was not adequately prepared for settlement discussions or given a clear explanation of the strategies, risks, alternatives, or potential outcomes associated with settlement. I was also particularly concerned about the attorney's handling of a domestic violence hearing. During that hearing, the attorney did not speak on my behalf as I had expected, leaving me questioning the extent to which my interests were being actively advocated for and represented. In addition, during the course of the representation, the attorney asked me, "Why did you stay married for so long?" I found this remark inappropriate and insensitive, particularly in the context of a divorce and domestic violence-related proceeding. I expected professional guidance and advocacy rather than a comment that I felt was judgmental, victim blaming and unrelated to the quality of legal representation I needed. Given the length of the representation, the lack of resolution after approximately 20 months, the communication issues, the lack of preparation and explanation regarding strategy and settlement, and my concerns regarding the attorney's performance at the domestic violence hearing, I do not believe the amount paid was reasonably reflected in the services I received. Consequently, I sought legal representation from another attorney, who professionally, effectively and efficiently resolved my case in less than a year's time. I am divorced with the whole of my assets intact. I retained counsel because I needed knowledgeable, timely, and effective legal representation during a difficult and consequential period of my life. Unfortunately, my experience left me feeling inadequately informed, insufficiently prepared, and dissatisfied with the level of advocacy provided.

I hired Attorney Saxton to handle my divorce. My case was difficult because my spouse and I did not agree on anything. Ms. Saxton was able to work efficiently, and navigated my case through the complexities of the court process. She was strong in court, and got along well with opposing counsel. H...er fees were very fair.