2000 dodge neon shutters when slowing down

I just purchased a 2000 dodge neon and noticed it slips on take off and then while braking it tends to shutter as if it is in to high of a gear. when this happens the enginge wants to die but does not, once it seems to shift back into first gear it is fine. the only gear that seems to be causing a problem is first. can anybody help? the fluid is full as this was the first thing i checked.

Hmmmm .. I would first change the filter and fluid in the transmission and adjust the bands as needed. (also be sure to use the correct fluid in the trans as the wrong fluid will cause problems and do severe damage to the trans) If you don't feel comfortable doing this yourself, take it to a reputable repair shop and have it done. If that doesn't correct the problem, then it may be time for a transmission rebuild. (of course I'm also assuming that your trans isn't computer controlled in anyway) The torque converter may be a cause of the slipping. Hard to say what it is without the car in front of me. If the trans is indeed computer controlled, it may be a sensor such as a speed sensor as far as the downshifting problem ... the slipping on acceleration from a stop is not good.