Areas of Practice
Divorce and custody cases involving child physical or sexual abuse, or domestic violence
Few legal battles are as emotionally charged as a divorce or custody proceeding. The fight involves presenting evidence related to the best interests of the child, meeting the burden of proof of domestic violence, and many other tumultuous issues. More importantly, when such proceedings involve abuse, either against the spouse (domestic violence) or against the child, the legal battle requires an even greater focus on protecting the victim.
Many times victims of abuse are unable to properly present their case without the assistance of a skilled attorney who has a track record of winning divorce and custody cases involving violence or abuse. These matters require the representation of professionals to not just win the case, but to win it properly, in a way that places the safety and well being of victims of abuse and violence at the forefront.
Richard Ducote is one such attorney, with over 30 years of practice defending and protecting the rights of victims of abuse in child custody and divorce battles.
Problematic child custody evaluators or mental health professionals
Child abuse, sexual abuse, and domestic violence tort cases (damages lawsuits)
Protecting victims’ rights is of paramount importance to Richard Ducote, an attorney with over 30 years of experience in such matters and a proven case record.
Few legal battles involve the moral clarity found when protecting victims of sexual abuse, whether the victim is a child or an adult, a spouse, a relative, or a significant other. Unfortunately, many victims feel the need to hide the abuse, suffering for years in silence. Victims must understand that these are violations of their human rights. Richard Ducote serves his clients’ legal interests with a focus on healing.
Criminal defense of abuse victims and parents prosecuted for protecting themselves or their children from abuse
Violence directed at loved ones is against the law. Being married, related, or the parent of someone does not entitle you to hit, threaten, or abuse those at home. In Pennsylvania, this type of abuse is often hidden behind closed doors, concealed by the victim for fear of retaliation, intimidation, or stigma.
Unfortunately, when these victims do come forward, it is often only the beginning of the emotional turmoil. The victims are called to testify, are asked to make depositions, and are asked to recount the traumatic experiences in chilling detail. Worse yet, these victims may even become the target of litigation by their former abusers. When this happens, Richard Ducote is here to help.
Richard Ducote is proud to serve in the criminal defense of those who deserve it most, the victims.
Family court due process violations
Child custody and domestic violence appeals
Problematic guardians ad litem
Lawsuits against abusive clergy or other professionals
Civil rights violations
Other serious personal injury cases
