Should I Hire a Lawyer or Represent Myself in a Lawsuit Against Dr. Robert Hadden?

The Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer for Your Dr. Hadden Lawsuit Claim

Former gynecologist Robert Hadden worked in prestigious Manhattan hospitals and medical offices, including Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York Presbyterian Hospital.

Hadden has been criminally convicted on federal and state sexual abuse charges and currently faces life in prison. But the fight to hold all accountable for what happened is not over.

More lawsuits are being filed to compensate victims for what they’ve experienced.

If you experienced sexual abuse, assault, or misconduct of any kind during an appointment with Robert Hadden, you are eligible to file a legal claim.

Dr. Hadden Lawsuit: Should I Hire a Lawyer or Represent Myself in a Lawsuit Against Dr. Robert Hadden?

A common thought when filing a Dr. Hadden lawsuit is whether you should I hire a lawyer or represent yourself in a lawsuit against Dr. Robert Hadden.

When making this decision, there are several important factors to consider.

Knowing the pros and cons of each option can help you make an informed decision about which approach is best for your particular situation.

This blog post will explore why hiring a lawyer to represent you in the lawsuit against Robert Hadden is beneficial — plus some steps you can take to ensure you are making the best decision for your case.

Table of Contents

Robert Hadden Sexual Abuse Lawsuit: Civil Action Against Columbia University for Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct

Former Columbia University gynecologist Robert Hadden has been criminally convicted of multiple sex crimes and now faces life in prison.

The U.S. Department of Justice found that Hadden was sexually abusing patients from 1993 to 2012.

Robert Hadden Convicted, Columbia University OBGYN Convicted of Sexual Abuse

The first public report about Robert Hadden’s sexual abuse came to light in June 2012 after a former patient reported him to the police for licking her genitalia in an exam room.

Since then, numerous other reports of sexual abuse under his medical care surfaced, leading to the termination of his medical practice in August 2012.

Robert Hadden Sexual Abuse Lawsuit, Dr Robert Hadden Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

In June 2014, the Manhattan Supreme Court indicted Hadden on six counts of sexual abuse, forcible touching, and criminal sex act.

In 2016, he entered a plea deal with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and pleaded guilty to only two charges.

Instead of going to prison, the New York State Court required him to register as a sex offender.

He also surrendered his medical license at that time.

Evelyn Yang, the wife of former presidential candidate Andrew Yang, came forward in a CNN interview in January 2020, telling her story and highlighting Hadden’s case, which inspired more victims to come forward.

In September 2020, the predator doctor was indicted on six charges of enticing and inducing victims of crossing state lines in the guise of a medical exam.

Federal prosecutors alleged Hadden sexually assaulted many victims, including pregnant and minor female patients.

In December 2021, through civil litigation targeting Columbia University and New York Presbyterian Hospital, the DiPietro Law Firm secured $71.5 million for over 70 women victimized by Robert Hadden.

Robert Hadden Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Settlement, The DiPietro Law Firm

Hadden’s sexual crimes contributed to the passing of the New York Adult Survivors Act in May 2022.

New York legislature extended the state’s statute of limitations so that victims who suffered sexual abuse could take legal action.

The “lookback window” allows survivors one year, from November 24, 2022, to November 24, 2023, to file legal claims against their abuser regardless of when the sexual abuse happened.

New York Adult Survivors Act, Robert Hadden Lawsuit, Dr Hadden Lawsuit

In October 2022, a second settlement was reached with Columbia University and its affiliates.

The $165 million settlement provided financial compensation to 147 women.

On January 24, 2023, the federal court found Hadden guilty of four sexual misconduct charges, with a maximum sentence of 20 years each.

On February 1, 2023, New York Judge Richard Berman granted the request of former patients and prosecutors and remanded Hadden to federal custody while waiting for his sentencing on April 25.

Can You Represent Yourself in a Sexual Abuse Case?

In the face of Robert Hadden’s atrocious actions, victims of his sexual misconduct may wonder how best to take legal action.

It is crucial to consider the pros and cons of representing yourself in a sexual abuse case. Every person has a right to represent themselves in a court of law.

Victims may feel that they are better suited to navigate their case without involving an attorney.

You can research legal processes, court proceedings, and filing deadlines on your own or with the assistance of family and friends.

You may even be able to appear in court without a lawyer.

On the other hand, self-representation in a sexual assault case can be risky and challenging.

Representing yourself can delay your lawsuit if you do not understand legal nuances or procedures, and the accused’s lawyers may exploit your lack of skill or experience in the courtroom.

Additionally, if you mishandle paperwork, miss filing deadlines, or cannot prove your case, you may lose substantial evidence in your favor.

Understanding the legal process before considering self-representation is in your best interest.

It may be better to seek advice and representation from an experienced attorney who can guide you through the court process and fight for justice on your behalf.

Why Should You Hire a Lawyer for Your Dr. Hadden Lawsuit?

Sexual abuse lawsuits are complex and require specialized legal knowledge.

Victims of Robert Hadden’s sexual assault have benefited from retaining a lawyer to pursue their case.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider hiring a lawyer.

Criminal and Civil Laws Are Complicated

Knowing the difference between criminal and civil laws can be challenging and overwhelming.

An experienced lawyer can help you understand and navigate the complexities of civil and criminal law with an in-depth knowledge of relevant laws and how they may apply to your situation.

Sexual abuse attorneys have years of knowledge and experience dealing with these types of cases, and they can guide you through the process in a professional and seamless manner.

Our attorneys understand that filing suit against powerful institutions like Columbia University can be daunting for an individual.

The DiPietro Law Firm has already secured millions from Columbia and made them pay the price for protecting and enabling a serial sexual predator.

A tiny detail, whether in paperwork or court, can make all the difference in a legal battle, and having an experienced lawyer on your side will ensure that nothing gets missed.

The Other Party Will Try To Intimidate You

An abuser’s defense team will use every tactic to discredit your argument and exploit your lack of experience to intimidate or manipulate you.

Having a lawyer by your side will prepare you for any situation and protect your rights.

An experienced attorney can anticipate the defense tactics of the other party, help you build a strong case, and represent your interests in court or negotiations.

By navigating how to use evidence and arguments effectively, they can help you make a compelling case without fear of intimidation from the other side.

The DiPietro Law Firm has gone through years of litigation against Columbia University for its failure to protect patients and its enablement of Robert Hadden.

We aren’t afraid to fight for our clients and we have the proven experience in securing compensation for what our clients have gone through.

Our Lawyers Are Expert Negotiators

While negotiating in and out of court is a powerful tool in a sexual abuse case, it can be intimidating and daunting.

If you’re not experienced in legal matters, it can be hard to understand the complexities of negotiation and know how to get the best outcome.

An experienced lawyer will help you navigate the negotiation process and handle disputed points without jeopardizing your interests.

They are well-trained to negotiate and deliver the best possible outcome for their clients.

They may even know the legal strategies of your abuser’s attorneys, which can be invaluable in the negotiation process.

Evidence Is Harder To Collect Without a Lawyer

Gathering evidence and witness or expert testimonies is essential in a sexual abuse case.

Your lawyer can help you gather evidence, contact witnesses, and build your argument while protecting your rights.

Legal assistance during the evidence collection process will ensure everything is handled appropriately, ethically, and legally.

Your lawyer can also exercise their resources and collect expert opinions and medical records to strengthen your case.

What To Look for in a Lawyer

When looking for a lawyer to represent your case, you should exercise your options and find a law firm with experience in high-profile sexual abuse cases.

Below are a few tips on what to look for in a lawyer:

Free Consultations and Contingency-based Service

The DiPietro Law Firm has been leading the civil litigation against Columbia University and Robert Hadden since the beginning, and we are well-attuned to the legal process in fighting big organizations.

We offer free and confidential consultations to any person interested in filing a lawsuit.

We also work on a contingency-fee basis, which means that we do NOT charge for legal representation unless your case ends successfully.

Expertise in Unlawful Sexual Abuse Cases

Before you hire a lawyer, be sure they have extensive experience in criminal sexual abuse cases.

Look for a law firm that specializes in representing victims of Robert Hadden and is knowledgeable about the relevant laws associated with your lawsuit.

As mentioned previously, Anthony T. DiPietro has been deeply involved in the litigation against Columbia University, having secured what are believed to be the largest settlements ever against an Ivy League Institution (over $236 million so far).

Success in Handling High-profile Cases

High-profile cases are under more public scrutiny and can be incredibly complex.

When selecting a lawyer, review their track record of success in handling cases similar to yours.

Consider the outcome of other high-profile sexual abuse cases they have taken.

This will give you an idea of how successful they may be in representing you.

Familiarity With the Robert Hadden Case

Hiring a lawyer familiar with the Robert Hadden case can be invaluable.

Our law firm is already familiar with the system in place, the defendants, the general arguments, and we have already won millions of dollars for women and girls subjected to unlawful sexual abuse.

Our Lawyers at the DiPietro Law Firm Will Handle Your Case

If you’re looking for a law firm to represent your case, The DiPietro Law Firm can help.

Our founder, Anthony T. DiPietro, has extensive experience handling sexual abuse cases against Robert Hadden and Columbia University.

We have secured nearly $240 million in financial compensation from Columbia University Medical Center for over 200 of Hadden’s former patients.

Our fight for Robert Hadden’s victims is far from over, and we will continue to pursue justice until every victim receives the maximum financial compensation possible.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With Us Today

Hiring a lawyer to represent you in your sexual abuse case can be the difference between success and failure.

At the DiPietro Law Firm, we understand how difficult it can be to pursue a case against institutions as large and influential as Columbia University.

We are here to help make this process easier and provide the legal representation you need for justice.

Sexual Assault Attorneys NYC, NYC Sexual Abuse Lawyers

If you or a loved one experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, or any type of sexual misconduct during an appointment with Robert Hadden, you are eligible to file a legal claim.

We offer a free consultation with zero obligation to discuss the details of your case.

Trust that we’ll keep your story 100 percent confidential and do everything in our power to get you the justice you deserve.

Our law firm can also file your claim anonymously and work to protect your identity throughout the litigation.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Resources for Sexual Exploitation & Abuse Survivors

We’re currently investigating this case and many other cases involving serial sexual predators.

As more information becomes available on our cases, we will share it on the The DiPietro Law Firm Twitter account (@atdipietro).

If you’re a survivor of sexual exploitation and abuse, please contact our Free Consultation Helpline for a 100% confidential and free consultation about your case at (212) 233-3600.

You’re not alone anymore.

Somebody who sexually assaults patients under the guise of medical care DOES NOT deserve salutations.

Robert Hadden is not a doctor. Robert Hadden is a convicted sexual felon and is facing life in prison for the crimes he committed.

The only reason the DiPietro Law Firm uses “Dr. Robert Hadden” in some of our content is so that victims are able to find us when searching for help.

Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at The DiPietro Law Firm, we’re committed to helping victims of sexual abuse and assault find the justice they deserve.

All information discussed during our consultations always remains completely 100% confidential.

Would you like our help?

About Anthony T. DiPietro

Founder Anthony T. DiPietro, Esq. is a compassionate and skilled trial attorney who has completely dedicated the past 23 years of his career to litigating medical malpractice and sexual abuse cases against major corporate institutions including hospitals, medical clinics, schools, and other wrongdoers.

Mr. DiPietro has also obtained some of New York State’s highest verdicts and settlements, and has been selected to New York State Super Lawyers® each year, for the past 10 years in a row.

In 2022, Mr. DiPietro was selected as one of America’s Top 100 High-Stakes Litigators for the landmark cases he’s won on behalf of survivors of sexual exploitation and abuse.

Verdicts & Settlements
Recent Posts
Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at The DiPietro Law Firm, we’re committed to helping victims of sexual abuse and assault find the justice they deserve.

All information discussed during our consultations always remains completely 100% confidential.

Would you like our help?

Related Articles

Cases We're Currently Litigating

Years of Abuse:  1987 – 2016

Brief: 

Robert Hadden, a disgraced Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB/GYN) who worked for Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, was criminally convicted in 2016 of sexually exploiting and abusing patients under the guise of medical care.

Hadden used his position of authority and trust to sexually exploit women and girls for nearly three decades as a Columbia University physician.

All the while, Columbia University and New York-Presbyterian Hospital administrators turned their backs and ignored reports of Hadden’s abuse, gaslighting patients and the public.

Read More:

Years of Abuse:  1979 – 2022

Brief: 

David H. Broadbent is a former OB/GYN under criminal investigation and facing civil lawsuits for sexual abuse of patients.

Broadent worked at multiple medical facilities in the Provo, Orem and Salt Lake City, UT areas.

These facilities included Intermountain Healthcare’s Utah Valley Hospital, MountainStar Healthcare’s Timpanogos Hospital, other Utah health care providers, and he also had adverse action taken against his medical license back in 1990.

Read More:

Years of Abuse:  1961 – 1996

Brief: 

22 predator teachers and administrators, over the course of 35 years.

Free Consultation Helpline

If you have any questions about whether or not you have a case, or just want to obtain more information about what you’ve experienced – feel free to contact us through our secure website chat.

You can also contact us by calling us at (212) 233-3600 or toll free at (800) 215-1003.

All of our consultations are free and 100% confidential. Thank you.