CANTON – Michelle Holmes Ladouceur has been appointed interim St. Lawrence County Surrogate’s Court Judge. Ladouceur will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Hon. John F. Richey pending an election in November. Her nomination was approved by unanimous vote of the full New York State Senate on June 3.

The appointment process was rigorous and included a full vetting of credentials, background check, professional references, character references and a thorough interview with the Third Department Judicial Screening Committee.

Ladouceur’s name was then forwarded by the Committee to Governor Hochul as a highly qualified candidate. Following Governor Hochul’s nomination, Ladouceur appeared before the New York State Senate Judiciary Committee for a confirmation hearing, and the nomination was then approved by unanimous vote of the full Senate.

“I am honored by the appointment as interim Surrogate’s Court Judge. It is a recognition of the importance of Surrogate’s Court and the vital role it plays in our legal system. My combined 22 years of experience both in private practice and as Principal Court Attorney for Surrogate’s Court will be of great benefit to my time on the bench, and I look forward to serving the residents of St. Lawrence County with pride and distinction.”

Ladouceur has served as Principal Court Attorney for Surrogate’s Court for the last 7 years. Prior to that she was a partner in the law firm of Cappello Linden & Ladouceur in Potsdam for 14.5 years.

Surrogate’s Court handles the estate filings for residents of St. Lawrence County who have died, as well as guardianships and adoptions. Ladouceur’s appointment ensures that St. Lawrence County will have a full-time Surrogate Judge to perform the essential work of the Court until the election in the fall.

Ladouceur announced her candidacy for the position in February and will appear on the ballot in the June 28 primary and the general election in November.