Vermont Law Research: Vermont Courts

The Vermont Supreme Court consists of the Chief Justice and four Associate Justices. The court

* Hears final appeals from all cases originating in state courts and from certain administrative agency proceedings,
* Establishes rules of civil, criminal, family and appellate procedure,
* Administers the court system,
* Admits attorneys to practice,
* Serves as the disciplinary authority for all judicial officers and attorneys.

The Supreme Court has appellate jurisdiction. There is no intermediate court in Vermont. In special types of cases, the Supreme Court has original or exclusive jurisdiction.

The Office of the Court Administrator provides administrative staff support to the Supreme Court to assist in the overall management of the court system and to ensure that judges have the resources and trained support staff that are needed in order to resolve the disputes that come to the courts.

The Vermont Superior Court Criminal Division hears nearly all criminal cases as well as civil suspensions, fish and wildlife violations, and appeals from the Judicial Bureau.

The Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division hears civil cases, including small claims cases, as well as appeals from the Probate court.

Cases arising in Vermont with money damages claims of up to $5,000 may be filed in Small Claims Court.