Question 1

What is the statute of limitations for criminal defense in Vermont?

Accepted Answer

Murder, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, human trafficking, arson causing death, and kidnapping have no statute of limitations. Certain serious felonies (burglary, robbery, grand larceny, embezzlement, forgery, bribery, fraud) must be charged within 6 years. All other felonies and misdemeanors must be charged within 3 years. (13 V.S.A. § 4501)

Question 2

What is Vermont's law on expungement and sealing of criminal records?

Accepted Answer

Vermont allows expungement of records where the underlying conduct is no longer a crime, and sealing of qualifying misdemeanor convictions (after 3 years) and felony convictions (after 7 years). DUI misdemeanors require a 10-year wait. Significantly revised effective July 1, 2025. (13 V.S.A. §§ 7601–7606)

Question 3

What is Vermont's law on dui (operating under the influence)?

Accepted Answer

It is unlawful to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 or more (0.04 for commercial vehicles, 0.02 for school buses). First offense: up to $750 fine, up to 2 years imprisonment, 90-day license suspension. Penalties escalate with subsequent offenses and high BAC (0.16+). (23 V.S.A. § 1201)

Question 4

What is Vermont's law on felony vs. misdemeanor classification?

Accepted Answer

Vermont does not use numbered felony classes. A felony is any offense with a potential sentence exceeding 2 years. A misdemeanor is any offense with a potential sentence of 2 years or less. Penalties are set on a crime-by-crime basis. (13 V.S.A. § 1)

Question 5

What is Vermont's law on right to counsel?

Accepted Answer

A needy person who is being detained or charged with a serious crime is entitled to be represented by an attorney at public expense at every stage of the proceedings. (13 V.S.A. § 5231)

Criminal Defense Laws in Vermont.

Statute of Limitations

Key Vermont Statutes

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