Chittenden County Public Defender – Burlington, VT

About the Chittenden County Public Defender

The Chittenden County Public Defender’s Office provides essential legal representation to individuals who are facing criminal charges or juvenile proceedings but cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Operating under the Office of the Defender General, this agency fulfills the constitutional mandate to ensure that every citizen, regardless of their financial status, has access to competent and zealous legal counsel. The Burlington office serves residents of Chittenden County, handling a high volume of cases ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

Legal Services and Eligibility

Representation is not automatic; individuals must apply and qualify as indigent beneficiaries based on their income and assets. Once appointed by the court, the Public Defender’s team handles various legal matters, including:

• Criminal Defense: Representation in all stages of criminal prosecution, from arraignment through trial and sentencing.
• Juvenile Representation: Protecting the rights of children and parents in delinquency cases and Children in Need of Care or Supervision (CHINS) proceedings.
• Post-Conviction Relief: Assisting with probation violations, parole revocation hearings, and extradition cases.

Location and Access

The office is located in downtown Burlington at 192 College Street, situated on the 3rd floor. While the attorneys spend much of their time at the nearby courthouses, the administrative office is open during standard state business hours for client intake and meetings. It is highly recommended to call ahead, as attorneys are often in court.