Vermont Superior Court Criminal Division – Burlington, VT

Chittenden County Criminal Justice

The Vermont Superior Court, Criminal Division, widely known as the Costello Courthouse, is located at 32 Cherry Street in downtown Burlington. This facility serves as the primary venue for the adjudication of criminal cases within Chittenden County. The court handles a broad spectrum of legal matters ranging from misdemeanor offenses to serious felonies, ensuring due process and the administration of justice for the community.

Court Operations and Services

The Criminal Division is responsible for managing the lifecycle of criminal proceedings. Key functions include:

• Arraignments: The initial court appearance where charges are formally presented.
• Pre-trial Motions and Hearings: resolving legal issues before a case goes to trial.
• Jury and Bench Trials: The fact-finding phase of the legal process.
• Sentencing: Determining penalties for convicted individuals.

Security and Access

Visitors to the Costello Courthouse must pass through security screening upon entry. Court security officers enforce strict protocols to maintain safety:

• Prohibited Items: Weapons of any kind, knives, and chemical sprays are strictly forbidden.
• Electronics: While cell phones may be permitted, they must be silenced in courtrooms. Photography and recording differ by specific judicial order.

Parking Information

The courthouse does not have a dedicated public parking lot. Visitors and jurors are encouraged to use the Downtown Parking Garage (often referred to as the Lakeview Garage) located nearby on Cherry Street. Metered street parking is also available but can be time-limited. Public transportation via Green Mountain Transit (GMT) is a viable option, with the downtown transit center just a short walk away.