Vermont Superior Courts
Each of Vermont's 14 counties has a Superior Court. These courts have
exclusive jurisdiction over most civil cases, which involve the private rights
of individuals or organizations. Examples of civil cases heard in Superior Court
include:
-
orders of protection for victims of stalking and sexual assault.
- an injury or wrong resulting from the action (or inaction) of an individual
or organization, tort.
- a dispute over a legal agreement, contract.
- a dispute over the ownership or use of real estate, real property.
- a dispute involving damages of $5,000 or less,
small claims.
- a request that the court review the decision of a lower court or government
agency, appeal.
Litigants in cases heard in Superior Court may hire attorneys to act on their
behalf during court proceedings or may choose to represent themselves.
The facts of the case may be decided by a panel of three judges - the
Presiding Judge and the 2 Assistant Judges - or by a jury. Judgment is based on
the preponderance of evidence; the plaintiff must present evidence to prove his
or her claim that is more convincing to the judge or jury than that presented by
the defendant.
There are twelve Superior Court judges. These judges may hear Superior,
District or Family Court cases. Trial Court law clerks perform the legal
research necessary to help judges reach well-informed decisions. Superior Court
Clerks and their staff are responsible for the daily operations of the Court.
Select a county to find the judge(s), court manager, deputy court
manager, address, telephone number and two week calendar for each Superior
Court.