Vermont law boasts one of the oldest state codes, in addition to one of the few that originated as part of an independent country. The Vermont Republic lasted for 14 years, until it joined the United States in 1791.

Law in Vermont dates back to pre-Revolutionary War days. Its code is complex, considering the smallness of the state: Vermont ranks 49th in population, just ahead of Wyoming.

The laws of Vermont are formed by a legislature consisting of a House of Representatives and a Senate. All members of the legislature, in addition to the governor, serve two-year terms.

Vermont's constitution was considered one of the most liberal when it was first promulgated, with some seeing it as the inspiration for France's Universal Declaration of the Rights of Man.

You should know:

1. Vermont state code is heavily focused on agriculture. It includes extensive provisions on the production of maple syrup, as befits the number-one producer of maple syrup in the country.

2. Vermont law firms are scattered throughout the state. Many Vermont lawyers are licensed to practice in both New York and Vermont, or New Hampshire and Vermont.

3. Vermont is not considered a particularly business-oriented state. No Fortune 500 companies are located in Vermont. It ranks 30th on the most recent Forbes magazine list of best states to do business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Know where to find information about Vermont law

If you do any sort of business in Vermont, you should know the best place to find information about laws in Vermont.

I recommend: The Vermont Legislature puts out a complete listing of Vermont state law, as well as a legislative information database and text of bills and other legislative documents. The Vermont Judiciary has a database with all of the state Supreme Court and Superior Court opinions, as well as select federal cases and environmental cases involving laws of Vermont.

Utilize legal organizations to help you understand Vermont state law

Several organizations of lawyers in Vermont offer free legal help on the Internet.

I recommend: Vermont Law Help, a website sponsored by Vermont Legal Aid, offers advice and references on topics ranging from housing to money and debt to small claims. The Vermont Attorney General's Office also offers an array of legal resources and answers to questions about Vermont state laws, many grouped in the "How Do I..." part of the website.

Know where to find Vermont law firms and Vermont lawyers

For any complex legal issues in Vermont, hire a Vermont attorney or Vermont law firm.

I recommend: The Vermont Bar Association offers Vermont lawyer referrals and professional resources for the state of Vermont. Vermont attorneys can also be found in the extensive listings from HG.org, which groups lawyers by state and area of practice.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Remember, if your legal issue is complex, you should hire a Vermont attorney or Vermont law firm rather than try to research the issue yourself.
• •  Vermont is a small state, so the legal community is smaller than in most states. Lawyers located in the state often specialize in more than one area.