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Vermont

Overview

  • The Vermont courts are primarily a state-funded system.  Vermont’s appropriation was increased from $37.6 million in FY11 to $39.3 million in FY12.  The budget increase only served to offset the increase in employee benefits and the cost of using executive branch services like space, insurance, and technology infrastructure.  Its FY11 budget had been reduced during the fiscal year.  Vermont will be able to maintain the same number of judges and staff and will be able to increase the amount the amount needed to cover increased operating costs.
  • To reduce spending, the Vermont courts have reduced their hours of operation.  As a result, time for scheduling routine matters has changed from one to two months out to three to four months out.
  • Technology initiatives include e-filing, e-payment of fines and fees and videoconferencing of hearings.  At this point, e-filing hasn’t helped to enhance the level of court services because their new case management system has not yet been implemented.  Because video arraignments resulted in increased expenses for the Department of Corrections, the Legislature suspended their use.
  • Over the past year, the Vermont Judiciary has restructured their court system, creating a single trial court with four divisions.  Management positions in the trial courts were consolidated. Trial court staff positions that had been paid by the county became state-paid and managed employees.  Best practices are being reviewed for the implementation of their new case management system. All technology is being reviewed to support the restructuring of the Judiciary.

Reports and Articles

Gavel to Gavel

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