Tenacious Criminal Defense Offered With Dignity And Grace

Most of our clients are experiencing the criminal justice system for the first time and are often overwhelmed and anxious. At Catamount Law, PLLC, we are trial attorneys who approach the defense of criminal charges with compassion, creativity and thoroughness.

Our attorneys are experienced trial practitioners in the state and federal courts throughout Vermont and are ready to help you navigate the complexities of the criminal courts while protecting your freedom and interests from the very beginning.

Defense For Criminal Charges In Vermont

We have represented clients facing the full range of criminal charges – including disorderly conduct, first-degree murder offenses, conspiracy to distribute regulated drugs, and charges related to the production and distribution of child pornography.

We regularly represent clients facing charges such as:

• Disorderly conduct: Charges involving public disturbances, fights or offensive behavior that may disrupt public peace.
• Stalking: Allegations of repeated unwanted contact or following that causes fear or emotional distress.
• Assault: Cases involving threats or attempts to cause physical harm to another person.
• Domestic assault: Assault charges that occur between family members, household members or intimate partners.
• Juvenile court charges: Criminal matters involving minors, handled through Vermont’s juvenile justice system.
• Aggravated assault: Serious assault charges involving weapons, serious bodily injury or assault on protected persons.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs: DUI and drug DUI charges that threaten your license, job and freedom.
• Sexual assault: Allegations of nonconsensual sexual contact or conduct.
• Sexual assault of minors: Serious charges involving alleged sexual conduct with individuals under the age of consent.
• Lewd and lascivious conduct: Charges related to sexual behavior in public or indecent exposure.

Our attorneys are members of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Leaders In DUI Defense

We have achieved high praise for our innovative and unique approaches to the defense of motor vehicle offenses, particularly in the area of alcohol and drugs (DUI and drug DUI). Frank Twarog regularly lectures to fellow defense and public defender attorneys, relying upon experiences gained from the courtroom and through DUI-specific training at the invitation-only National College for DUI Defense.

From broadly challenging the admissibility of Vermont’s DataMaster evidentiary test devices to excluding a Drug Recognition Evaluator (DRE) from testifying at trial, Frank has vast experience gained only from advising and representing thousands of motorists accused of impaired operation.

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested?

Remain calm and polite with law enforcement. Do not answer questions about the alleged crime without a lawyer present. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Contact Catamount Law, PLLC, as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your defense.

Can Criminal Charges Be Reduced Or Dismissed?

Yes. Charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed based on the quality of evidence, as well as legal issues discovered during the investigation. Our attorneys review every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. We negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate and fight to protect your rights in court.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont Criminal Cases

Are you facing criminal charges in Vermont? It can be difficult to know what to expect. The following questions and answers can offer clarity.

What is the “cite and release” process for criminal offenses in Vermont?

The cite and release process allows officers to issue a citation instead of taking a person into custody for many nonviolent misdemeanors. The citation is a formal charging document that orders the defendant to appear in Vermont Superior Court for arraignment on a specific date.

While the process prevents immediate incarceration, it still initiates a criminal case with the same potential legal consequences as a traditional arrest. Additionally, failing to appear at the scheduled arraignment results in a warrant for arrest. Courts treat missed appearances seriously because arraignment is the first opportunity to address the charge, set release conditions and schedule future hearings.

Are there mandatory minimum sentences for criminal convictions in Vermont?

Yes, Vermont imposes mandatory minimum sentences for a limited number of offenses. The minimums sentences apply only when specific conditions are met. The state historically favored judicial discretion, but the legislature has created mandatory terms for certain crimes. These include repeated Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offenses. For instance, a third DUI conviction carries a mandatory minimum period of incarceration under Vermont law.

Some violent felonies and offenses involving particular aggravating factors also include mandatory minimum penalties. Judges must impose at least the statutory minimum when it applies, although they may order a longer sentence depending on the circumstances. These requirements may limit the court’s ability to tailor the sentence below the mandated threshold.

Does Vermont have a “three-strikes” or habitual offender law?

Yes. Vermont has a habitual offender statute, but it differs from the automatic three-strikes systems used in some states. Under Vermont law, a person with three or more prior felony convictions who is convicted of a new felony may face a potential life sentence. This enhanced penalty is not automatic because the prosecutor must file a habitual offender charge for the enhancement to apply.

Even when the charge is filed, the judge retains discretion when determining the final sentence. The habitual offender statute is designed to address repeat felony conduct, but its application depends on the specific case, the nature of the prior convictions and the prosecutor’s charging decision.

Contact Us

Contact us to arrange a confidential consultation at 802-864-9811 or send an email to set up an appointment with a lawyer.