What is the maximum sentence for domestic violence in Vermont?

Under 13 V.S.A. § 1042 (Misdemeanor (first/second); Felony (third+)), Vermont domestic violence carries a maximum sentence of 18 months (first); 5 years (second); 5 years (third+) and a maximum fine of $5,000 (first); $10,000 (second); $10,000 (third+).

Does Vermont have a mandatory minimum for domestic violence?

Vermont does not impose a blanket mandatory minimum for simple domestic violence. Specific charges or enhancements may carry their own minimums.

What factors enhance a domestic violence charge in Vermont?

In Vermont, domestic violence penalties can be enhanced by: Second offense (up to 5 years, $10,000 fine); Third or subsequent offense (felony).

Vermont Domestic Violence Law

Vermont Domestic Violence Defense

What you're facing under 13 V.S.A. § 1042, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Vermont (VT) domestic violence law.

Offense Class

Misdemeanor (first/second); Felony (third+)

Maximum Penalty

18 months (first); 5 years (second); 5 years (third+)

Maximum Fine

$5,000 (first); $10,000 (second); $10,000 (third+)

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Federal Firearms Prohibition (Lautenberg Amendment)

A conviction for misdemeanor domestic violence in Vermont carries a federalfirearms-possession ban under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9). This consequence is collateral to Vermont state penalties and applies regardless of the state sentence imposed.

Penalty Range in Vermont

Statute13 V.S.A. § 1042 — Domestic Assault

Minimum Penalty

Maximum Penalty18 months (first); 5 years (second); 5 years (third+)

Maximum Fine$5,000 (first); $10,000 (second); $10,000 (third+)

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Vermont:

Second offense (up to 5 years, $10,000 fine)
Third or subsequent offense (felony)

Vermont-Specific Detail

Family or household member includes current/former spouse, cohabitant, person related by blood or marriage, persons with shared child, or dating relationship.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Vermont domestic violence law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.