Legal Representation Program
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need an attorney?
The criminal justice system is complex and can be very confusing. The
State always has an attorney and defendants almost always do. Victims
almost always have to testify and may be questioned at a
deposition.
But doesn't the State's Attorney represent me? No. The State's Attorney and U. S. Attorney represent the people of the State of Vermont or of the United States and you are one of those people. But, attorneys have ethical rules that they must follow. The prosecuting attorney cannot put your interests above the interests of all of the people of the State or the nation. Because of these ethical rules, the prosecuting attorney cannot give you legal advice and does not represent you.
A free attorney? That was the idea! Victims are thrust into a legal system that can be complex and confusing through no fault of their own. Victims of crime should not also be victims of the criminal justice system and that's why the Advocacy Project was created - to help victims understand the system and to give victims legal guidance and representation for the criminal case.
The Advocacy Project can no longer provide legal guidance, but information is still available.
If you want to help the Advocacy Project, please check the
different ways that you can help on the support
us page.
I need a will, can you help me? No. The Advocacy Project only provides legal services to crime victims in their criminal cases.