VT Bar Family Law Flashcards

Under Vermont law, which standard governs all child custody decisions?

Answer: The best interests of the child

Vermont courts apply the best interests of the child standard in all custody determinations, considering statutory factors under 15 V.S.A. § 665.

Vermont was the first state to legally recognize same-sex civil unions in which year?

Answer: 2000

Vermont became the first state to legally recognize same-sex civil unions in 2000, following the Vermont Supreme Court's Baker v. State decision.

In Vermont, property acquired during the marriage is subject to which approach to division upon divorce?

Answer: Equitable distribution based on statutory factors

Vermont follows equitable distribution under 15 V.S.A. § 751, dividing marital property based on statutory factors to achieve a fair, not necessarily equal, division.

Under Vermont law, spousal maintenance (alimony) is awarded based on which factors?

Answer: Need of one spouse and ability of the other to pay, along with statutory factors

Vermont courts award spousal maintenance under 15 V.S.A. § 752 based on the financial need of the requesting spouse, the other spouse's ability to pay, and other statutory factors.

Vermont's child support guidelines are based on which model?

Answer: Income shares model combining both parents' incomes

Vermont uses the income shares model for child support, which combines both parents' incomes to determine a total support obligation that is then apportioned between them.

Under Vermont law, at what age may a minor marry with parental consent?

Answer: Neither — Vermont prohibits marriage under 18

Vermont prohibits marriage by anyone under age 18, with no exception for parental consent, following legislative changes enacted to end child marriage.