VT Bar VT Bar Family Law

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The best interests of the child

Answer

The parent with primary physical custody presumption

Answer

Equal parenting time presumption

Answer

Maternal preference

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

2000

Answer

1997

Answer

2003

Answer

2009

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Equitable distribution based on statutory factors

Answer

Community property split 50/50

Answer

Title-based distribution to whoever holds title

Answer

Only marital misconduct determines division

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Fault of either spouse exclusively

Answer

Duration of marriage only

Answer

Standard of living during marriage only

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Income shares model combining both parents' incomes

Answer

Flat percentage of the non-custodial parent's income

Answer

Needs-based model based on the child's expenses

Answer

Discretionary judicial model

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

Neither — Vermont prohibits marriage under 18

Answer

16 years old

Answer

17 years old

Answer

15 years old with both parental and judicial approval