Statement on the Retention of Outside Counsel
The Office of the General Counsel is exclusively responsible for engaging the services of outside law firms for specialized legal needs. Staff, faculty, and students may not employ outside attorneys to represent or provide legal services to the University or any of its related entities. The decision to retain outside counsel resides solely with the Vice President for Legal Affairs and General Counsel.
Personal Representation Referrals
The Office of the General Counsel does not provide personal legal advice or representation to UVM administrators, faculty, students, or staff. The following resources may be helpful towards that end:
- Students: Student Legal Services (SLS) is a student-run organization, funded by the Student Government Association, which aids students on campus with legal problems. Legal counsel is provided by two attorneys from the Burlington law firm of Blodgett, Watts, Volk & Sussman, P.C., whose services SLS retains. To meet the University’s physical distancing requirements, please email legal@uvm.edu or call (802) 656-4379 for an appointment to discuss personal matters.
- Faculty and Staff: The Vermont Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service is available to members of the public at no cost, Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, at 1-800-639-7036.