The Vermont Supreme Court’s Advisory Committee on Rules for Family Proceedings convened virtually on January 23, 2026, to discuss several proposed amendments and rule changes affecting family law procedures in the state.
The meeting began with routine matters, including approval of minutes from the previous session. The committee then reviewed the status of several amendments that had recently been promulgated by the Vermont Supreme Court and are set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Among these were changes to Rule 9(c), which concerns ex parte temporary relief from abuse orders. The amendment clarifies that a plaintiff has the right to present evidence before a court denies a motion for such an order if there is insufficient evidence. According to the agenda, “At the July 11 meeting, the Committee approved the amendment to Rule 9(c) and voted to recommend to the Supreme Court that it be sent out for comment. Comments were due October 3, 2025. Judge McDonald-Cady to report on any comments she has received. Committee voted to recommend promulgation to the Supreme Court. Supreme Court promulgated the amendment on October 29, 2025, with an effective date of January 1, 2026.”
Another change addressed Rule 4.2(e), relating to venue for post-judgment motions. After initial emergency adoption in November 2024 and subsequent review and public comment period ending in October 2025, this amendment was also promulgated by the court with an effective date of January 1, 2026.
Rule 17(f) was amended as well to include proceedings related to maltreatment prevention for vulnerable adults under state statute within hybrid proceeding rules unless otherwise ordered by a judge. This update followed legislative review and committee recommendation before being enacted by the court in August.
Further adjustments included changes allowing temporary conditions of release in delinquency cases prior to preliminary hearings (V.R.F.P. 1(b)(3)), as well as establishment of new rules governing Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs). Both measures were adopted following public comment periods and committee votes earlier in July.
The committee also considered potential new amendments at this session. One proposal aims at clarifying when children may testify in certain juvenile proceedings; another seeks recommendations regarding non-testimonial orders involving juveniles; and further proposals address wage withholding petition scheduling inconsistencies and ensure respectful language throughout family rules.
Additionally, upcoming meetings were scheduled for April, July, and October of next year as part of ongoing efforts by the advisory group.
