Vermont § 3166 - Appropriate forum
Full text of Vermont Vermont Statutes Online § 3166 — Appropriate forum, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3166. Appropriate forum
- (a) A Probate Division of the Superior Court of this State having jurisdiction under section 3163 of this title to appoint a guardian or issue a protective order may decline to exercise its jurisdiction
if it determines at any time that a court of another state is a more appropriate forum. (b) If a Probate Division of the Superior Court of this State declines to exercise its
jurisdiction under subsection (a) of this section, it shall either dismiss or stay
the proceeding. The Probate Division may impose any condition the court considers
just and proper, including the condition that a petition for the appointment of a
guardian or issuance of a protective order be filed promptly in another state. (c) In determining whether it is an appropriate forum, the Probate Division shall consider
all relevant factors, including: (1) any expressed preference of the respondent; (2) whether abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the respondent has occurred or is likely
to occur and which state could best protect the respondent from the abuse, neglect,
or exploitation; (3) the length of time the respondent was physically present in or was a legal resident
of this or another state; (4) the distance of the respondent from the court in each state; (5) the financial circumstances of the respondent’s estate; (6) the nature and location of the evidence; (7) the ability of the court of each state to decide the issue expeditiously and the procedures
necessary to present evidence; (8) the familiarity of the court of each state with the facts and issues in the proceeding;
and (9) if an appointment were made, the court’s ability to monitor the conduct of the guardian
or conservator. (Added 2011, No. 56, § 25.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont § 3166
What does Vermont Statutes Online § 3166 cover?
Section 3166 ("Appropriate forum") is part of the Vermont Statutes Online, the codified statutory law of Vermont. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Vermont § 3166?
A common citation format is "Vermont Statutes Online § 3166" (Vermont). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Vermont law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Vermont official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Vermont attorney.
How does Vermont § 3166 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Vermont can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Vermont.