Providing the public with the most accurate and up to date information and qualified criminal defense attorney listings in their state to represent them.

Matthew F. Valerio

6 Baldwin Street, 4th Floor
Montpelier, VT 5633

802-828-3168
defgen.vermont.gov

Matthew Valerio has more than 25 years of experience in the practice of law in Vermont. He started his career as an associate attorney in Paroshinsky Law Offices in Springfield, Massachusetts. In 1989 Mr. Valerio moved to Vermont with his wife, and grew to become the managing partner of a small general practice private law firm, after serving as an associate in the firm. 

From 2001 to the present Mr. Valerio has served as Defender General for the State of Vermont. He was first appointed by then Gov. Howard Dean, and promptly restructured the program. He was reappointed to two more 4 year terms by Gov. James Douglas, and is pleased to continue his work with Gov. Peter Shumlin. 

On March 1, 2013, Mr. Valerio was appointed by Gov. Shumlin to his fourth term as Defender General. He is the only person to serve more than two terms.

As Defender General, Mr. Valerio administers the public defense system, advises the Governor and Legislature on criminal justice policy from the defense perspective, and provides criminal defense training and public education for attorneys and citizens across Vermont.

In addition to his work as Defender General, Mr. Valerio is a Past-President of the Vermont Bar Association, a two time Past-President of the New England Bar Association, a current VBA and NEBA Board member. He just finished three terms on the Vermont Bar Foundation Board. Mr. Valerio is a Distinguished two time Past-President of the Rutland Kiwanis Club, and a Past-President of the Rutland Area Mentor Program. He has also served as ABA-YLD District Representative for the District of Vermont and Maine.

Mr. Valerio has also been an adjunct professor at the College of St. Joseph in Rutland, Vermont, and has lectured at St. Michael's College, Norwich University, Castleton State College and the Community College of Vermont, and in the external degree program for Johnson State College.