The Vermont Supreme Court has suspended the law license of Addison County State’s Attorney Eva Vekos following her conviction for driving under the influence, marking a rare instance of judicial discipline against a sitting prosecutor.
Court records show Vekos pleaded guilty to DUI in December after being stopped by police with a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit. The court’s disciplinary decision cites “conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice” under Vermont’s Rules of Professional Conduct.
Legal analysts note this action comes amid heightened scrutiny of prosecutors’ conduct nationwide. “When officers of the court violate the law themselves, it undermines public trust in the entire justice system,” said University of Vermont law professor Jared Carter.
The Office of Disciplinary Counsel had recommended a six-month suspension, but the court imposed an indefinite suspension pending further review. Vekos can petition for reinstatement after one year.
This case may prompt legislative review of prosecutor oversight mechanisms. A 2022 study by the National District Attorneys Association found only 12 states have formal processes for disciplining prosecutors.