Governor appoints Claire Burns as Caledonia County State's Attorney

Vermont Business Magazine Governor Phil Scott today announced the appointment of Claire Burns as Caledonia County State’s Attorney.

She has served as interim state’s attorney since August 1, following former State’s Attorney Jessica Zaleski’s departure. Vermont governors appoint state’s attorney vacancies based on the recommendations of county political parties. Burns was recommended to the governor by the Caledonia County Republican Committee. 

“Claire has demonstrated a commitment to justice and public service throughout her career,” said Governor Phil Scott. “In addition to her legal expertise, she brings valuable experience from the mental health field. I believe her unique skillset will serve Caledonia County well.” 

Burns joined the Caledonia County State’s Attorney’s Office as a Deputy State’s Attorney in August of 2021, after three years working as a Recovery Services Clinician at the Vermont Psychiatric Care Hospital. Burns has worked in public defenders’ offices in Colorado and California, representing individuals at all stages of criminal proceedings, including those facing deportation at the Aurora ICE Processing Center, as well as at a juvenile detention center in Colorado, providing group and individual therapy. 

“I am profoundly grateful to former State’s Attorney Jessica Zaleski, the Caledonia County Republican Committee, and Governor Scott for the opportunity to continue serving Caledonia County,” said Burns. “I do not take for granted the enormity of the responsibility of pursuing public safety and mitigating harm through the due administration of law.” 

Burns received a J.D. from the University of Colorado Law School and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University. Former State’s Attorney Jessica Zaleski named Burns to serve as the interim State’s Attorney for Caledonia County following Zaleski’s resignation in July of this year.

Source: 9.5.2025. Governor. 109 State Street | The Pavilion | Montpelier, VT 05609-0101 

Original article can be found here: Governor appoints Claire Burns as Caledonia County State's Attorney | Vermont Business Magazine