House concurrent resolution honoring criminal defense and personal injury attorney and Thetford Academy indoor track coach Charles Buttrey of Thetford
HCR033 is a ceremonial House concurrent resolution that honors Charles Buttrey of Thetford for his long career as a criminal defense and personal injury attorney and for his service as the Thetford Academy boys’ indoor track coach. The resolution recounts his education at Vermont Law and Graduate School, his legal practice in Vermont and New Hampshire, and his work in New Hampshire’s public defender conflict program representing indigent clients. It also notes his personal injury practice, his use of memorable television advertising, and his recent graduate degree in theology.
The resolution further recognizes Buttrey’s coaching accomplishments, including Thetford Academy’s 2025 Division II indoor track championship, and his decision to step away from active legal practice after 38 years. It highlights his continued interest in criminal justice reform, including volunteer work with the Orange County Restorative Justice Center and advocacy to eliminate life without parole sentences in Vermont and New Hampshire. As a concurrent resolution, the measure does not change substantive law or amend any statutes; it is a formal legislative commendation directed to be sent to him by the Secretary of State.
HCR033 has no direct legal or regulatory effect and does not amend Vermont statutes, create programs, appropriate funds, or alter rights or obligations. Its impact is symbolic: it places the General Assembly’s recognition on the record for an individual Vermonter, while also publicly acknowledging themes of criminal defense, restorative justice, and high school athletics. The only operational action required is transmission of the resolution to Charles Buttrey.
The overall sentiment surrounding the resolution is strongly positive and celebratory. The text is written in a laudatory tone, emphasizing Buttrey’s professional dedication, courtroom skill, coaching success, and civic-minded reform efforts. Because no committee transcript or vote history is provided, there is no evidence of opposition or divided sentiment in the available record.
There is no recorded contention in the available materials, and no committee debate or roll-call vote is included. The only potentially sensitive policy references are the resolution’s praise for criminal defense work, public defender representation, and Buttrey’s advocacy against life without parole sentences, but these are presented as part of his biography rather than as disputed legislative proposals. As a ceremonial honor, the measure appears noncontroversial.