Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 18, § 9308

Upon the filing of the petition, the court shall appoint counsel for the respondent, and shall notify the respondent of the name, address, and telephone number of the appointed counsel. Compensation shall be paid by the Department to counsel assigned by the court, any rule or law to the contrary notwithstanding. Counsel shall receive a copy of the petition and comprehensive evaluation and such other documents as may be received or issued by the court. Counsel shall consult with the respondent prior to the hearing and, to the maximum extent possible, explain to the respondent the meaning of the proceedings and of all relevant documents.