David Sleigh

David Sleigh is the founder of Sleigh Law in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, and a trial lawyer whose practice includes personal injury, civil rights, DUI and DWI defense, assaults, sex crimes, and other serious criminal matters. He began practicing in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom as a public defender in 1983 and opened his firm in 1991. His work is centered on representing individuals in disputes with powerful institutions, including the government, insurers, and other parties responsible for injury or alleged wrongdoing.

Sleigh earned a B.A. from Macalester College in 1977 and a J.D. from Vermont Law School in 1982. His legal education was followed by public-defense work that placed him in court early in his career. That combination of formal legal training and sustained trial practice has shaped an approach focused on evidence, constitutional protections, scientific issues, and courtroom advocacy. His background supports both criminal defense and civil cases where the factual record and the conduct of institutions are closely contested.

Sleigh has tried hundreds of civil and criminal jury cases in state and federal courts. His trial history includes acquittals in homicide, sexual assault, domestic assault, and DWI cases. His appellate and civil-rights work has addressed self-incrimination, searches and seizures, medical confidentiality, and prisoner medical-malpractice claims. He has also challenged Vermont’s alcohol-testing practices and represented a Guantanamo Bay detainee whose detention was ultimately acknowledged to have been based on mistaken identity. These matters reflect a practice built around intensive litigation and constitutional questions.

David Sleigh brings decades of trial and appellate experience to clients facing criminal charges, civil-rights violations, and personal injury disputes. His current firm continues to handle both criminal and civil matters, including cases against insurers and government actors. He approaches contested cases through detailed factual investigation, legal research, and readiness for courtroom proceedings. His work in St. Johnsbury reflects a long-standing focus on individual rights and on challenging evidence, procedures, or institutional decisions that affect a client’s liberty or recovery.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, SleighLaw
• Member, Vermont Bar Association

Licensed State

• Vermont

Education

• Vermont Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Macalester College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges