Ed Adrian

Ed Adrian is an attorney at Monaghan Safar PLLC in Burlington, Vermont. He advises businesses and individuals on employment and labor law and assists municipalities with legal matters. His practice also includes professional regulation and education issues affecting parents and students. He represents private and public sector clients in civil, administrative, and criminal litigation, bringing a government background to questions involving regulatory obligations and contested proceedings.

Ed received a J.D. and a Master of Studies in Environmental Law and Policy from Vermont Law School in 1996. He earned a B.A. in Political Science and Philosophy from the University of Vermont in 1992. That education connects legal analysis with public policy and environmental questions. For clients facing regulatory or institutional decisions, understanding how legal standards apply to their circumstances is an essential starting point.

Ed served for ten years as a State Prosecuting Attorney with Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation, including five years as Chief Prosecuting Attorney. He litigated more than a thousand cases before professional boards. He previously represented municipalities and school districts and served as a Deputy State’s Attorney in Franklin County. His experience includes employment, land use, zoning, and civil litigation in multiple courts and administrative forums.

Ed Adrian’s public service includes membership on the Burlington City Council from 2007 through 2012 and appointments to state commissions and boards. He has also held leadership roles within bar organizations. His practice addresses decisions that can affect professional livelihoods, public institutions, and workplace relationships. Those matters call for attention to both procedure and practical consequences, informed by an understanding of the regulatory setting in which clients operate.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Monaghan Safar PLLC
• Member, Vermont Bar Association
• Held every leadership position, Vermont Bar Association Young Lawyers (1999-2006)
• Board Member, Vermont Bar Association Board of Bar Managers
• District Representative, American Bar Association/Young Lawyers Division
• Chair, Burlington Library Commission
• Member, Burlington City Council (2007-2012)
• Member, Vermont Commission on Women (2018)
• Member, Vermont Legislative Apportionment Board (2019)

Licensed State

• Vermont

Education

• Vermont Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Vermont Law School
  Master of Studies in Environmental Law and Policy
• University of Vermont
  Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science and Philosophy

Awards & Badges