Senate Confirms Peter Hall as Vermont's U. S. Attorney

September 14, 2001

WASHINGTON (Fri., Sept. 14) – The U. S. Senate Friday unanimously confirmed Peter W. Hall to be the U. S. attorney for Vermont, one day after his nomination was approved by the Judiciary Committee through the efforts of the panel's chairman, Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont.

Sen. Jim Jeffords earlier this year had recommended Peter Hall to the White House, and Leahy strongly endorsed Jeffords' choice. President Bush then nominated Hall, shortly before the August congressional recess.

"I have known Peter for many years, and I am confident he will do an outstanding job as Vermont's U.S. Attorney," said Jeffords. "He knows the office first-hand given his many years of experience as Assistant U.S. Attorney. Now I am thrilled to see him assume the job of Vermont's chief prosecutor. In light of the events of this last week, we especially recognize the importance of strong leaders such as Peter Hall in our legal system."

"Peter Hall is a perfect match for this job," said Leahy. "He will fairly and ably represent all Vermonters. I am pleased that the Senate agrees and that we have been able to act swiftly on his nomination."

Hall worked as the First Assistant U. S. Attorney for Vermont under George Cook from 1982 to 1986. He served as Assistant U. S. Attorney for Vermont from 1978 to 1982 under William Gray and George Cook. From 1977 to 1978 he served as a Law Clerk to the Honorable Albert W. Coffin, U. S. District Court Judge for Vermont.

U.S. attorneys serve as the nation's principal litigators under the direction of the U.S. Attorney General. There are 93 U.S. attorneys stationed throughout the United States.

Each U.S. attorney is the chief law enforcement officer of the United States within his or her particular jurisdiction. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Vermont prosecutes violations of federal criminal law and represents the United States in both defensive and affirmative civil matters.