City Attorney

General Counsel

The City Attorney is the chief legal officer of the City and is responsible to the City Council for the proper administration and coordination of all City legal affairs. The City Attorney prepares and/or reviews City ordinances, resolutions, contracts, and other legal documents; attends City Council, Redevelopment Agency, Planning Commission, and other City meetings; conducts legal research and renders opinions on a variety of City issues; and provides legal advice to City officials and employees.

Prosecution

The City Attorney conducts the prosecution of most local municipal code violations (infractions and misdemeanors); coordinates with the District Attorney's office; and may personally represent the City in prosecution when necessary.

Litigation

The City Attorney generally represents and defends the City in litigation. In some cases, the City Attorney may recommend the engagement of other law firms to assist the City. The City Attorney also monitors the performance of other agencies and special counsel in the handling of liability and other claims and lawsuits against the City.