City Attorney

The City Attorney is retained by the City Council to provide general legal services to:

• Arcata Community Development Agency
• City Council
• City Departments
• City Manager
• Successor Agency

Contract Relationship

The City Attorney is retained by the City Council through a contract relationship, and the City Attorney's client is the City Council, not any individual council member. The City Attorney provides general legal counsel in matters pertaining to:

• Document Preparation
  • Prepares and reviews ordinances, resolutions, contracts, agreements, and other legal documents
  • Prepares legal pleadings, reports, correspondence and other legal documents
• Legal Representation
  • Provides legal defense in matters pertaining to City liability and exposure
  • Manages and defends the City against litigation and claims
• Legal Review and Advice
  • Advises the City Council, City Manager and City staff on legal matters impacting or affecting the City
  • Attends City Council meetings, and other meetings upon request
• Municipal Code Enforcement
  • Enforces and prosecutes violations of the municipal code
  • Supports staff in fairly enforcing community standards and codes

The City Attorney’s role is outlined in California Government Code, sections 41801-41805, City Attorney.