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.