The Office of the City Attorney functions as the legal advisor of, and attorney and counsel for, the City and all of its boards, commissions, officers, and employees.

Programs and Services

Departmental Counsel

All legal services are provided to the City Council, City departments, officers, and boards and commissions. Services include the preparation of formal and informal opinions and advice, and preparation of ordinances and resolutions, permits, contracts and other legal documents. The office acts as a legal staff for the Planning Commission and City boards, commissions, and committees, and provides representation of the City before various State and Federal agencies. The City Attorney advises on meeting procedures, including the Brown Act and Ex Parte Communications.

Departmental Management

Management and administrative direction is provided for the department. Departmental activities are coordinated with other City departments, and boards and commissions. Advice and legal services are rendered to the City Council, City Manager, and other departments.

Administrative Services

A broad range of administrative services are provided for the department, including office management and analysis, budget preparation, fiscal control, personnel administration, overall contract administration and coordination of clerical assignments.

Litigation

Legal representation is provided, either in-house or through outside retained counsel, in litigation arising from claims by or against the City, including representation in cases involving contracts, bodily injury and property damage, code enforcement, eminent domain, land use litigation, employer-employee matters and writs. Legal representation is provided where needed in all criminal proceedings involving violations of the Monterey Municipal Code. The City is represented in disciplinary hearings and other adversary hearings before State and Federal agencies and boards. Activities of outside legal counsel retained to represent the City in matters involving litigation are coordinated.

Claims

Claims against the City for bodily injury, property damage and incidents involving alleged City negligence are coordinated with the Risk Manager.