The Civil Division of the Law Department performs a variety of roles: providing legal advice; drafting and reviewing contracts; rendering legal opinions; and conducting litigation for the City.
A staff of eight attorneys focus on handling diverse requests, from drafting and reviewing proposed contracts, resolutions and ordinances, defending the City in tort claim matter, and rendering legal opinions as requested, and assisting with the City's legislative program. Law Department staff are also called upon to provide legal advice to City departments, boards and officials.
Another significant role of this department is to represent the City in civil legal actions, including labor, franchise utility and environmental disputes and negotiations. Law staff also provides legal advice to the City Council and City staff.