City Attorney

The City Attorney is the chief legal advisor of City Council, the City Manager, and all departments (excluding the Department of Education), boards, commissions, and agencies of the City in all matters affecting the interests of the City; has management and control of all law business of the City; institutes and defends all legal proceedings in state and federal court, as well as before various administrative agencies, to protect the interests of the City; attends City Council meetings; prepares ordinances and resolutions; draws or approves all bonds, deeds, leases, contracts, or other instruments to which the City is a party; and has such other powers and duties as assigned by City Council.

The City Attorney's Office does not provide legal advice or opinions to citizens and cannot represent citizens in personal or private legal matters. If you need private representation, you may wish to consult your personal attorney or contact the Virginia Lawyer Referral Service at 800-552-7977.