City Attorney

The Office is responsible for providing legal counsel to the City in the conduct of its day-to-day transactional business and both prosecution and defense of lawsuits to protect the interests of the city. The transactional division of the Office interprets and applies state and federal statutory law, case law, the City Charter and Code of Ordinances; researches legal authority, prepares and/or reviews city ordinances, resolutions, contracts and agreements, interlocal agreements, and legal budget preparation and implementation.  The City Attorney and staff attend all Commission meetings and board/committee meetings as required or requested.  The litigation division defends and settles all legal challenges filed on behalf of or against the City.  This includes challenges to the City ordinances, development approvals, employment actions, civil rights actions, torts, tax liability issues, foreclosure of City liens and mortgages, as well as prosecution of cases to enforce the City’s Code of Ordinances.

The City Attorney’s office does not provide legal advice to citizens, as it can only represent its client, City of Gainesville, including the City Commission, and the departments within the City government.  Citizens may contact The Florida Bar to access their Lawyer Referral Service via phone at 850-561-5600 or www.floridabar.org, as well as Three Rivers Legal Services at 352-372-0519 or www.trls.org.