What Does the City Attorney Do?

The City Attorney and his office have a wide variety of responsibilities that range from drafting laws (or “ordinances”) that are being considered by the City Council to advising all parts of City government on all legal matters. Other tasks for the department include examining contracts and interpreting the City Charter. The City Attorney has a great deal of influence as the City’s general counsel including the power to bring lawsuits and prosecute misdemeanor crimes on behalf of the city. The department is also tasked with defending the city in civil litigation and advocating on behalf of the City in both State and Federal public commissions and committees of interest. 

The City Attorney is an elected position voted on by City of Los Angeles residents every four years. The maximum time in office is two terms.

Who is the City Attorney?

The current City Attorney of Los Angeles is Hydee Feldstein Soto.