Law Department

The mission of the Law Department is to give timely, practical advice on legal questions affecting the City’s interest and to represent the interests of the City in legal matters and proceedings with integrity, professionalism, and efficiency.

The Law Department is charged with managing all litigation in which the City is a party of interest, prosecuting municipal ordinance violations, drafting legislation, approving as to form all contracts, deeds, bonds, and other documents signed in the name of the city, serving as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator, providing primary staff support for the Citizens Police Review Board and Disabilities Commission and advising the City Council, City boards and commission, City Manager, and department directors on legal matters.

The City Counselor is the director of the Department, which is composed of two divisions: the Counselor (Civil) Division and the Prosecution Division.

Counselor (Civil) Division

The Counselor Division provides legal advice and support to the City Council, City staff, and Commission on issues relating solely to City business. The City Counselor and Assistant City Counselors are also responsible for the management of litigation involving the City; preparing and enforcing City ordinances and resolutions; and preparing contracts and leases.

Prosecution Division

The Prosecution Division is situated on the second floor of the Howard Municipal Building located at 600 East Broadway and focuses on prosecuting city ordinance violations in order to protect the health and safety of the citizens and the integrity of neighborhoods. The Prosecution Division includes the Prosecuting Attorney, one Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, and support staff.  The Prosecution Division represents the interests of the public as a whole and does not represent individuals. The attorneys and staff employed by the office are strictly prohibited from providing any legal advice to private individuals.