The Legal Department staff prides itself on being a partner with the rest of the City’s 635 employees in providing quality services to the residents of the community. We strive to keep well-informed and use all the resources available to us so we can provide positive, proactive advice to our public officials and fellow employees.

The Legal Department is managed by the City Attorney, whose staff is comprised of two Assistant City Attorneys, one City Prosecutor, two Legal Assistants and one Secretary. The City Attorney and his/her staff serve as legal advisors for the City.

The City Attorney's Office assists the Council, City Manager and all City Departments with the various legal issues they encounter. In that regard, the City Attorney's Office prepares contracts and leases, provides advice on planning and zoning (land use) matters, addresses purchasing issues, provides input regarding annexation and condemnation actions, and collects monies owed to the City. The legal staff also routinely writes ordinances and resolutions that are considered by the Council and represents the City in all litigation of a general nature, including civil actions brought by or against the City. St. Joseph has many volunteer organizations, including a number of boards and commissions serving at the request of the City Council, and the City Attorney's Office provides advice to these groups about City ordinances and policies