What We Do
The City Attorney's Office operates as a full-service municipal law firm across four divisions handling everything from neighborhood enforcement and civil litigation to labor relations and real estate transactions.
OVERVIEW
Four practice sections. One office.
The City Attorney's Office functions as the legal backbone of Milwaukee city government, advising departments, defending and prosecuting cases, enforcing City ordinances, and managing the City's legal relationships with employees, contractors, and partners. The office handles thousands of active legal matters across four divisions at any given time.
Real Estate, Education and Housing |
Administration, Health, Employment, Labor, and Benefits |
Neighborhood Revitalization and Ordinance Enforcement |
Litigation |
Each section is led by a Deputy City Attorney and staffed by Assistant City Attorneys with subject matter expertise. The divisions operate independently but coordinate closely on matters that cross practice areas such as enforcement actions that involve real estate, litigation, and ordinance compliance simultaneously.
LEGAL TOOLS
How the office serves the City
The City Attorney's Office deploys a range of legal tools and mechanisms to protect the public interest. These tools are used across practice sections and are often combined in complex legal and enforcement matters.
Legal Counsel to City Government
We provide legal guidance to the City of Milwaukee, its departments, and officials acting in their official capacities. This includes advising on day-to-day operations, program implementation, policy decisions, and compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws.
Litigation and Claims Defense
We represent the City in legal proceedings and administrative matters, including civil litigation and claims against the City. The office works to protect the City’s legal interests, manage risk, and defend the City’s actions when challenged.
Ordinance and Policy Review
We review proposed ordinances, amendments, and policy initiatives for legal sufficiency and enforceability. Our role is to help ensure City actions are clear, defensible, and consistent with governing law, while identifying legal risks early in the legislative process.
Contracts, Procurement, and Transactions
We support City departments by providing legal review and guidance related to contracts, purchasing and procurement, leases, and other transactions. This work helps protect the City’s interests and promotes transparency and accountability in the use of public resources.
Employment, Labor, and Human Resources Support
We advise on legal issues related to City employment, including workplace policies, personnel matters, labor relations, and compliance with employment laws. This work supports effective workforce management and fair, lawful employment practices.
Real Estate, Development, and Land Use Matters
We provide legal support related to City property, redevelopment activities, land use, and municipal projects. This includes addressing legal issues that arise in planning, permitting, public works, and City-owned real estate transactions.
Municipal Prosecution and Ordinance Enforcement
The City Attorney’s Office prosecutes violations of the Milwaukee Code of Ordinances and supports enforcement efforts related to public safety, property conditions, and municipal regulations. This function helps improve public safety and ensure compliance with local law.
Risk Management and Preventive Law
In addition to addressing legal matters as they arise, the office works proactively to help reduce legal exposure. We support City departments by identifying risks early, improving legal processes, and promoting consistent, enforceable decision-making.