Legal Definitions - corporation counsel

A corporation counsel refers to the chief legal officer or the head of the legal department for a municipal government, such as a city, town, or county. This individual and their team are responsible for providing comprehensive legal services to the local government. Their duties typically include offering legal advice to elected officials and various city departments, representing the municipality in lawsuits, drafting and reviewing legal documents like ordinances and contracts, and sometimes prosecuting violations of local laws.

Here are some examples illustrating the role of a corporation counsel:

• Example 1: Defending the City in a Lawsuit

  Imagine a situation where a local resident sues the city, claiming that a pothole on a city street caused damage to their car and personal injury. The corporation counsel's office would be responsible for defending the city against this lawsuit. This involves investigating the claim, gathering evidence, representing the city in court, negotiating with the plaintiff's attorney, and ultimately working to protect the city's financial and legal interests.

• Example 2: Advising on New Legislation

  Suppose the city council is considering a new ordinance to regulate short-term rental properties within the city limits. Before the council votes, they would consult the corporation counsel. The counsel would review the proposed ordinance to ensure it complies with state and federal laws, advise on potential legal challenges from property owners, and suggest amendments to make the ordinance legally sound and enforceable.

• Example 3: Enforcing Municipal Regulations

  Consider a scenario where a commercial property owner repeatedly fails to maintain their building, leading to safety hazards and blight, in violation of city building codes. The city's code enforcement department would refer the matter to the corporation counsel. The counsel's office would then initiate legal action against the property owner, potentially seeking court orders to compel compliance, impose fines, or even facilitate the demolition of unsafe structures, all to uphold public safety and city standards.