What is the difference between the City Attorney and the District Attorney?
The City Attorney is the attorney for the City of Sunnyvale and is appointed by the City Council. The attorneys in the office provide legal services to the Mayor, City Council, City Clerk, City Boards and Commissions, and all city departments of the City of Sunnyvale. The City Attorney prosecutes violations of the Municipal Code but not violations of state or federal law.
The District Attorney is an elected official who investigates and prosecutes criminal activity (other than Municipal Code violations) in Santa Clara County. To find out more about the District Attorney’s Office in Santa Clara County you may visit the Santa Clara County’s District Attorney homepage www.sccgov.org/portal/site/da
Can the City Attorney represent private citizens?
No. the City Attorney does not represent individuals in private legal matters. Attorneys in the office represent city departments and employees in matters related to the City’s official business.
How can I locate a lawyer to discuss my legal questions with?
The City Attorney’s Office does not provide legal services or attorney recommendations to the general public. Here are a few links to agencies that may be able to assist you with a referral to a private attorney:
Santa Clara County Bar Association
www.sccba.com
Santa Clara County Superior Court Self-Service Center
www.scselfservice.org
Sunnyvale-Cupertino Bar Association
www.suncupbar.com