The City Attorney's client and the nature of the City Attorney's work is not well understood by the community at-large. Many citizens believe that the City Attorney serves as legal representative for the people of the community rather than for a Municipal Corporation. The City Attorney is the attorney for the City of San Luis Obispo, as an entity. Because of the nature of the City Attorney's role, it is not possible to represent or provide legal advice to individual citizens, groups or other entities.

The Office of the City Attorney does:

• Provide legal advice to the City Council, various commissions and committees, and City staff;
• Defend the City against claims and litigation;
• Initiate lawsuits on behalf of the City;
• Enforce and prosecute violations of the City Municipal Code.
  
  

Attorney Office Staff

J. Christine Dietrick, City Attorney

Markie Kersten, Assistant City Attorney

Sadie Symens, Deputy City Attorney

Adria Griggs, Contract Deputy City Attorney

Mark Amberg, Temporary, Part-time Assistant City Attorney

Kelly Holcomb, Senior Legal Analyst

Eric Wooten, Paralegal I

Sarah Zion, Legal Assistant I