Protecting the City, Serving the People

The Office of the San Francisco City Attorney serves as the legal counsel and representative for the City and County of San Francisco. Headed by the City Attorney, David Chiu, the office is dedicated to upholding the law, protecting the rights of San Francisco residents, and ensuring that our city operates fairly and ethically. The City Attorney's Office acts as a guardian of the public interest, vigorously pursuing legal actions to address critical issues facing our community.

Our Mission and Purpose

We champion justice and equality for all San Francisco residents. Our mission is multifaceted: to provide expert legal guidance and representation to city departments and agencies; to enforce local laws and ordinances; to advocate for the rights and interests of the community; and to promote transparency and accountability in government. The City Attorney's Office takes pride in its commitment to accessible and effective legal services for all San Franciscans.

Protecting the Public Interest

The City Attorney's Office handles a wide range of significant legal matters impacting the lives of San Franciscans.

Criminal Prosecutions: We prosecute individuals and corporations for violations of city ordinances, including offenses related to public safety, quality of life, and consumer protection.
Civil Litigation: We represent the city in civil lawsuits, defending against claims that arise from potential liability and pursuing legal actions to protect municipal assets and interests.
Governmental Ethics and Transparency: We provide legal counsel to city officials and employees on matters of ethics and compliance, ensuring adherence to open government principles and fostering public trust. We also handle public records requests and provide guidance on transparency in city operations.
Community Advocacy:

We prioritize the needs of underserved communities and advocate for policies that promote equity and justice. Several of our legal teams are dedicated to addressing critical issues impacting San Francisco's residents, such as access to affordable housing, fair employment practices, and protection from environmental hazards.

Beyond Litigation: Providing Essential Services**

The City Attorney's Office plays a vital role in serving the public through various programs and initiatives:

File a Claim: We offer a streamlined process for residents to file claims against the city for personal injuries or property damage.
Report A Complaint: We provide a platform for citizens to report concerns regarding potential violations of city laws and ordinances, ensuring prompt attention to issues impacting public health, safety, and well-being.
Legal Opinions: We issue legal opinions to city departments and agencies, providing guidance on legal issues related to their operations and decision-making.
Good Government Training: We offer training programs to city officials and employees on a variety of legal and ethical topics, promoting best practices in governance and public service.