Legal

City Attorney

The City Attorney's Office acts as a legal advisor to the City Council, City Manager and all officers, departments and committees of the City.

 

The City Attorney's office reviews City ordinances, resolutions and contracts, assists City departments with legal issues, and advises the City Council and staff at public meetings.

 

Legal Advice

The City Attorney’s Office is prohibited from providing legal advice to citizens. Individuals needing legal assistance must retain private counsel.

 

Criminal Prosecution

The City Attorney's Office also prosecutes criminal and civil violations in the Des Moines Municipal Court

If you have been charged with a crime and granted a public defender from the law firm of Stewart, MacNichols, and Harmell, they may be reached at [email protected] or (253) 859-8840.

To request discovery on a criminal or civil traffic case to which you are a self-represented party or attorney, you may email the prosecutor’s office at [email protected] or you may fax your request to (206)-870-6872.

 

Victim Advocate

The City Attorney’s Office has a Victim Advocate to provide assistance to victims of misdemeanor crimes occurring within Des Moines city limits. The Victim Advocate can provide victims with:

Safety planning
Instructions for how to request a civil Protection Order
Information on cases filed with the Des Moines Municipal Court
Resources referrals

The Victim’s Advocate, Kellie Pavlov, can be reached 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday at [email protected] or (206) 870-6530.

 

Additional Legal Resources and Commonly Asked Questions

I am in a dispute with my neighbor and need legal assistance.
The City Attorney’s office represents the City in legal matters and does not provide legal assistance to citizens, or become involved in neighborhood disputes. For help with your own personal situation, visit a lawyer in person or call a legal hotline. If you live in King County, the King County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service can be reached at (206) 267-7010.

I am having problems with my landlord, can you help?
The City does not become involved in Landlord/Tenant issues. If you live in King County, you may call the King County Bar Association’s Neighborhood legal Clinics at (206) 267-7070. For more information please see the KCBA website. For more information on the Landlord Tenant Act, visit the Tenants Union or WashingtonLawHelp.org

Contact Us

Tim George
City Attorney
Email

Jacob Gates
Prosecutor
Email

21630 11th Ave. S.
Suite D
Des Moines, WA 98198

 

Hours

Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:00 pm