
It is the mission of the Legal Department to act as the legal representative for the City of Rockford, its officers, and its employees (in their official capacities), and to provide legal advice to its various Departments and agencies.
The primary functions of the Legal Department are carried out on the 7th floor of City Hall, including providing legal services for administrative and legislative issues. Matters handled by Legal Department staff include:
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Maintaining custody of records and city documents, and preparing, recording, filing and keeping all proceeds of the city council
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Appearing for and protecting the rights and interests of the city in actions, suits and proceedings brought by or against it or any city officer, board or department acting in their official capacities
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Prosecuting city ordinance violations, including code enforcement for Building Department, Zoning Division and Fire Department
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Advising and prosecuting, as required by law, matters for certain commissions and committees
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Acting on behalf of the Mayor to issue liquor licenses, and investigate and prosecute violations of the liquor code
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Providing legal advice concerning matters to the City Council and drafting ordinances, committee reports and resolutions as required
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Acquiring and disposing of interest in real estate for the City of Rockford
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Drawing deeds, leases, contracts or other papers as required for the City of Rockford
The Legal Department cannot provide legal advice on non-city matters to members of the public.