What does the City Attorney do?
The City Attorney’s Office advises the City Council, City Manager, department and division heads, and all advisory authorities and committees of the legal implications of contemplated policy and administrative decisions made by the City of Fond du Lac. The City Attorney’s Office prepares ordinances and resolutions for the City of Fond du Lac and prosecutes municipal citations. Further, the City Attorney’s Office defends actions brought against the City of Fond du Lac. The City Attorney does not represent any individual person, resident, business, or entity besides the City of Fond du Lac.
Where is the City Attorney’s Office located?
The City Attorney’s Office is located at the City/County Government Building, 160 South Macy Street, 4th Floor, Fond du Lac, WI 54935. To contact the City Attorney’s Office, please call (920) 322-3428.
What is the difference between the City Attorney and the District Attorney?
The City Attorney represents the City of Fond du Lac, which is a municipal corporation. The City Attorney is hired by the City Manager. The District Attorney is an elected official who represents the State of Wisconsin and Fond du Lac County. The District Attorney investigates and prosecutes criminal laws and county ordinances for Fond du Lac County. The Fond du Lac County District Attorney’s Office is located at 160 South Macy Street, 3rd Floor, Fond du Lac, WI 54935.
Can the City Attorney’s Office represent me in my case or give me legal advice?
No – the City Attorney’s Office cannot represent individuals in private legal matters or give legal advice. The City Attorney may only represent the City as a municipal corporation and its employees, departments, officers, boards, commission, and authorities when acting in their official capacities and in the course of official business.
How can I get a copy of the Code of the City of Fond du Lac or a City ordinance?
The Code of the City of Fond du Lac and all City ordinances are available online and in the City Clerk’s Office.
I received a municipal citation from the City of Fond du Lac. What should I do?
Information on how to enter a plea, how to pay your citation, and Lakeside Municipal Court can be found here.
I want to sue to City. How do I do that?
The City Attorney cannot advise you on the procedures to sue the City of Fond du Lac due to our ethical obligations. To obtain legal advice on suing the City, you will need to speak to a private attorney. Additional information on making a claim against the City can be found here.
My neighbor built a fence on my property. What can I do?
The location of a fence is a private property matter. You will need to consult a private attorney to obtain specific legal advice on your situation. The City Attorney’s Office cannot provide you with legal advice.
My neighbor has a tree with branches coming onto my property. I want the tree removed – what can I do?
If the tree poses a threat to the right-of-way, such as the public sidewalk or a City street, the City may be able to take action against the owner. If the tree poses no threat to the public right-of-way, this is a private property matter and you will need to consult a private attorney to obtain specific legal advice on your situation. If your branch poses a threat to the right-of-way, please contact the City’s Parks & Trees Division at (920) 322-3590.