City Attorney

Luis E. Santaella, City Attorney

Article 3, Section 5 of the Charter of the City of Scottsdale establishes the City Attorney as the chief legal advisor of all offices, departments and agencies, and of all officers and employees in matters relating to their official powers and duties. The City Attorney reports to and serves at the pleasure of the City Council.

Additionally pursuant to Scottsdale Revised Code Section 2-116, the City Attorney drafts all deeds, contracts, conveyances, ordinances, resolutions and other legal instruments, when required by the City Council and the City Attorney prosecutes and defends all suits, actions or causes where the City is a party.

Rule 6.9 of the Rules of Council Procedure require that all ordinances, resolutions and contracts be signed by the City Attorney or designee prior to being submitted to the City Clerk's Office for inclusion on a City Council Agenda. The signature of the City Attorney or designee indicates that in their opinion the document is proper as to form and legality.

The office supports legal and advocacy services that assist the organization to enhance the quality of life within Scottsdale and build trust in the integrity of City government.

The City Attorney's Office consists of four divisions: