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City Attorney - Main

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1. How is the City Attorney selected?

The City Attorney is appointed by the City Council.
The City's Municipal Code has more information

2. Does the City Attorney advise private citizens on legal matters?

No. The City Attorney cannot provide legal advice to private citizens on personal legal matters. The following organizations may be helpful to individuals seeking legal assistance:
- Bay Area Legal Aid: (408) 283-3700
- Santa Clara County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (408) 971-6822
- State Bar of California Lawyer Referral Service: (866) 442-2529
Bay Area Legal Aid for Santa Clara County

3. Where can I get a copy of the San Jose Municipal Code?

The Municipal Code may viewed online or at the Office of the City Clerk, 200 East Santa Clara Street, San Jose, CA 95113
San Jose Municipal Code

4. How do I report a potential City of San Jose code violation?

You may contact the Code Enforcement Division of the Department of Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement at (408) 277-4528 or file a report online.
City of San Jose Code Enforcement Division

5. What department handles issues related to traffic signals, stop signs, sewer lines, sidewalks, trees, and street maintenance?

The Department of Transportation handles all of these issues. They may be contacted at (408) 535-3850.
City of San Jose Department of Transportation

6. Where can I find a signed copy of an agreement, resolution, or ordinance?

The San Jose Office of the City Clerk maintains records of official City documents. You may contact the office at (408) 535-1260.
City of San Jose Office of the City Clerk

7. How do I file a claim with the City of San Jose?

The City of San Jose has a standard claim form that will assist you in providing information needed for a claim. Completed claim forms must be filed with the Office of the City Clerk. The Office of the City Clerk is at 200 East Santa Clara Street, San Jose, CA 95113.
City of San Jose Claim Form

8. How do I obtain a claim form?

In addition to clicking on the link below, you can pick up a blank claim form at the Office of the City Clerk or at the Office of the City Attorney. You can also call (408) 535-1260 or (408) 535-1900 for a mailed copy.
City of San Jose Claim Form

9. How long do I have to file a claim?

The Torts Claim Act (California Government Code Section 911.2) establishes the time limits for filing a claim for money or damages. Generally, a claim relating to death or injury to a person or to personal property should be filed within six (6) months from the date of occurrence.
CA Government Code Section 911.2

10. What should be included with a claim?

In order to investigate a claim, you should state how you computed the amount of the claim. You should attach copies of repair estimates, photographs, receipts, wage loss verification, and other documents that support the claim.

11. What happens after a claim has been filed with the City of San Jose?

The claim will be forwarded to the Office of the City Attorney for investigation and resolution. It is the practice of the Office to complete investigation within forty-five (45) days of receiving a claim whenever possible. Some claims may take longer due to complexity. The Office of the City Attorney will contact you upon conclusion of the investigation. You may call the Office at (408) 535-1900 if you have questions regarding your claim.

12. How do I obtain a copy of a public record in San Jose?

To review or receive a copy of a public record, you must make a request to the City department that has the records you are interested in viewing. Please refer to the California Public Records Act and the City of San Jose Public Record Policy for additional information.
City of San Jose Public Records Policy