City of Palo Alto City Attorney

City Attorney

Department head: Molly Suzanne Stump

250 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

(650) 329-2171

The City Attorney serves as chief legal counsel to Palo Alto’s city government, including the council, city manager, city departments, and all appointed boards and commissions. The City Attorney’s Office focuses on the legal risks and options associated with city actions, and investigates and administers all liability claims against the city. The city attorney also has the authority to enforce the Palo Alto Municipal Code and to defend and resolve litigation against the city.

Molly S. Stump was appointed city attorney in April 2011. A graduate of Boalt Hall School of Law at UC Berkeley and Pomona College in Claremont, California. Stump joined the City of Palo Alto after 15 years in the San Francisco City Attorney's Office. She reports directly to the City Council, and appoints the chief assistant, assistant, and deputy city attorneys.