City Attorney's Office

Q: Can the City Attorney's Office provide legal advice to private citizens?

A: No.  The City Attorney's client is the City of Mount Vernon.  The City Attorney is prohibited from providing legal advice to private citizens.

Q: What is the function of the Mount Vernon Prosecuting Attorney's Office?

A: The Mount Vernon Prosecuting Attorney handles only the prosecution of criminal misdemeanors and infractions committed within the city limits of Mount Vernon.  The Skagit County Prosecuting Attorney's Office contains both civil and criminal functions and handles the prosecution of felony cases, misdemeanors that occur outside the city limits of Mount Vernon and all juvenile cases.

Q: Where can I get a copy of a city ordinance or resolution?

A: Copies of all city ordinances and resolutions are available upon request at the Finance Department (336-6207) or the City Attorney's Office.  This site also carries the Mount Vernon Municipal Code which contains codified ordinances.  You can also find a copy of the Municipal Code in the Mount Vernon City Library.

Q: How do I report a claim against the City?

A: Claim for Damages forms are available in the City Attorney's Office, or you may use the Claim for Damages form provided on this web site.  Fill in all pertinent information and return to our office with any substantiating documents, including, but not limited to, damage estimates, photographs, incident reports, medical bills, etc.  PLEASE MAKE COPIES FOR YOUR RECORDS PRIOR TO SUBMITTAL TO THE CITY.  Claim Form

Q: What happens to a claim after it is submitted to the City Attorney's Office?

A: The information will be immediately forwarded to the City's insurance pool, Washington Cities Insurance Authority (WCIA).  WCIA will proceed with an investigation of the claim and respond to the claimant directly regardless of whether the claim has been accepted or denied.