Mission Statement

The Municipal Legal Services account provides funding on a retainer basis for the Town Solicitor, Special Legal Counsel, and Criminal Prosecutor who are appointed by, and serve concurrently with, the Town Council. The law firm of Ursillo, Teitz and Ritch, Ltd. provides all general municipal legal representation to the Town, in the form of legal assistance and advice to the Town Council, Town Manager, Town staff, and Town boards and commissions (exclusive of the School Department and police prosecutions), as well as providing advocacy on behalf of the Town. The Town Solicitor is proactive, meeting with town officials to anticipate and avoid potential problems before they arise, and tracks state policy affecting the municipality.

Functions

The principle functions include, but are not limited to:

• Provide legal assistance and advice to the Town Council, Town Manager, Town staff, and Town boards and commissions
• Accept service of process on behalf of the Town and defend the Town in all lawsuits not handled by the Town’s insurance carrier
• Address liability claims with the Town’s insurer
• File actions on behalf of the Town where necessary for civil remedies, including enforcement actions against public nuisances and violations of all Town Ordinances
• Represent the Town at sessions of the General Assembly regarding various municipal bills which are being supported or opposed by the Town
• Attend all meetings of the Town Council, Planning Board, and Zoning Board of Review, as well as other Town board meetings on an as needed basis
• Attend office hours at the Town Hall, interacting with town officials and staff on a regular basis

Note: Attorney Terrence Simpson serves as Special Legal Counsel and represents the Town in handling criminal misdemeanor prosecutions and wayward petitions in the District and Family Courts.  In addition, the School Department retains legal representation independent of the Town.