Services

Board of Supervisors

The County Counsel serves as the chief legal advisor to the Board of Supervisors.

Public Safety and Justice

Public Safety and Justice attorneys support the District Attorney, Probation, Public Defender, Sheriff-Coroner, and County Fire.

Criminal Defense Conflicts Program

The office oversees and administers the indigent criminal defense program when the Public Defender’s Office or alternate defender firm has declared a conflict of interest.

Land Use and Community Infrastructure

Attorneys practicing in this area support the Agricultural Commissioner, Code Enforcement, the Parks, Open Space, and Cultural Services Department, and the Community Development and Infrastructure Department, comprised of Planning and Public Works.

General Government

General Government attorneys advise the Assessor-Recorder, Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector, Clerk of the Board, County Administrative Office, County Clerk and Elections, General Services, Information Services, and Personnel.

Human Services

Human Services attorneys work with the Child Support Agency and all divisions of the Human Services Department, including Adult Protective Services, Family and Children's Services, Housing for Health and Homeless Services, In-Home Support Services and the Public Guardian's Office in Probate and LPS matters.

Health Services

Health Services attorneys counsel all divisions of the Health Services Agency, including Behavioral Health, Environmental Health, Public Health, and Clinic Services.

Risk Litigation

The Risk Litigation team defends the County in civil lawsuits in federal and state courts and represents the County in affirmative litigation.

Special Districts

The office represents a small number of special districts, which are distinct and separate governmental entities, located in Santa Cruz County.

Commissions and Boards

The office assists board and commissions with following applicable laws, including the Brown Act and the Public Records Act, and provides general legal representation as needed.