The City Attorney is appointed by the City Council and acts as the City’s general legal counsel. The City Attorney’s Office advises the City Council, City Departments, District and Agency Boards. Additionally, the City Attorney represents the City in regulatory and court proceedings and works with all Departments of the City on matters concerning City operations.

The City Attorney investigates claims filed against the City, prosecutes and investigates criminal filings and/or citations issued by the Police Department and reviews Requests for Formal Complaints presented by Code Enforcement for violations of the Simi Valley Municipal Code.

Staff

One Senior Assistant City Attorney, One Assistant City Attorney and One Deputy City Attorney—each providing expertise in various aspects of the law—support the work of the City Attorney’s Office.

City Attorney's Office Staff

•  Algeria R. Ford, City Attorney 
•  Sonia A. Hehir, Senior Assistant City Attorney
•  Gina M. Botwinick, Assistant City Attorney
•  Melissa K. Telles, Deputy City Attorney

Private Legal Representation Resources

The City Attorney’s office does not provide private legal advice to citizens. If you are seeking private legal representation, please contact the Ventura County Bar Association at (805) 650-7599.

To report a violation of State law, please contact:

Simi Valley Police Department
3901 Alamo Street
Simi Valley, CA 93063
(805) 583-6950

Or contact the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office:

Ventura County District Attorney’s Office
City Center: 5720 Ralston St UNIT 300
Ventura, CA 93003
(805) 662-1750

If you wish to file a claim with the City, please contact the City Clerk’s Office. You may also pick up a claim form in person at the City Clerk’s Office:

Simi Valley City Clerk’s Office
2929 Tapo Canyon Road
Simi Valley, CA 93063
(805) 583-6748

FAQs

Looking for more information? See our FAQ page for answers to your questions.

Contact

City Attorney
Tel: (805) 583-6714
cityattorney@simivalley.org