Agenda - Council Work Session - 05/07/2013

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I have a subscription to LexisNexus legal research system, which I can access from any computer or mobile device. I also have a full library in my office, which includes complete set of Minnesota Statutes and Dunnell's Minnesota Legal Encyclopedia. CITY /CITY PROSECUTOR RELATIONSIIIP As a solo practitioner, all aspects of municipal prosecutor would be personally handled by me. I would be responsible for prosecuting all Ramsey criminal cases from initial charging, on through negotiation and jury trial (if any). I would also be the direct contact for all issues arising out of my contract. This ensures that you will receive consistently high quality services in every matter handled by my office. In all prosecution matters my utmost concern is for the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Ramsey. However, I do not engage in unnecessary and costly litigation of criminal cases unless absolutely necessary. All matters will be handled as efficiently as possible so long as such efficiency does not compromise public safety. As the Council is aware, I have nearly two year track record of providing outstanding prosecution services to the City. Normally prosecution services are handled without the direct involvement of the Council. However should the Council have a specific request, it is a standing policy of my law firm to respond to all direction or inquiries from clients by the end of business the same day. When for some reason that time frame is not possible, the requesting person would be so notified by a member of our staff and informed when a response will be received. In addition, I would be available to attend any and all City Council regular meetings, special meetings, work sessions and commission meetings as directed by the City Clerk. CLIENTS /CONFLICTS OF INTEREST Rule 1 .7 of the Rules of Professional Conduct would not permit an attorney to represent a client if the representation of that client would be directly adverse to another client. The only exception to this general rule is in the following situation: "The lawyer reasonably believes the representation will not adversely affect the relationship with the other client and each client consents after consultation." To the best of my knowledge, I do not have any client whose representation would conflict with our ability to provide legal services to the City of Ramsey. In the event there ever would be a conflict, I would either seek an express waiver of the conflict or assist in obtaining temporary, competent, and independent legal counsel to resolve the issue. COMPENSATION I propose that the fees for my legal services be billed on the number of hours worked or on a flat - fee retainer; whichever the Council prefers. The number of hours billed on a matter depends on the demands of the project and the complexities of the issue that arise. A flat -fee retainer would be based on the historical monthly average cost of providing those same services. I am committed to providing effective legal services on a cost effective and efficient basis. I recognize that this can be difficult to judge from a client's perspective; however, the City of Ramsey has had the opportunity to work with me as their prosecutor for and has experienced my commitment to the cost - effective delivery of legal services.