F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the City Attorney's Office provide legal advice to private citizens?
A: No. The City Attorney's client is the City of Burlington. 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 Burlington Prosecuting Attorney handles only the prosecution of criminal misdemeanors, gross
misdemeanors and infractions committed within the city limits of Burlington. The Skagit County
Prosecutors Office contains both civil and criminal functions and handles the prosecution of felony cases,
misdemeanors that occur outside the city limits of Burlington and all juvenile cases.
Q: Where can I get a copy of a city ordinance or resolution?
A: Copies of all City ordinances or resolutions are available upon request at the Finance Department
(755-0531) or the City Attorney's office. This site also carries the Burlington Municipal Code which
contains codified ordinances. You can also find a copy of the Municipal Code in the Burlington Public
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 this office with any
substantiating documents, including but not limited to, damage estimates, photographs, incident reports,
medical bills, etc. PLEASE MAKE NECESSARY COPIES PRIOR TO SUBMITTAL.
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 authority pool (Washington
Cities Insurance Authority). They will proceed with an investigation of the claim and respond to claimant
directly regardless of whether the claim has been accepted or will be denied.