L.A. city attorney's role could be weakened under charter reform proposal

The Charter Reform Commission recommends dividing the city attorney’s office into two roles: an elected city prosecutor for criminal misdemeanors and a mayor-appointed, City Council-confirmed city attorney for civil representation and advising the mayor, council, and departments. The City Council is reviewing the proposal alongside broader governance changes, including expanding council membership from 15 to 25 seats, potentially appearing on the Nov. 3 general election ballot. The proposal is occurring during a primary where incumbent Hydee Feldstein Soto faces three challengers, including a state deputy attorney general and a deputy district attorney. Challengers attribute the bifurcation plan to conflicts between Feldstein Soto and the City Council. Council members cite frustration over rising outside law firm costs, with payouts nearing $7.5 million and some attorneys billing about $1,300 per hour. Feldstein Soto denies the claims, calling them “political opportunism.”

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