Law

The Law Department is responsible for providing legal representation and advice to the City and its officials in numerous areas of law including but not limited to: zoning, environmental, employment, civil rights, contracts, tax, real estate and torts involving personal injury and property damage claims. Members of the legal staff also regularly attend and provide advice at meetings of the City Council and sub-committees thereof and to City boards and commissions. In addition to drafting ordinances and other legal documents, numerous verbal and written opinions are rendered to the City Manager, Mayor, City Council, and Department Heads.

Tips and FAQs

How do I get legal assistance?

The Cambridge Law Department does not render legal service to the public. You can contact one of the following agencies:

Boston Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
16 Beacon Street
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 742-0625

Massachusetts Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
20 West Street
Boston, MA 02111-1218
Phone: 1-800-392-6164

Greater Boston Legal Service
60 Gore Street, Suite 203
Cambridge, MA 02141
Phone: (617) 603-2700

Community Legal Services and Counseling Center
One West Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: (617) 661-1010

Who is the Public Records Access for the City?

Pursuant to the Public Records Law (G.L. c. 66, section 6A) the City Manager has designated Maureen Vilanova as the Public Records Access for the City of Cambridge.

Her contact information is:

Maureen Vilanova
Public Records Access

City of Cambridge
Law Department
City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139

(617) 349-4121
mvilanova@cambridgema.gov

How can I obtain a copy of an ordinance?

You can contact the Office of the City Clerk located on the first floor of City Hall for a copy of an ordinance and a copy of the municipal code or view the Municipal Code here.

Can I get an interpretation?

The Law Department does not provide interpretations and suggests consulting with a private attorney.

Whom should I contact for information on worker's compensation?

For Cambridge employees, contact the Claims Manager in the Personnel Department at (617)-349-4125.

Whom should I contact for information on discrimination

You can contact:

The Cambridge Human Rights Commission (617)-349-4396
The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (617)-994-6000 or www.mass.gov/mcad/index.html

Whom should I contact for information on labor disputes?