Rock Springs city attorney outlines legal office’s role in city operations

Rick Beckwith, Rock Springs city attorney, told residents the city’s legal office drafts ordinances and contracts, handles civil litigation and administrative and criminal matters tied to municipal ordinances, enforces city code (including zoning), and advises department heads.

Beckwith said his “position is defined by ordinance,” and that the office’s responsibilities include drafting all ordinances, reviewing and drafting contracts and conducting civil litigation on the city’s behalf. “One of the things the city attorney's office is responsible for is the reinforcement of all city ordinances,” he said, adding that much of the work is invisible to the public but essential to staff and operations.

Why it matters: The legal office’s work underpins routine city functions — from preparing agendas and resolutions to advising on employment law and responding to land- and environment-related disputes. Beckwith told listeners the office helps ensure documents placed before the council are legally sound and ready for action.

Beckwith emphasized that municipal practice differs from private practice, with a wide range of legal issues arriving at the city’s doorstep. He said he has practiced law for about 32 years and is in his 21st year with the city, and described examples of cases the office handles, including cemetery and graves disputes, mining and environmental issues. “If you're gonna go into government, be prepared to deal with just about anything,” he said.

The city attorney’s office also plays a role in agenda preparation, Beckwith said, drafting resolutions and reviewing contracts so department needs are met and matters are ready for council consideration. He noted the office runs administrative hearings and handles criminal matters that involve violations of municipal ordinances.

Beckwith described the office’s information resources and research tools as strong. “We have a great library at our disposal and we're able right now, to answer just about anything that comes before us,” he said, adding that the knowledge base helps the office advise on how the law affects the city.

Closing the conversation, Beckwith said serving as city attorney has been a highlight of his career: “Serving as the city attorney has probably been the greatest honor of my life. I've really loved my job here.” The exchange ended with expressions of appreciation; no formal motions or votes were recorded during this discussion.