Commonly Asked Questions of the Town Attorney:

Q: Can the Town Attorney represent or give advice to residents of the Town in legal matters or disputes?

A: No, by law the Town Attorney is the legal advisor to the Town. While it is the job of the Town Board to serve the residents of the town, the Town Attorney's job is to give legal advice to the Town Board, town officials, town departments, boards, and committees on governmental matters. The Town Attorney cannot offer you personal legal counsel.

Q: How can I find a lawyer to represent me?

A: The New York State Unified Court System offers a directory of lawyers in your area. Click here to link to the website or you can contact the Suffolk County Bar Association Lawyer Referral & Information Service at (631) 234-5577.

The Town Clerk is the official who is authorized to be served with legal papers against the town or its officials. All notices of claim should also be sent to her at PO Box 1549, Shelter Island, NY 11964.