CHANDLER, Ariz. — The Chandler City Council appointed Deryck R. Lavelle as City Attorney at the August 13 City Council meeting and today he begins that role to lead the city’s Law Department and serve as legal advisor to the City Council and municipal government.
Lavelle has more than 24 years of legal experience spanning municipal and county government, private practice and international law. His career has focused on public service, strategic legal counsel and collaborative leadership in support of effective, transparent government.
“Deryck brings a deep understanding of municipal operations, a strong public-service background and a practical approach to solving complex issues,” said Mayor Kevin Hartke. “His experience working across large, diverse organizations as well as his prior work in private practice and international law will be tremendous assets to Chandler. We are pleased to welcome him to our community.”
For the past 12 years, Lavelle has served the City of Phoenix, most recently as Chief Assistant City Attorney in the Phoenix Law Department. In that executive leadership position, he helped oversee one of Arizona’s largest municipal law departments and advised city leadership on matters involving governance, ethics, elections, economic development, litigation, risk management, public policy and real estate.
“I am honored by the City Council’s confidence and excited to join Chandler,” Lavelle said. “This community is recognized for innovation and commitment to strong city services. I look forward to working with the City Council, City Manager and Law Department to provide sound legal guidance and support the city’s continued success.”
Before joining Phoenix, Lavelle practiced civil litigation with Fennemore Craig, representing clients in complex commercial and civil matters. He also served as a Deputy County Attorney in the Civil Division of the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Earlier in his career, Lavelle supported the New York and Sydney, Australia, offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.
Lavelle earned a Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law, a Master of Arts with Distinction in International Law and Politics from the University of Hull in England, and a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
Chandler’s Law Department Drafts city ordinances and resolutions and provides written and verbal legal opinions to the City Council, City Manager, city departments, boards and commissions. It supports the city on legal matters including contracts and leases, development and zoning, public bidding and personnel matters. It also represents the city in legal proceedings for misdemeanor prosecution and for risk management claims administration, insurance and loss-prevention activities.