POLICE Department

Office of Legal Services

The Office of Legal Services provides general legal counsel and representation to the Chief of Police and the Command Staff across a wide variety of subjects and areas related to the operations of HPD. The Office of Legal Services conducts research; prepares memoranda; drafts, reviews and revises ordinances, policies and procedures; and prepares contracts. The Office plays a significant role in reviewing and proposing both state and federal legislation impacting the department and the city.

The Office of Legal Services includes the Video Records Unit (VRU). In coordination with the City of Houston Legal Department, the Office of Legal Services also handles labor and employment issues. It ensures that the HPD investigative and disciplinary processes comply with federal and state law, city and department policy and the meet and confer agreement. Legal Services also works in conjunction with City Legal in the handling of administrative complaints and civil litigation involving the department. The Office also serves as the liaison with HPD’s criminal justice partners, including the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.