The nature of the City Attorney's work is not well understood by the community at-large. Many citizens believe that the City Attorney serves as the attorney for the community rather than for a municipal corporation. The City Attorney serves as legal advisor and attorney for the City of Gulfport,as a government entity. Because of the nature of the City Attorney's role,the office cannot represent or provide legal advice to individual citizens,groups or other entities. The office is responsible for providing legal assistance and representation for the city and its boards and commissions.

The office advises the mayor, CAO, City Council, department directors and other city employees; oversees the prosecution of misdemeanor complaints; serves as legal counsel during City Council meetings; supports the legislative and administrative processes involving ordinances, contracts, legal research, legal opinions and litigation; and represents the city's legal interests and defends its rights before all judicial, legislative and administrative tribunals.