The City of Novi is a Council/Manager form of government, and the City Attorney is appointed by and reports directly to City Council. The City Attorney provides legal services to City Council, Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Administration, and as needed, City Boards and Commissions. The City Attorney works with the City Assessor on tax appeals and provides prosecution services for City Ordinance violations. In addition, the City Attorney represents the City in civil and criminal proceedings and serves as legal advisor to the City, its agencies and officials, and in some instances its employees. The City Attorney does not provide legal advice to members of the public.

As legal advisor, the City Attorney prepares documents and instruments, drafts ordinances, renders formal and informal opinions, reviews contracts and agreements, and performs other services as required by law.