Oakland City Attorney's Office
John Burke is an experienced attorney currently serving at the Oakland City Attorney's Office since November 2022. Prior to this role, John held several significant positions, including Shareholder at Bishop | Barry from 2008 to November 2022, Partner at Jackson & Wallace from 2004 to 2008, and Partner at Bruen & Burke from 2002 to 2003. Earlier in their career, John was an Associate at Bruen & Gordon from 1999 to 2002 and Senior Counsel/Associate at Brobeck, Phleger & Harrison from 1990 to 1998. Academic qualifications include a JD in Law from the University of San Francisco (1987 - 1990) and a BS in Biochemistry, Cum Laude, from San Francisco State University (1977 - 1982).
Oakland City Attorney's Office
The Office of the City Attorney defends Oakland’s interests and resources in court and initiates legal action to secure justice and protect the rights of Oakland taxpayers and residents. We draft and review ordinances and resolutions and sponsor legislation along with members of the City Council. We aggressively and strategically negotiate major agreements, approve as to form and legality all contracts and help to shape Oakland’s policies. And we provide expert legal advice to City leaders and officials including the Mayor, City Council, City Auditor, City Administrator and City departments, boards and commissions.