Successor sought to oversee staff of 26
Tempe City Attorney Judith R. “Judi” Baumann is stepping down from her role after 14 years with the City of Tempe, including nearly nine as City Attorney, according to a press release issued on Feb. 7.
Baumann will remain with the city to assist with the transition through early May as the Council starts a search process to replace her. Meanwhile, current Deputy City Attorney Sonia Blain will serve as Interim City Attorney.
“It has been my professional honor to serve the City of Tempe,” Baumann said. “And, on a more personal note, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside outstanding colleagues in Tempe.”
Baumann currently oversees a staff of 26 organized into two divisions that handle all of the City’s civil and criminal matters. The Office handles litigation and criminal prosecution and advises the Mayor, City Council and City Departments.
Baumann’s biography on the City’s website states that prior to joining the Tempe City Attorney’s Office in 2008, she spent 15 years in private practice, handling both transactional and litigation matters. She has an undergraduate degree in history from Arizona State University and also graduated from its College of Law.
While in law school, Baumann and a colleague formed the Advocacy Program for Battered Women. She also was named Outstanding Graduate by the Women Law Students’ Association and Pro Bono Distinction.
According to the Tempe City Charter, the City Council has the authority to appoint four positions within the city organization: City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk and Presiding Judge of the Municipal Court.
“On behalf of the City Council, I sincerely thank Judi for her dedicated service to the City of Tempe and wish her the very best in her future endeavors,” said Mayor Corey Woods. “She is a consummate professional who has greatly contributed to our community through her legal expertise.”
