City Council Meeting Date: July 7, 2026
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Jeff Schroepfer, Chief of Police
Title
Consider Approval of Contract for Civil Legal Services - Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs)
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council approves a Motion approving the attached Contract for Civil Legal Services - Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) with Eckberg Lammers, P.C.
Summary Report:
Minnesota law authorizes law enforcement agencies to petition the court for an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) when an individual poses a significant danger of causing bodily harm to self or others through possession of a firearm. ERPO proceedings require legal review, preparation of court filings, legal research, and representation during court hearings.
Historically, ERPO matters have been handled through the City's civil legal services attorney. Staff is recommending that responsibility for ERPO proceedings be assigned to Eckberg Lammers, the City's prosecuting attorney.
Although ERPO proceedings are civil matters under Minnesota law, they are initiated by law enforcement and frequently arise from incidents involving criminal investigations, domestic violence, threats of violence, mental health crises, and other public safety concerns. Due to the close relationship between ERPO proceedings and law enforcement operations, staff believes these matters align more appropriately with the services provided by the City's prosecuting attorney.
Eckberg Lammers works closely with the Northfield Police Department on criminal prosecutions, legal consultation, officer training, and court proceedings. Their familiarity with police operations, evidence, court processes, and public safety issues will provide greater continuity and efficiency when evaluating and pursuing ERPO petitions.
The proposed agreement provides legal representation at ERPO hearings, training, process development, legal research, drafting of documents and orders, appeals, an...
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