North Charlotte Today

Deputy City Attorney Lina James has been serving the Office of the City Attorney for 16 years, providing counsel on matters ranging from political conventions to negotiations with Spectrum Center. As an Indian American, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community throughout the year.

James describes her role: "I serve as Deputy City Attorney with the Office of the City Attorney. In this role, I work closely with the City Attorney, City Council, and senior leadership while leading four teams of attorneys. We advise and provide legal support to all city departments on their daily public safety, business, and operational needs."

Her experience spans both public and private sectors, having practiced criminal and civil law before joining the city. She finds representing Charlotte particularly engaging due to its significant impact on personal and professional lives.

"As the largest North Carolina municipal office, we have an obligation and responsibility to lead the way and raise the bar for how city attorneys’ offices can be of service to their city councils, their city administrations, and their larger communities," James notes. She highlights that innovation, creativity, and newer technology should be prioritized within legal frameworks to meet a growing city's needs.

James appreciates her unique position: “I can’t think of another office or area of law where you advise elected officials as well as managers, first responders, and field staff all in the same day.” Over her tenure, she has contributed to major projects such as the Hornets Arena and NASCAR Hall of Fame; advised through two national political conventions; redistricting; and provided counsel during COVID-19.

Reflecting on her cultural background, James mentions spending part of her childhood in Ethiopia which influences her culinary preferences towards Enat Ethiopian cuisine. She also enjoys Asian cuisine including dim sum and masala dosa.

Observing Charlotte's evolution into a global city, James expresses a desire for greater recognition of Asians' diverse experiences: "You don’t have to wait until May to eat at the restaurant you love that you pass by every day or go to the cultural festivals that happen year-round in our diverse neighborhoods."