Charlotte, NC, October 4, 2025
News Summary
The Charlotte City Council has unanimously appointed Andrea Leslie-Fite as the new city attorney, effective November 3. With 18 years of experience in local government, Leslie-Fite will take over from interim attorney Anthony Fox, who has been serving since December amidst prior controversies surrounding the previous city attorney’s departure. Mayor Vi Lyles praised Leslie-Fite’s extensive legal background and her eagerness to address the city’s legal matters in her new role.
Charlotte has appointed Andrea Leslie-Fite as the new city attorney, effective November 3, 2023. Leslie-Fite, who currently serves as the Guilford County Attorney, brings 18 years of experience in local government roles to her new position.
The Charlotte City Council unanimously selected Leslie-Fite after a comprehensive selection process. Mayor Vi Lyles commended her extensive municipal experience and demonstrated passion for serving the city. Leslie-Fite has a notable background in legal roles, including her previous positions as city attorney for Shelby, N.C., and assistant county attorney for Cleveland County. Additionally, she has served as a senior assistant city attorney for Charlotte.
In her forthcoming role, Leslie-Fite will replace interim city attorney Anthony Fox, who was appointed temporarily in December amidst some controversy. Fox will receive an additional $56,000 for his extended contract until Leslie-Fite’s swearing-in. The previous city attorney, Patrick Baker, left under contentious circumstances related to a public records request, reportedly receiving a payout estimated at $230,000 upon his departure, although details of his severance were not confirmed by the city.
Leslie-Fite’s involvement in professional organizations further underscores her qualifications. She has served as president of the North Carolina Association of County Attorneys and is a member of both the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) and the Government and Public Sector Section of the North Carolina Bar Association.
Upon her appointment, Leslie-Fite expressed eagerness to return to Charlotte and collaborate closely with the city’s leadership team in addressing legal matters and contributing to the efficacy of local governance. While her salary details have yet to be disclosed, it is noteworthy that her predecessor’s last salary was approximately $297,143.36, plus benefits.
This appointment comes at a pivotal time for the city as it navigates changes in its legal team. The transition reflects a commitment to strong legal oversight and governance moving forward.
FAQ
Who has been appointed as the new city attorney for Charlotte?
Andrea Leslie-Fite has been appointed as the new city attorney for Charlotte, North Carolina.
When does Andrea Leslie-Fite officially start her role?
Her official start date will be November 3, 2023.
What are some of Leslie-Fite’s previous legal positions?
Previous positions include city attorney for Shelby, N.C., assistant county attorney for Cleveland County, and senior assistant city attorney for Charlotte.
How was Leslie-Fite selected for the position?
The Charlotte City Council unanimously selected Leslie-Fite for the position.
What are the circumstances surrounding the previous city attorney’s departure?
The previous city attorney, Patrick Baker, reportedly left under contentious circumstances related to a public records request, receiving a payout estimated at $230,000, although the details of his severance were not confirmed.
Summary of Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New City Attorney | Andrea Leslie-Fite |
| Official Start Date | November 3, 2023 |
| Current Position | Guilford County Attorney |
| Total Experience | 18 years |
| Previous Legal Positions | City attorney for Shelby, Assistant county attorney for Cleveland County, Senior assistant city attorney for Charlotte |
| City Council Decision | Unanimous selection |
| Interim City Attorney | Anthony Fox |
| Previous City Attorney | Patrick Baker |
| Estimated Payout for Baker | $230,000 |
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Charlotte’s New City Attorney
- Charlotte Observer: New City Attorney Announcement
- WSOC TV: City Council Hires New Attorney
- Yes! Weekly: City Attorney Retirement
- Spectrum News: Charlotte City Council Updates
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Google Search: Charlotte city attorney
- Google Scholar: Charlotte city government
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte
- Google News: Charlotte city attorney
Author: HERE Charlotte
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