Annapolis, Maryland, December 11, 2025
D. Michael Lyles, the City Attorney of Annapolis, has resigned following allegations that his office used artificial intelligence to fabricate a legal case citation. His departure has raised concerns regarding the integrity of legal filings within the city. Assistant City Attorney Kerry Berger has been appointed as Acting City Attorney during the transition, as the search for Lyles’ permanent replacement begins. This situation underscores the challenges faced by city officials in integrating emerging technologies into their operations.
Annapolis City Attorney Departs Amid AI-Related Allegations
Annapolis, Maryland – D. Michael Lyles, the City Attorney of Annapolis, has left his position effective immediately, following allegations that his office cited a fabricated case using artificial intelligence in a recent legal filing. The departure marks a significant shift in the city’s legal leadership.
Immediate Departure and Interim Leadership
Mayor Jared Littmann announced Lyles’ sudden departure, expressing gratitude for his six years of service. Assistant City Attorney Kerry Berger has been appointed as the Acting City Attorney to ensure continuity in legal services during the transition period.
Allegations of AI Misuse in Legal Filings
The controversy centers around a recent court filing in which Lyles’ office is accused of using artificial intelligence to generate a non-existent case citation. Reports indicate that the filing contained fabricated quotations and cited cases that do not exist, raising concerns about the integrity of the legal process. Lyles has categorically denied these allegations, asserting that he was dismissed prior to the emergence of these claims and was unaware of the specifics. He has expressed confidence that new leadership will effectively defend the city’s legal position.
Background on the Office of Law
The Office of Law, led by the City Attorney, provides vital legal guidance to the Mayor, City Council, and all city departments and agencies. This office plays a crucial role in drafting legislation, ensuring compliance, and prosecuting municipal infractions. Its responsibilities extend to managing complex litigation and offering legal advisory services, all of which contribute to the smooth governance and operations of the city.
Next Steps and Recruitment for New City Attorney
In light of Lyles’ departure, Mayor Littmann has tasked the city’s Human Resources Department with initiating a search for a permanent City Attorney. The focus of this recruitment process will be on securing a candidate with robust experience in municipal law and public sector leadership to navigate the city through complex legal and regulatory challenges.
Conclusion
The unexpected departure of Annapolis’ City Attorney amid allegations involving artificial intelligence highlights the challenges city officials face as they integrate emerging technologies into essential functions. As Annapolis moves forward, the focus will now be on maintaining integrity in its legal processes and facilitating a seamless transition in leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the departure of Annapolis City Attorney D. Michael Lyles?
D. Michael Lyles left his position effective immediately following allegations that his office cited a fabricated case using artificial intelligence in a recent legal filing. Sources suggest that the filing contained fabricated quotations and cited cases that do not exist, raising concerns about the integrity of the legal process. Lyles has denied these allegations, stating that he was dismissed prior to the emergence of these claims and was unaware of the specific allegations. He expressed confidence that the new leadership would continue to defend the city’s legal position effectively in all courts.
Who is leading the Office of Law after Lyles’ departure?
Assistant City Attorney Kerry Berger has been appointed as the Acting City Attorney to ensure continuity in legal services during the transition period.
What is the role of the Office of Law in Annapolis?
The Office of Law, led by the City Attorney, provides legal guidance to the Mayor, City Council, and all city departments and agencies. Its responsibilities include drafting legislation, advising on compliance matters, and prosecuting municipal infractions. The office also manages complex litigation and legal advisory work, playing a crucial role in the city’s governance and operations.
What steps is the city taking to find a new City Attorney?
Following Lyles’ departure, Mayor Littmann has directed the city’s Human Resources Department to initiate a search for a permanent City Attorney. The recruitment process aims to find a candidate with significant experience in municipal law and public sector leadership to guide the city through complex legal and regulatory issues.
Key Features of the Annapolis City Attorney’s Office
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Led by the City Attorney, currently serving as Acting City Attorney Kerry Berger. |
| Responsibilities | Provides legal guidance to the Mayor, City Council, and all city departments and agencies; drafts legislation; advises on compliance matters; prosecutes municipal infractions; manages complex litigation and legal advisory work. |
| Recent Controversy | Allegations that the office cited a fabricated case using artificial intelligence in a recent legal filing, raising concerns about the integrity of the legal process. |
| Current Status | Acting City Attorney Kerry Berger is leading the office during the transition period; a search for a permanent City Attorney is underway. |
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