LAWTON, Okla. — The City of Lawton has been without a permanent City Attorney since the February 2025 resignation of John R. Andrew, as officials continue the search for a long-term replacement.
Andrew was appointed City Attorney on April 29, 2024, following a seven-month recruitment process. He resigned in February 2025, and Tim Wilson began serving as Acting City Attorney following Andrew’s departure.
The position became vacant during a period of leadership transition at City Hall. John Ratliff — who previously served as City Attorney — was appointed City Manager effective October 24, 2023, creating the opening that led to the City’s search for a new legal advisor.
In October 2025, the City Council appointed former Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Jari Askins to serve as Interim City Attorney while the City continues recruitment for a permanent hire. The Council has continued extending Askins’ interim agreement to maintain continuity of legal services during the ongoing search.
As of early 2026, Lawton has been without a permanent City Attorney for approximately one year.
The City Attorney serves as the chief legal advisor to the City Council and city administration, providing legal guidance on ordinances, contracts, and policy decisions and representing the City in legal matters.
The City Attorney is also one of four direct employees of the Lawton City Council, along with the City Manager, City Clerk, and Municipal Judge. Because the City Attorney reports directly to the Council rather than to the City Manager, the position is considered one of the City’s key leadership roles.
City officials have indicated the search for a permanent City Attorney remains ongoing, and no timeline for a permanent appointment has been publicly announced.
Lawton Town Crier will continue to follow the City’s search for a permanent City Attorney.
Background information for this report was compiled from City of Lawton records, City Council meetings, and previous news reporting.