The Office of the County Counsel provides legal advice only to the Board of Supervisors, elected officials, and County of Kern employees for matters related to the operation and management of the County.

The process of collecting damages from the County is started by filing a claim with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, located at the County Administration Building, 5th Floor, Bakersfield, California 93301, (661) 868-3585. Download instructions for filing a claim or they can also be obtained from the General Liability office. You may also contact Ms. MaryClaire Walsh who is the Liability Claims Adjuster in the Office of County Counsel at 661-868-3867.

The law regarding claims against public entities is complex and has short deadlines. You may need to seek the services of an attorney for your own protection. You should present your claim without delay.

For additional information, please reference Government Code Section 910.

For taxes owed, call Deputy County Counsel, Jeremy McNutt at (661) 868-3879. For all other questions, contact Chief Deputy County Counsel, Kathleen Rivera at (661) 868-3810 .

The Office of the County Counsel is not the official custodian of any records of the County of Kern. You should inquire directly at the office or location where you believe the records are maintained, or contact the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors at (661) 868-3585.

The County Ordinance Codes can also be obtained online or from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, located at 1115 Truxtun Avenue, 5th Floor. Their phone number is (661) 868-3585.

Kendra L. Graham is the County Counsel and her name appears on all the documents filed by anyone in the office. The person most familiar with your case is usually the one who signed the document. That person's name appears beneath Ms.Graham's name at the top of the document, and beneath the signature itself. If you believe you must speak with someone regarding your matter, that is the person to whom you should speak with first. If you wish to speak to Ms.Graham, you may contact her at (661) 868-3810.